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Afghanistan

Afghanistan: Humanitarian Crisis Operation Update #9 Emergency Appeal no. MDRAF007

Attachments

As of 30 September 2023, this Emergency Appeal (MDRAF007) seeks CHF 120 million overall and is currently 36 per cent funded. Further funding contributions are needed to enable the Afghan Red Crescent Society, with the support of the IFRC, to continue with humanitarian assistance and protection needs of the affected population

The Emergency Appeal was revised two months later (in October 2023) following the fifth revision (in August 2023) due to the devastating earthquakes in western Afghanistan. These earthquakes created urgent humanitarian needs, including health, food, shelter, cash assistance, mental health, and psychosocial support (PSS), water, sanitation and hygiene, and protection for orphaned children and widowed women. The Operational Strategy for Herat Earthquakes outlines the needs and approach for delivering assistance.

In the latest sixth revision, the IFRC Secretariat is not increasing funding requirements. The response to the Herat Earthquakes is incorporated into the funding requirements established in the August 2023 revision. This approach aligns with the framework outlined in the previous revision, focusing on delivering urgent humanitarian assistance and addressing recovery needs. However, a separate Operational Strategy for the Herat earthquakes has been prepared to earmark funds, identify donor assistance needs, and streamline monitoring, evaluation, and reporting.

SITUATION ANALYSIS

Description of the crisis

Humanitarian needs in Afghanistan are driven by multiple factors: drought, climate disasters, protection issues (especially for women and girls), economic hardships, and limited access to essential services. Urgent investments are needed in water infrastructure, sustainable agriculture, alternative livelihoods, gender policy reform, and macroeconomic stability to prevent further deterioration. Stabilizing essential services like healthcare and social services is crucial to reduce dependence on humanitarian aid and promote long-term support. The situation has been exacerbated by the frequency of disasters, including floods and earthquake.