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Update from Afghanistan after last month’s deadly earthquake

After the largest earthquake in two decades struck Afghanistan, the situation remains critical. Please pray.

Written by Rachael Adams | 15 Jul 2022

Man standing next to buildings destroyed by earthquakes

A man stands outside of his home, which has been completely destroyed by the earthquake | Image credit: Tearfund Partner

On 22 June, a 6.1 magnitude earthquake hit Afghanistan during the night. More than 1,000 people were killed and many more injured in the provinces of Paktika and Khost, eastern Afghanistan. Most families have lost at least one person in their households. With thousands of homes destroyed, as well as health centres, schools and water networks, the situation remains critical.

Responding where the need is greatest

Tearfund’s local partner is providing cash assistance to 500 families in Paktika who have been severely impacted. Offering cash means that they can make their own decisions and buy the things they need the most.

Outbreaks of illnesses, such as cholera, are common following earthquakes; the decimation of health facilities means there is less capacity to respond. Therefore, our team is sharing crucial information on how families can stay safe.

Our local partner is also working alongside other charities in the area. By sharing knowledge and pooling resources, we’re able to help reach even more people in desperate need.

Home reduced to rubble
Buildings reduced to rubble

Top Homes in Paktika and Khost have been reduced to rubble by the earthquake | Image credit: Tearfund Partner Bottom The damage is widespread, with thousands of homes, as well as health centres, schools and water networks destroyed | Image credit: Tearfund Partner

Critical situation

The people of Afghanistan are already suffering from years of conflict, Covid-19 and the disastrous effects of the climate crisis. Right now, the country is in the middle of the worst drought in 27 years. Water sources are drying up and crops are withering, leading to widespread food shortages.

Following the takeover by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), international aid has also been withdrawn from the country, leading to economic collapse.

This has led to 95 per cent of Afghans now not getting enough to eat. The earthquake has meant that many of those who were going hungry have now also lost their homes.

Time of need

‘Thank you for praying for the people of Afghanistan – your prayers are making a difference,’ shares Corine Verdoold, who leads Tearfund’s work in the country.

‘We also thank those who have already given to Tearfund – this has enabled us to provide this immediate response to those most impacted. We will continue to work to assess ongoing and changing needs and to support those most in need in Afghanistan.

‘We have been committed to working with the people of Afghanistan for more than 50 years and we’re committed to supporting them now at this time of need.’

Pray with us

    • Pray for comfort and peace for people who are grieving and who have lost everything. Pray for provision to meet all their emotional and practical needs.
    • Thank God for the recovery workers and first-responders, who continue to work to keep people safe and assess the damage. Pray that help will reach everyone in need.
    • Pray for peaceful solutions to help tackle the crises that Afghans are facing and that will lead to people being lifted out of poverty and able to reach their full potential. Pray for hope and joy in the midst of the difficulty.

Written by

Written by  Rachael Adams


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