UN Agency Estimates 16 Million People in Afghanistan Need Water and Sanitation Assistance in 2026

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs estimates that 16 million people in Afghanistan will need assistance in the water and sanitation sector in 2026. This estimate highlights the scale of the challenge posed by water scarcity in the country.

According to the agency, water scarcity is altering daily life for families and communities. Children face greater health risks as a result of these conditions, and communities are under increasing strain as they attempt to manage limited resources.

The agency also noted the impact of the 2025 drought. At least 3.4 million people in northern and western provinces were affected by this event. Agriculture suffered damage, as did livestock and the livelihoods of many residents in those areas.

Calls have been made for more urgent food and humanitarian support to address the situation. The broader context includes recurring droughts, inadequate infrastructure, poverty, and reduced international aid, all of which contribute to the humanitarian crisis affecting water access.

These factors together are exacerbating the difficulties faced by the population in securing clean water and sanitation services.