Afghanistan - Emergency Earthquakes Response - WFP 2023

October 2023 – Afghanistan is facing overlapping unforeseen challenges which have exacerbated humanitarian needs. Between October 7 and 15 Herat Province in Afghanistan was struck by four 6.3 magnitude earthquakes resulting in nearly 1 500 fatalities and exacerbating high levels of pre-existing humanitarian needs in the region. Nearly 43 400 people were directly affected by the earthquakes with Injil and Zinjadin districts worst affected. In addition a sharp increase in Afghan returnees at the outset of the lean winter season is further adding to the multiple layers of vulnerabilities in affected communities. With Global Affairs Canada’s support the World Food Programme (WFP) is providing lifesaving food assistance to earthquake-affected people in Afghanistan. Project activities include: (1) providing emergency food assistance for vulnerable Afghans including women and girls; and (2) providing logistics support including transportation for the broader United Nations humanitarian response.

The expected outcome for this project includes increased access to food assistance for crisis-affected populations in Afghanistan. The expected ultimate outcome is lives saved suffering alleviated and human dignity maintained in countries experiencing humanitarian crises.