Kabul Residents Face Poverty and Hardship, Seek Aid; Economy Ministry Outlines Relief Plans

Residents of Kabul have described how poverty and economic hardship are complicating their daily lives, calling for humanitarian assistance.

Mirza Mohammad, a 65-year-old head of a three-member family and sole breadwinner, said he earns only 50 afghanis daily despite injured feet from a fall, struggling to cover costs like paid electricity and water. "I have fallen from the roof and my foot is slightly injured. There are many problems," he said.

Azizullah, another Kabul resident, urged the government to create job opportunities and provide salaries for disabled people and those with disabilities.

The Ministry of Economy stated that the Islamic Emirate has programs underway to reduce poverty and unemployment. Spokesman Abdul Rahman Habib said climate changes, consecutive droughts, and economic sanctions have impacted citizens' livelihoods, requiring national and international efforts. Current priorities include supporting agriculture and livestock, developing domestic production, reducing reliance on imports, and managing water resources and infrastructure.

Economic expert Qutbuddin Yaqubi recommended fundamental actions, with greater focus on small-scale investments to generate short-term job opportunities.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs previously announced a 2026 plan with partners to address urgent needs of the vulnerable in Afghanistan.