UN warns of deepening water crisis in central Afghanistan amid climate change

The United Nations has warned of worsening water shortages, the impacts of climate change and inadequate infrastructure in Afghanistan’s central highland regions, highlighting growing challenges facing communities in remote areas.

Rabab Fatima, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative in Afghanistan, raised the concerns during a visit to Bamyan province, where she assessed the living conditions and challenges facing local communities.

Fatima said poor road networks and inadequate infrastructure in remote areas have made it increasingly difficult for residents to access essential services, including healthcare and education.

During her visit to the mountainous central regions of Afghanistan from November 2 to 4, she met with local communities to discuss their daily challenges, as well as opportunities for improving livelihoods and access to basic services.

She also stressed the need to expand healthcare services, establish more medical facilities in underserved areas and strengthen support for girls’ education.

Fatima praised the enthusiasm of students in Bamyan for education and highlighted the growing participation of women in business, describing these developments as encouraging signs for the region’s future.

She called for equal educational and economic opportunities for girls and women, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that remote communities are not left behind.

The visit comes as Afghanistan’s central highlands continue to face significant challenges linked to climate change, water scarcity and limited infrastructure, underscoring the need for sustained support and investment in essential services.