Pregnant Women in Bamyan Face Harsh Reality in Seeking Healthcare

Doctors Without Borders has reported that pregnant women in Bamyan are compelled to rely on pack animals for transportation to medical facilities due to the lack of proper roads. This situation has resulted in serious challenges in providing healthcare services.

Pregnant Women in Bamyan Rely on Pack Animals for Healthcare

In a recent report, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) highlighted the severe challenges in accessing healthcare services in remote areas of Bamyan. Due to inadequate transportation infrastructure, pregnant women are often forced to use donkeys to reach medical centers.

One such case involved a mother named “Muslima,” who had to travel four hours on a donkey to reach a medical facility in the “Baghak” area for her delivery. Following childbirth, she must traverse the same route back with her newborn.

Healthcare Challenges in Bamyan

Local reports indicate that in the mountainous regions of Bamyan, such as in the Panjab district, pregnant women are often carried by others, and with the onset of winter, accessing healthcare services becomes nearly impossible. As a result, many deliveries still occur at home with the assistance of traditional midwives.

Research has shown that the quality of healthcare services in Bamyan has significantly declined in recent years. The transfer of some specialized centers to Wardak province, a 50% shortage of medication in government hospitals, decreased salaries for doctors, and the hiring of unqualified personnel in healthcare leadership have all exacerbated the challenges faced in the region.

Historical Marginalization and Security Challenges

Some civil society activists in Bamyan have pointed to the historical marginalization of areas like the Ghandaak and Baghak valleys, stating that the persistent presence of extremist groups and the resulting insecurity are significant obstacles to implementing development projects and improving healthcare services in these regions.