Disabled Individuals in Afghanistan Raise Concerns Over Insufficient Allowances

Disabled individuals in Kabul are expressing concern over recent changes to disability allowances, stating that current monthly stipends are insufficient to cover basic living expenses amid rising prices. Beneficiaries report that payments of approximately 9,000 Afghanis per month no longer meet the cost of essential goods, prompting calls for increased financial support from both domestic authorities and international donors.

In response to these concerns, the Ministry of Martyrs and Disabled Affairs outlined its recent funding allocations. Ministry spokesperson Faisal Khamosh stated that the government allocated 12.6 billion Afghanis from the national budget, alongside 10 million U.S. dollars from foreign organizations, during the last solar year to support disabled individuals, orphans, and widows. Khamosh explained that stipend amounts are determined by the type and severity of disability, noting that while some recipients have seen their payments increased, others have experienced reductions based on updated assessments.

According to ministry records, approximately 600,000 disabled individuals, orphans, and widows are currently registered in the national database. Despite the reported budget allocations, beneficiaries maintain that the current financial assistance does not adequately address their daily needs. Advocates and recipients continue to urge authorities to review the stipend structure and expand support mechanisms to better align with current economic conditions. The ministry has not announced any immediate changes to the payment schedule or distribution criteria.