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FAST FACTS
Since October 2025, rising Pakistan–Afghanistan tensions have driven large numbers of returnees into northern Afghanistan, overwhelming local services. In Chawk-e-Omary camp, Kunduz province, an estimated 400 families face urgent needs around health, winterization, and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH).
OUR FOOTPRINT
International Medical Corps has been operating in Afghanistan since 1984, providing primary and secondary healthcare, training, health education, emergency response, mental health and psychosocial support, nutrition,
protection, community empowerment and WASH services.
OUR RESPONSE
On January 14, International Medical Corps deployed a mobile health team at Chawk‑e‑Omary camp, and has so far delivered 145 consultations and key referrals.
SITUATION UPDATE
Since October 2025, ongoing tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have triggered a substantial influx of Afghan returnees into northern Afghanistan, particularly Kunduz province and nearby areas. In 2025 alone, nearly 932,000 people returned from Pakistan. Many families are arriving with limited shelter, resources and documentation, placing significant strain on already stretched public services. Conditions in the camp are dire: children lack proper clothing to protect them from the cold weather, healthcare services are not accessible, and facilities for proper water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) are limited. Immediate needs include emergency healthcare, particularly for respiratory infections and diarrheal illnesses; maternal health; access to safe water and sanitation services; hygiene supplies; and winterization assistance. As winter intensifies, inadequate housing and heating have increased exposure to cold-related risks, which are further compounded by food insecurity and severe economic hardship.
International Medical Corps first conducted a field visit to Chawk-e-Omary camp, where returnees have been settled in Kunduz province, in late November to review urgent priorities and operational requirements. At the time, the camp accommodated approximately 200 families; this figure has since doubled to an estimated 400 families. Coordination discussions with the Provincial Public Health Directorate, the Department of Refugees and Repatriation, the Emergency Shelter and Non-Food Items Cluster, and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs validated the severity of the needs and supported an International Medical Corps response to address health, WASH and winterization priorities.