The United Nations Population Fund in Afghanistan received US$1.5 million in additional funding from the Government of Japan to bolster efforts in addressing the maternal, reproductive, child and youth health, and psychosocial needs of underserved communities in the provinces of Kandahar, Faryab, and Nangarhar.

The funding comes at a pivotal time as Afghanistan continues to grapple with a growing protracted humanitarian crisis. More than half the population requires humanitarian assistance, including around 17 million people in urgent need of health services, according to the (Afghanistan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2025). The one-year project will ensure that around 60,000 women, girls, and children under five will have access to lifesaving services such as reproductive, maternal, neonatal, and child health care, as well as psychosocial support.

"We are grateful for the supplementary contribution from the Government of Japan that will enable UNFPA to deliver integrated and inclusive health services to the most vulnerable. At a time when Afghan women and girls face unprecedented challenges, this funding reaffirms our shared commitment to safeguarding their health, dignity, and well-being,” said Kwabena Asante-Ntiamoah, UNFPA Representative in Afghanistan.

The key interventions under the project will include operational support for 20 Family Health Houses in Kandahar and Faryab provinces to provide antenatal care, safe delivery, birth spacing, and child health services. It will also support two Mother and Child Health Centers in Nangarhar, offering reproductive health, psychosocial support, and vocational skills training. UNFPA will distribute Mother & Baby Kits and Dignity Kits for women and girls in need. The funding will support capacity building for female healthcare workers to provide high-quality care.