
UNHCR and Salam Watandar hold talks to amplify returnees’ voices
Representative of UNHCR Afghanistan visited Salam Afghanistan Media Organization (Salam Watandar Radio Network) in Kabul.

Representative of UNHCR Afghanistan visited Salam Afghanistan Media Organization (Salam Watandar Radio Network) in Kabul.

The results of a Salam Watandar interview with 18 teachers who are also mothers, conducted across six provinces—Panjshir, Sar-e Pol, Daikundi, Baghlan, Kabul, and Samangan—show that 13 of them have been able to achieve a balance between teaching and motherhood through planning, division of responsibilities, and family support. However, the remaining five face serious challenges due to lack of family support and resources.

A number of obstetricians and gynecologists at Malalai Hospital say that premarital counseling is important for both girls and boys, and that examinations such as blood group and Rh factor, hormonal tests, spermograms, evaluations of male and female reproductive health, and uterine health checks are essential before marriage.

A number of farmers in Kunduz told Salam Watandar that climate change and the continued use of chemical fertilizers have created challenges for traditional farming methods.

Although Islamic Sharia emphasizes consultation and mutual family understanding in decision-making — including marriage — in many families in Afghanistan the role of mothers in this process is overlooked, and they are excluded from decision-making.

The government of Japan, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has announced a new joint initiative titled “Resilient Income Solutions Empowering Alternative Livelihoods” (RISE) aimed at supporting vulnerable communities in Afghanistan.

With the arrival of spring, the flower and plant market has taken on a fresh look, and youth working in this sector report increased sales during this season. Many of them turned to this profession because of their personal interest and the lack of job opportunities. By cultivating different kinds of ornamental plants, they not only beautify the environment but also create a source of income for themselves.

She has plans for the future and wants to expand her flower cultivation. She says, “I tell all women not to lose hope. Start with small steps and believe in yourselves. Every woman can make a difference.”

Doctors believe that although Tetanus vaccination is vital for preventing life-threatening diseases in mothers and newborns, some women in Jawzjan province have not received the vaccine due to a lack of awareness, economic difficulties, and limited access to health services.

UNHCR’s Representative in Afghanistan visited Kandahar province to scale up support for refugee returnee communities, a key return area in the country, while continuing to respond to emerging needs along the border.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate has announced the start of the “Afghanistan–Central Asia Consultative Dialogue” meeting.

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has warned that Afghanistan ranks as the third country in the world in terms of having the