We are deeply saddened by the tragic earthquake that struck eastern Afghanistan the evening of August 31, leaving hundreds dead and thousands injured. The World Food Programme (WFP) is on the ground supporting communities impacted by the 6.0 magnitude earthquake, which devastated communities across Kunar Province, with its epicenter near Jalalabad. Afghan officials report more than 800 fatalities and 2,500 injuries, with the toll expected to rise as rescue teams work to reach isolated villages in steep terrain. The shallow depth of the quake—just five miles below the surface—made it especially destructive, triggering landslides, and blocking access to remote areas.
WFP is delivering High Energy Biscuits to the people impacted. But this is just the beginning. Assessments are ongoing and the response will scale accordingly to meet the needs on the ground. World Food Program USA is calling on its donors and partners to take action now by donating to support WFP’s emergency response. We stand committed to the people of Afghanistan in their time of great need—but we cannot do it alone. Your donation today will help WFP respond swiftly to this emergency and address the deepening hunger crisis affecting millions.
This earthquake comes at a time when hunger and malnutrition are deepening across Afghanistan, with nearly 10 million people facing acute food insecurity. Child malnutrition has spiked to the highest levels on record—one in three children are now stunted and in urgent need of treatment. Women and girls bear the brunt of this crisis, with two-thirds of woman-headed households unable to afford basic nutrition. As winter approaches, 15 million people will need lifesaving food assistance, with many communities soon to be cut off by snow and ice.
WFP has worked in Afghanistan since 1963, providing food assistance and resilience support to communities impacted by conflict, climate extremes, and natural disasters. Its ability to support the people of Afghanistan has been severely impacted by reduced funding. Just three years ago, in 2022, WFP reached half of Afghanistan’s population, pulling millions back from the brink of starvation. Today, assistance has been reduced to a fraction of those in need, and with current resources, WFP can only support 1 million people per month—leaving more than 5 million of the most vulnerable Afghans without desperately needed aid.
Please join us in helping to feed families in Afghanistan. Visit wfpusa.org/HelpAfghanistan to make a gift now.
