WFP: One-Third of Afghanistan’s Population Faces Hunger

The World Food Programme (WFP) has raised concerns over the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan, stating that nearly one-third of the country’s population is grappling with hunger.

WFP estimates Afghanistan’s population to be around 46 million and says it urgently needs $451 million in funding to continue supporting vulnerable families over the next six months.

At the same time, many laborers and street vendors in the capital voiced worries about the worsening poverty and unemployment, saying they struggle to feed their families.

Wahid, a 23-year-old who runs a small street stand in Kabul, is among thousands of informal vendors compelled to work daily due to lack of job opportunities and economic support.

Wahid told : “I’m not being ungrateful, but I can only earn enough to cover basic household expenses like potatoes, onions, and dry bread.”

Mukhtar, a laborer in Kabul, said: “There is very little work. Many people are unemployed.”

Abdul Nasir Reshtia, an economic analyst, told : “Humanitarian aid, in general, doesn’t have high economic effectiveness—it can only temporarily alleviate poverty. However, if economic aid is channeled into development projects, it can have a more significant impact.”

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Economy said it is working on several projects to improve the country’s economic conditions.

Abdul Latif Nazari, deputy minister of economy, stated: “The international community must continue its assistance to the Afghan people. The Islamic Emirate is also prioritizing employment and infrastructure projects.”

Following the halt of US and other international aid after recent political changes, many global organizations have warned of escalating poverty, unemployment, and hunger in Afghanistan.