Relief Work Resumes in Afghanistan?s Central Highlands

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On 11 July, a determined Medair WASH team resumed work in Bamyan province after Medair re-opened its operations in the region in the wake of May's abduction incident in Badakhshan province. The WASH team is building safe water points in remote villages and schools, constructing latrines, and improving awareness of health and hygiene. "The communities we are working with in Bamyan are delighted to have the WASH team back, and work has resumed in earnest to make the most of the short Afghan summer," said Andrew Robinson, Medair Field Communications Officer. "Despite the fact that it is Ramadan and the weather is extremely hot, everyone is highly motivated and working hard." Adding to the motivation is the fact that Medair's WASH work in remote Waras district, Bamyan has been making a significant difference for vulnerable families. Children in the area have become healthier with fewer incidences of malnutrition thanks to the safe water, latrines, and more awareness of health and hygiene. The positive impact of Medair's work has been noted by Dr. Abozer, head doctor of Panjab hospital: "There are fewer cases of diarrhoea and malnutrition from communities that have benefited from WASH programmes," said Dr. Abozer. "The majority of the patients we treat for diarrhoea and malnutrition come from communities that have not had any water, sanitation, and hygiene assistance." Medair's work in Bamyan province is supported by Swiss Solidarity, Arcanum Foundation, and private donations. We appreciate their steadfast support during the programme suspension in Bamyan. An update on Medair's activities in Badakhshan province will be provided soon. This web update was produced with resources gathered by Medair field and headquarters staff. The views expressed herein are those solely of Medair and should not be taken, in any way, to reflect the official opinion of any other organisation.