Hospitals and health facilities across Afghanistan are reportedly struggling to cope with a sharp increase in severe child malnutrition, with UNICEF warning that urgent action is needed to save vulnerable children.
According to a report by ONU Info, UNICEF estimates that approximately one million children in Afghanistan are suffering from severe acute malnutrition and face serious health risks without timely treatment. The growing number of severely malnourished children is placing extraordinary pressure on already overstretched healthcare facilities.
The situation is particularly critical in southern Afghanistan, where some regional hospitals are reportedly accommodating three to four malnourished children for every available bed. Health workers are facing difficulties providing adequate treatment as facilities struggle with limited space and resources.
Severe acute malnutrition can significantly weaken a child’s immune system and increase the risk of serious illness and death if treatment is delayed. UNICEF has emphasized the need for urgent humanitarian assistance and increased support for health and nutrition services.
Afghanistan continues to face a prolonged humanitarian crisis marked by poverty, food insecurity, unemployment and limited access to essential healthcare. Children are among the most vulnerable groups affected by these conditions.
The reported surge in malnutrition highlights the urgent need for sustained international funding, nutrition programs and expanded healthcare capacity. Without sufficient resources, hospitals and clinics may struggle to respond to the growing number of children requiring lifesaving treatment.
UNICEF and humanitarian partners continue to call for increased support to protect Afghan children and prevent severe malnutrition from becoming fatal.