The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has warned that the worsening water crisis in Afghanistan is having far-reaching adverse effects on people’s lives, with women and children bearing a disproportionate share of the burden.
In a report released on Thursday, UNAMA stated that the responsibility for securing and collecting water is not distributed equally within communities. According to the report, the United Nations World Water Development Report 2026 indicates that women and girls shoulder the greatest burden of water collection and face numerous daily challenges as a result of water scarcity.
UNAMA noted that the ongoing water crisis has not only affected livelihoods, public health, and everyday life across Afghanistan, but has also created distinct and heightened challenges for women and children.
The report further highlights that water shortages and limited access to water resources have exacerbated existing gender inequalities in the country, as women and girls are required to devote significantly more time and energy to obtaining water.
UNAMA called for effective and sustainable measures to address the crisis, emphasizing that equitable access to water resources is essential for improving living conditions, strengthening social stability, and advancing sustainable development throughout Afghanistan.
Writer:Saeed Sameer
