WFP Mobilizes Rapid Aid for Earthquake Stricken Areas in Afghanistan Amidst Mounting Humanitarian Crisis

The World Food Programme (WFP) is extending urgent assistance to survivors following a devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake in Herat province, Afghanistan, on October 7th. With a current death toll estimated at 2,000, over 4,000 injured, and 1,400 displaced, the WFP promptly began distributing high-energy biscuits to 700 families in several villages and is preparing aid for up to 70,000 people affected. The organization is allocating food and cash, and has prepared food parcels sufficient to feed 20,000 people, with each parcel containing essentials to feed a family of seven for a month. The tragedy strikes amidst an existing humanitarian crisis, with 15 million Afghans uncertain of their next meal and WFP urgently needing US$400 million to assist 7 million vulnerable individuals through the upcoming months, especially considering the challenging Afghan winter ahead.