KABUL (SW) – China and the Afghanistan section of the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) have signed a cooperation agreement valued at $1.5 million, to support the urgent needs of children and families affected by climate change.
Tajuddin Oyewale, UNICEF’s representative in Afghanistan, stated in the press conference in Kabul, that this is the first time China has made such a financial contribution to UNICEF. According to Mr. Oyewale, China’s $1.5 million donation will enable UNICEF to assist more than 28,500 families, which amounts to approximately 289,000 people.
Mr. Oyewale further explained that this aid will include water purification tablets and hygiene kits containing 14 essential items for personal hygiene.
The UNICEF representative also expressed concern about Afghanistan’s vulnerability to climate change.
“Afghanistan is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change. Prolonged droughts have significantly reduced access to clean water, leaving millions without access to safe drinking water,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ma Chen Guang, the Commercial Counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Kabul, said that China is providing this financial assistance to ensure access to clean drinking water, improve environmental sanitation, and supply personal hygiene items to Afghanistan’s most vulnerable populations.
