Afghan Healthcare Crisis

The healthcare system in Afghanistan is facing an unprecedented crisis, exacerbated by the abrupt cessation of US aid and the Taliban's stringent policies. Over 400 medical facilities have shut down, leaving many rural areas without access to essential healthcare services.

The impact is particularly devastating for maternal and newborn health. In Badakhshan province, the closure of a USAID-supported clinic led to the tragic deaths of Shahnaz and her newborn, who were forced to deliver by the roadside when they found the clinic closed. Similar heart-wrenching stories are emerging across the country.

The situation is further compounded by the Taliban's restrictions on women's education and employment. The ban on higher education for women and the recent prohibition of midwifery and nursing training have created a severe shortage of qualified female healthcare providers. This not only limits women's career opportunities but also jeopardizes the health of countless mothers and babies.

In urban centers, hospitals are grappling with severe overcrowding and budget cuts. The maternity ward of Faizabad's main hospital now accommodates three times its capacity, with multiple patients sharing single beds. The hospital's annual budget has been slashed by nearly 70%, severely compromising the quality of care.