Afghanistan faces some of the harshest winters in the world, profoundly impacting children. Temperatures often plunge below -30°C, creating life-threatening conditions.
Heavy snowfall and treacherous road conditions isolate remote communities for months, making access to vital services such as education and healthcare nearly impossible. For decades, UNICEF has been on the ground, offering comprehensive support, including life-saving winter assistance to protect vulnerable families and children.
Winter in Afghanistan: an extreme challenge
The risks for children
- Respiratory Illnesses: A sharp rise due to poorly insulated housing.
- Malnutrition: Limited access to essential food worsens the nutritional crisis.
- Social Consequences: Families face devastating survival choices, such as child labor and early marriages.
Winter deepens Afghanistan’s crisis
The extreme cold compounds an already dire economic and humanitarian situation. Families already weakened by natural disasters, conflict, and displacement are left struggling to survive.
Many Afghan refugees returning from neighboring countries like Pakistan and Iran arrive without resources, worsening the crisis. Limited access to nutritious food heightens health risks, particularly for children.
UNICEF’s Winter Aid
UNICEF delivers winter kits to even the most remote regions. These kits include warm clothing for children and adults, as well as blankets for entire families. Since 2022, UNICEF has distributed over 32,750 winter kits across Afghanistan, helping children stay warm and survive the harsh winter.
To address the surge in infections during colder months, UNICEF also ensures access to essential medical care. We supply health centers with critical medicines to effectively treat acute respiratory illnesses.
Help us keep children warm!
