Afghanistan needs urgent financial assistance to overcome the risk on deadly hunger, charities said at a meeting of G20 leaders in Rome.
Sixteen charities have written a joint letter warning of drought and conflict in a war-torn country, along with the complete collapse of the domestic banking system, which could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe.
To prevent such an outcome, charities must create “secure and efficient payment channels” that allow for the urgent supply of food and other assistance.
The UN report states a 37% increase in acute hunger in Afghanistan since April – the highest level in ten years. More than 3.2 million children under the age of 5 are also at high risk.
Amanda Hozi Mukwashi, CEO of Christian Aid, said the charity “has been working with partners in Afghanistan for more than 30 years. We continue to fight, but the collapse of the banking system has shed light on what remains unlikely. “
She added:” Every minute of waiting for the actions of G20 members is another threat to the lives of innocent people. World leaders must stop playing politics with people's lives. If they don't, millions will be in danger. “
Subrata De, Christian Aid Afghanistan's manager, said:” We are doing everything we can to distribute food and essentials, but we are not able to implement it effectively. . humanitarian programs without a functioning banking system.
“The situation is desperate, people remain without wages and many are resorting to selling something to buy food.”
The joint letter reads: materials and people either simply cannot afford to buy basic necessities or have little or no access to the money they need to purchase them.
“The situation is so desperate that many Afghans have sold their last assets and some are resorting to desperate coping strategies, such as child marriage.”
“NGOs have been operating in Afghanistan for decades. , including the previous Taliban government. Our teams know how to ensure direct delivery of help to those who need it most.
“Without a functioning economy and banking system, we are still limited by our capabilities.
“Mandatory urgent international leadership. G20 members must now act to ensure that cash is returned to Afghanistan through the banking system – inaction punishes the Afghan people for Taliban actions. “