International aid agency Tearfund Australia has launched an emergency appeal to support its partners in Afghanistan.
Tearfund Australia has been working with its partners on the ground in Afghanistan for the past 40 years; partners who are now preparing to deliver life-saving aid to people affected by the worsening humanitarian situation.
Recent and escalating conflict, along with chronic drought, food insecurity and poverty, have forced hundreds of thousands of Afghans from their homes and communities, and increased levels of vulnerability for people across the country.
As a result:
- 18 million people need humanitarian assistance
- 75 per cent of people in need are women and children
- 3.1 million children suffer from acute malnutrition
“The images and stories we have all seen coming out of Afghanistan are heartbreaking,” says Tearfund CEO Matthew Maury. “Our partners are actively putting plans in place to respond to the many needs Afghans are facing.”
The humanitarian work of Tearfund in Afghanistan has included maternal and mental health care, education for both children and adults, projects to improve hygiene and sanitation, and support to help local people enjoy greater food security and earn an income. Of late they have also been working with the growing number of internally displaced people. This work is temporarily on hold due to the unfolding political crisis in Afghanistan.
Mr Maury said: “Over the past two weeks, Tearfund staff have been working with our local partners to ensure the safety and security of the local staff, and this work remains ongoing. At the same time, we are preparing for the uncertainty and challenges that lie ahead. The needs are immense, as are the opportunities to work for a future with peace and stability. It is upon this hope that we all persevere.”
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Tearfund Australia works in partnership with local Christian agencies to end poverty, challenge inequality and build sustainable communities. Donate here: https://www.tearfund.org.au/afghanistan
