Healthcare Crisis Deepens in Afghanistan Amid Medicine Shortage and Clinic Closures

The shortage of medicine and the closure of health centers in Afghanistan have made access to medical services challenging for over three million people. Economic issues have further exacerbated this situation.

Shortage of Medicine and Closure of Health Centers

The lack of medicine and the closure of several health centers in Afghanistan have created serious problems for families. These issues have complicated the lives of people already grappling with economic hardships. For many patients, reaching a clinic and purchasing medication has become a significant challenge.

Shamsia, a resident of Takhar province, shares her frustration: “Every time I visit the clinic, I return empty-handed. I’ve completely lost hope in going to the clinic.” She highlights that the shortage of medicine and health facilities makes visits to health centers futile.

Similar Situation in Other Provinces

A similar situation is reported in Badghis province. Malika, who lives in a remote area, states, “In our region, the clinic provides no services. The doctor only sees patients once and tells them to go buy medicine outside the clinic.”

Shah Faisal, a resident of Baghlan province, also emphasizes the difficulty of accessing health services, stating, “There are no health clinics in our area, and it is urgently necessary to establish one.”

Responses from Authorities and Financial Situation

Sharafat Zaman, a spokesperson for the Taliban’s Ministry of Public Health, did not respond to these concerns. However, Zabiullah Mujahid, another spokesperson for the Taliban government, announced that the Ministry of Public Health has developed a five-year plan to strengthen the health system. According to him, 92.7 million health services have been provided to citizens over the past year.

The World Health Organization has also reported that a decrease in humanitarian aid in the coming years will lead to the closure of hundreds of health centers. According to their report, by December 20, 2025, 445 health centers are expected to cease operations due to financial issues.

Serious Challenges Facing the Health System

The shortage of medicine and medical equipment in Afghanistan has become a major challenge. Domestic drug production is very limited and the country relies heavily on imports. Additionally, border issues have impacted the supply chain. Health workers in Ghor province have pointed out the medicine shortages and budget constraints, emphasizing that this situation severely affects health services.

Amid increasing tensions between the Taliban government and Pakistan, the transfer of medicines and medical supplies has faced disruptions, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.