UNICEF says 16 million children in Afghanistan in need of aid

The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) on Thursday said 16 million children in Afghanistan need support and humanitarian assistance.

Fran Equiza, UNICEF representative in Afghanistan, said in a video message the rights of children in Afghanistan are weakened every day and a large number of children carry responsibilities way beyond their age.

Visiting a UNICEF-supported children’s learning center, Equiza thanked the EU, its people and all over donors for their support – showing them where some of their money was going and how it was helping children.

“In a country with almost 16 million children in need of protection and humanitarian assistance, in a country in which way to many kids are burdened with responsibilities way beyond their age, in a country where the children’s rights are eroded every day, having a space like this offers the kids a respite, a safe and secure space where the kids can rest, can relax, can play and can make friends,” he said.

The heartwarming video shows Equiza on the mat, playing with the children, who were clearly thrilled to welcome a visitor into their sanctuary.

The organization stated that UNICEF supports child-friendly spaces where girls and boys can find respite from Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis.

Fran Equiza, UNICEF representative in Afghanistan, said in a video message the rights of children in Afghanistan are weakened every day and a large number of children carry responsibilities way beyond their age.