Rising Poverty Drives Thousands to Begging in Kabul Amid Economic Crisis

As economic issues continue to rise, the number of beggars in Kabul remains alarmingly high. The Taliban government has reported that 110,000 individuals have been identified during their campaigns to address the begging situation.

Rising Number of Beggars in Kabul

Poverty, unemployment, and a decline in job opportunities are contributing to the increasing number of beggars in Kabul. Amid these difficulties, many people are turning to begging to meet their daily needs. Reports indicate a distressing scene where an elderly woman begs for help by the side of public roads in Kabul, tearfully imploring passersby for aid as she worries about her family’s wellbeing due to the dire economic conditions.

In another report, a man named Gul Mohammad expressed concerns to the media, stating that they risk being arrested if the Taliban catches them while begging. He speaks of the hardships he faces, including the hunger of his children and his fear of potential detention.

Campaign to Address Begging

On September 9, the Taliban government launched a new campaign aimed at addressing the issue of begging in Kabul. Abdul Rahman Monir, the Deputy Minister for Counter-Narcotics at the Ministry of Interior, announced that since the Taliban took power, approximately 110,000 beggars have been rounded up, with 35,000 identified as particularly needy.

Despite these efforts, it is evident that a large number of beggars are still visible on the streets and in local markets in Kabul. Habib Ghazan, a shopkeeper, stated that between 15 to 20 individuals come to his shop daily, and shopkeepers are unable to assist everyone.

Social and Economic Challenges

Economic experts underscore that addressing the issue of begging requires an examination of its underlying causes. Mohammad Ibrahim Momand, an expert in the field, highlighted the need for vocational training and the creation of job opportunities for the needy. He advocates for the government to allocate a special fund for these individuals, enabling them to engage in economic activities.

According to a report from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), it is projected that by 2025, 74% of Afghans will struggle to meet their basic needs. Since the Taliban’s return to power, unemployment and a reduction in foreign aid have exacerbated economic challenges.