Afghanistan faces profound challenges rooted in its geographical constraints, cultural norms, and a history marred by conflict. Poverty is widespread, particularly impacting women and girls, with deep disparities between urban and rural areas and limited opportunities for economic advancement. The ongoing instability and human rights concerns further exacerbate these issues, threatening to undo progress made in recent years. Amidst this complex landscape, the Afghan Care Program stands as a beacon of hope, delivering essential aid and fostering sustainable development.
CARE’s commitment to Afghanistan began in 1961, demonstrating a long-standing dedication to the Afghan people. Although operations were temporarily suspended following the 1979 Russian invasion, CARE resolutely resumed its mission in 1989, operating from Peshawar, Pakistan, to provide cross-border assistance. By 2002, recognizing the evolving needs and improved accessibility, CARE relocated its main office back to Kabul, reaffirming its direct and sustained engagement within Afghanistan. This historical perspective underscores the depth of CARE’s experience and adaptability in navigating the complexities of delivering aid in Afghanistan.
The Afghan Care Program is structured around three core pillars, each designed to address critical aspects of the Afghan crisis: Women’s & girls’ empowerment, Enhanced resilience, and Humanitarian action. The Women’s & girls’ empowerment program tackles gender inequality head-on, aiming to create lasting change for women and girls marginalized socially and economically. This initiative prioritizes Sexual, Reproductive and Maternal Health services, recognizing their fundamental importance for women’s well-being and agency. The Enhanced resilience program focuses on strengthening communities’ ability to withstand shocks and stresses, particularly in areas of Food Security and Livelihoods. By improving agricultural practices and diversifying income opportunities, this program builds long-term stability. Finally, the Humanitarian action program provides crucial emergency response during crises, addressing immediate needs while also working towards long-term solutions in areas like Inclusive Governance and Education. These interconnected programs demonstrate a holistic approach to development, tackling both immediate needs and systemic challenges to create a more equitable and resilient Afghanistan.
Through the Afghan Care Program, CARE is committed to creating significant and lasting improvements in the lives of vulnerable Afghan women and girls. By focusing on these key areas, the program strives to empower communities, build resilience, and provide critical humanitarian assistance, ultimately contributing to a more stable and prosperous future for Afghanistan.
