Japan provides $2 million to World Bank's Afghanistan fund, $4 million to WFP

Japan has signed an agreement worth $2.08 million with the World Bank to support humanitarian programs in Afghanistan through the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund, a multi-donor mechanism managed by the bank that finances basic services and development initiatives, according to a statement from Japan.

The funding aims to assist vulnerable people, including women and youth, by strengthening livelihood opportunities. "Japan stands with the people of Afghanistan," the statement said. Amu TV reported the exact figure as $2.08 million, while the Japanese Embassy announcement cited by Khaama Press referred to more than $2 million for essential services and development programs targeting vulnerable populations, including women and children.

Separately, the World Food Programme announced a $4 million contribution from Japan to fund emergency food assistance and nutrition support across Afghanistan. The aid will provide life-saving food to about 80,000 Afghans over 12 months, prioritizing families in vulnerable and hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, specialized nutritional services will reach around 30,000 mothers and young children to prevent and treat malnutrition.

"This support will help save lives and prevent the spread of hunger," the WFP said, noting that sustained international assistance is critical amid widespread poverty and limited healthcare access.

Japan has been a major humanitarian donor to Afghanistan, pledging around $20 million in assistance for 2026, according to officials cited by Khaama Press. The country faces a severe economic crisis following the Taliban takeover in 2021, exacerbated by international sanctions and reduced foreign aid, leaving millions dependent on humanitarian support and job opportunities curtailed, particularly for women.