Food shortages due to severe drought, lack of money, displacement of people, the Covid-19 pandemic and paralyzed health services affect the Afghan population of 18 million in need of humanitarian aid, Ariana news agency stressed this Friday.

Alexander Matheou, director of the International Red Cross for Asia-Pacific, said that after decades of conflict, Afghans are now facing a severe drought, which has devastated food production and left millions of people hungry and helpless.

We are deeply concerned that health funding has been cut down across the country, increasing the demand for Red Crescent teams, Matheou added.

Urgent international action is needed to help millions of people with the basic needs, as the harsh winter coming threatens to bring more misery and hardship, he said.

Matheou added that the Afghan Red Crescent is providing support in some of the most affected provinces, including supplies to families suffering from food shortages and loss of income.

The funds will be used to help with sustainable water supply, revitalization of livestock and crops, while supporting income promotion for those most at risk, such as women and the elderly, Matheou said.

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