The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned that Afghanistan’s “Shelter, Land and Site Coordination” response program is facing a major funding shortfall of $153 million.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, August 26, OCHA said the program had requested $160 million in funding for the current year. However, only 4.7 percent of the required amount has been received so far, leaving the humanitarian response significantly underfunded.
The funding gap raises concerns about the program’s ability to provide adequate shelter-related assistance and support to vulnerable communities across Afghanistan. Humanitarian programs in the country continue to face significant financial pressures as needs remain high and available international funding declines.
The Shelter, Land and Site Coordination program plays an important role in supporting people affected by displacement, conflict and other humanitarian challenges. Adequate funding is essential to ensure that vulnerable families can access safe shelter and appropriate living conditions.
OCHA’s latest warning highlights the growing gap between humanitarian needs in Afghanistan and the resources available to address them. With only a small fraction of the requested funding received, humanitarian agencies may face difficulties maintaining essential assistance and responding effectively to emerging needs.
The United Nations continues to appeal for greater international support for humanitarian operations in Afghanistan, particularly as millions of people remain dependent on humanitarian assistance.
The $153 million funding shortfall underscores the scale of the financial challenges facing Afghanistan’s humanitarian sector and the urgent need for additional donor contributions.