UN Urges Afghanistan to Strengthen Disaster Preparedness Amid Recent Flooding

The United Nations has emphasized the importance of Afghanistan’s preparedness for natural disasters during a meeting in Kabul, advocating for investment in preventive systems following significant damage caused by recent flooding.

UN: Afghanistan Must Be Prepared for Natural Disasters

The United Nations warns that Afghanistan needs to be proactive in its preparedness for natural disasters, rather than relying solely on post-disaster responses. In this context, a meeting was held in Kabul aimed at strengthening coordination and readiness in managing natural events.

Representatives from UN agencies, international aid organizations, embassies, and Taliban officials attended the meeting. Tajuddin Oweiali, a UNICEF representative in Afghanistan, highlighted the major challenges facing the country, stating, “Afghanistan is grappling with natural disasters, unexploded ordnance, ongoing droughts, and food insecurity.”

Impact of Natural Disasters and the Need for Preventive Measures

Oweiali cautioned that reliance on post-disaster responses is no longer sufficient. He added, “The recent earthquakes and floods indicate the necessity of investing in early warning systems and focusing on preventive measures before tragedies occur.” His observations included the remaining mines from conflicts as a significant hindrance to rescue and aid efforts.

Mian Park, head of the International Organization for Migration in Afghanistan, also noted during the meeting that although Afghanistan contributes little to climate change, it is disproportionately affected by its impacts. He stressed, “Disaster management is not an option; it is a fundamental necessity.”

International Aid and Transparency in Distribution

Mullah Nooruddin Tarabi, head of the Taliban’s Natural Disaster Management Authority, called for depoliticizing international aid and reducing administrative costs to ensure more people benefit from assistance. He stated, “Aid should be distributed transparently and swiftly.”

This meeting comes in the wake of multiple natural disasters that Afghanistan has faced in recent months, particularly highlighting the damages from recent floods. Following these floods, at least 24 people have lost their lives, over 80 have been injured, and the financial losses are estimated to reach tens of millions of dollars.