The United Nations Children’s Fund says around 22.9 million people in Afghanistan, including 12 million children, nearly half of the population, require humanitarian assistance.

UNICEF said a combination of climate shocks, ongoing economic stagnation, and rising unemployment has significantly increased humanitarian needs across the country.

According to a report, extreme weather events, including recurring droughts and floods, have compounded existing vulnerabilities, deepening food shortages and placing additional pressure on limited public services in both cities and rural areas.

UNICEF also highlighted serious funding constraints, particularly in the water and sanitation, health, and nutrition sectors.

These shortages have affected service delivery and heightened concerns over possible interruptions in the supply of essential life-saving materials.

(Xinhua/NAN)