Afghans Frustrated by Poor Internet Quality and High Costs

A growing number of Afghans are expressing dissatisfaction with the low quality and high prices of internet services. They report that frequent disconnections have created serious challenges in their daily lives.

Complaints About Internet Services in Afghanistan

In today’s modern world, internet access has become essential. However, many citizens in Afghanistan are voicing frustrations over slow speeds, constant interruptions, and exorbitant prices. Marasal, a resident of Kabul, shared that despite the high costs, he receives subpar internet service, impacting his ability to communicate with friends abroad.

He stated, “The internet quality is extremely poor, frequently cutting out during calls. Given the unemployment situation, paying for internet activation has become a challenge, yet companies continue to provide low-quality services at high prices.”

The Impact of Internet Issues on Online Education

Ismail, a resident of Nangarhar studying online at a university in Turkey, explained that the inadequate internet quality hinders his academic progress. He remarked, “Currently, I am pursuing my master’s degree online, but the quality of the internet prevents me from fully engaging in my studies.”

Lack of Accountability from the Ministry of Communications

Despite the longstanding nature of these issues, the Taliban’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has not addressed the concerns of internet users. The Ministry previously announced a reduction in the price of one gigabyte of internet; however, users remain dissatisfied with the poor quality.

A Nangarhar resident further commented that the internet marketed as 4G is even slower than 2G. He asserted, “The quality of these services is absolutely unacceptable.”

Current State of Internet Services

Issues regarding the quality and price of internet services have persisted since the previous government, yet little has been done to remedy the situation. Six telecommunications companies operate in Afghanistan, with the monthly price for one gigabyte of internet ranging from 92 to 95 Afghanis, which is burdensome for many people with low incomes.