New Doctors Without Borders Head Meets Taliban Governor in Bamyan

The newly appointed head of Doctors Without Borders in Bamyan province met with the local Taliban governor on Monday to discuss the continuation of medical services and infrastructure development in the region.

Rita Idda, who recently assumed leadership of the humanitarian organization’s operations in the province, held talks with Governor Gol Haider Shafaq in the provincial capital. According to a statement from the provincial administration, the discussions centered on health service delivery, strengthening bilateral cooperation, and ensuring the uninterrupted provision of free healthcare through coordinated efforts.

During the meeting, Governor Shafaq outlined several priorities for the region’s medical sector. He requested the establishment of a fully equipped hospital in the provincial center, the development of district-level health facilities, and the delivery of additional medical equipment to support local clinics. Both parties emphasized the need for continued coordination to maintain healthcare access for residents across Bamyan.

The meeting takes place against a backdrop of ongoing challenges to healthcare access in Afghanistan. Restrictions implemented by the de facto authorities have limited medical services in several provinces, with rural communities and women, particularly pregnant mothers, facing significant barriers to care. Humanitarian organizations have continued to navigate these constraints while attempting to sustain essential health programs.

Officials from both sides indicated that future engagements would focus on operational coordination and addressing logistical requirements to expand medical coverage in underserved areas.