European Union in Afghanistan Announced an additional €35 million to tackle the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and mitigate its negative economic impacts in the country.
According to the EU in Afghanistan statement, since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, the European Union mobilized €147 million to immediately provide humanitarian support during the health crises.
“The pandemic has exacerbated an already grim situation in Afghanistan, creating even bigger needs in a country for decades plagued by war. Together with partners and in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan, the EU’s contribution aims to support those who suffer the most from this crisis. The three projects launched today will contribute to this further” says EU Ambassador Andreas Von Brandt.
The additional 35 euros will contribute to strengthening the response capacity of the health system, tests and treatments of the patients, improve infection preventions, raise awareness and reduce nutritional risks, through three projects implemented by World Health Organization, UNICEF, and a consortium led by Aga Khan Foundation.
“ As preparation for vaccine rollout signals new hope in Afghanistan’s fight against COVID19, continued investment in testing, surveillance, clinical care, protection of health workers and essential health services remains vital for containing the spread of the virus in addition to offering quality medical care,” David Lai, Officer in Charge at the WHO said.
The EU stated that import restrictions and widespread unemployment have worsened food insecurity, and through the support of the EU and its partners 300 000 children and their mothers will also receive community nutrition services.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has put additional strain on the already weak health system and worsened underlying health and gender vulnerabilities. This generous EU funding will allow UNICEF to respond quickly to this secondary wave of challenges which profoundly affects the health and safety of children and women,” said Sheema Sen Gupta, Representative of UNICEF Afghanistan.
According to the EU statement, Import restrictions, unemployment have worsened food insecurity and through this support, 300,000 children and their mothers will receive community nutrition services.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has put additional strain on the already weak health system and worsened underlying health and gender vulnerabilities. This generous EU funding will allow UNICEF to respond quickly to this secondary wave of challenges which profoundly affects the health and safety of children and women” said Sheema Sen Gupta, Representative a.i, UNICEF Afghanistan.
Projects conducted by UNICEF and The AGA khan led consortium includes, actions to mitigate women’s children’s and teenager’s vulnerability to various forms of gender-based violence that includes domestic violence.
Sheherazade Hirji, Aga Khan Development Network Diplomatic Representative was quoted in the EU statement saying, “With the support of the EU, the Aga Khan Foundation led consortium with Cordaid will reach 8.4 million direct and indirect beneficiaries in 16 provinces,”.
