Canadian Foodgrains Bank is deeply saddened by the news of the powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake that struck eastern Afghanistan on August 31 and the aftershocks that followed, claiming over 2,200 lives, injuring thousands more, and destroying more than 6,700 homes.
Our thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones and with the communities now facing a long road of recovery after the widespread devastation.
This disaster has struck a country already grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis. Millions of Afghans are living in extreme poverty and food insecurity. The earthquake has compounded this suffering shortly before the difficult winter season, wiping out homes, cutting off access to essential services, and leaving families in desperate need of shelter, clean water, and medical care.
“Afghanistan was already facing a severe humanitarian emergency, now compounded by this latest disaster,” says Andy Harrington, Canadian Foodgrains Bank executive director. “The earthquake has not only taken lives – it has deepened the barriers to survival for those who were already living in crisis, and will require a significant response from the international community.”
Access for humanitarian partners remains difficult due to the mountainous landscape of the affected areas, and needs are overwhelming. Emergency shelter, food, clean water, and medical supplies are urgently required.
The situation is especially dire for children, many of whom have been killed or injured, and for families who remain trapped under rubble or displaced without support.
We urge the global community to act quickly and compassionately to prevent further loss of life.
To support the efforts of Foodgrains Bank members that are raising funds for local partners in Afghanistan, click below:
