As Afghanistan continues to grapple with a severe humanitarian crisis compounded by economic hardship and heightened military tensions in the region, the Bayat Foundation has stepped up efforts to support vulnerable families in Kabul through its annual Ramadan assistance program.

This week, the foundation distributed food packages to dozens of struggling households in Kabul’s District 18. The packages include essential staples such as rice, flour, and cooking oil — basic necessities that many families are increasingly unable to afford amid high levels of unemployment, reduced incomes, and rising living costs.

Afghanistan remains one of the world’s most fragile humanitarian settings. Years of conflict, recurring natural disasters, economic isolation, and widespread poverty have left millions dependent on aid.

According to humanitarian agencies, a significant portion of the population faces food insecurity, with many families forced to skip meals or rely on limited assistance to survive. The situation has been further strained by recent regional tensions, which have disrupted trade routes and deepened economic uncertainty.

Speaking during the distribution, Haji Mohammad Esmail, Deputy Director of the Bayat Foundation, emphasized the organization’s ongoing commitment to assisting those in need.

“Continuing our annual Ramadan assistance [campaign], we are once again distributing aid this year. Today, we are in Kabul’s 18th district, providing food packages — including flour, oil, and rice — to a number of eligible families whose list was prepared by our team. Our assistance will continue both in Kabul and other provinces.”

For many recipients, the support offers not just food, but a measure of stability during an otherwise precarious time.

“I have no breadwinner at home; I am the one providing for my family. We are seven members,” said one woman receiving assistance. “Thank you — may God help you for assisting us poor people.”

Founded by Afghan businessman and philanthropist Dr Ehsanullah Bayat, the Bayat Foundation has been active in humanitarian and development work across Afghanistan for years. In addition to its annual Ramadan food drives, the organization has supported communities affected by earthquakes, floods, and harsh winters, provided healthcare initiatives, and contributed to educational and infrastructure projects in underserved areas.

As the holy month of Ramadan continues, the foundation says distributions will expand to other districts of Kabul and additional provinces, aiming to reach as many vulnerable families as possible during a period traditionally marked by charity, solidarity, and compassion.