http://www.irinnews.org en-us IRIN 2009 Humanitarian news and analysis from Afghanistan in Dari IRIN Radio Listen to unique daily news and features in Dari from our network of correspondents plus interviews and debate. Listen to unique daily news and features in Dari from our network of correspondents plus interviews and debate. IRIN Talks IRINRadio@irinnews.org Ali Minayar Overstretched health services in Kandahar province Health officials say patient numbers in Kandahar’s Mirwais hospital are rising steeply, but doctors do not have the capacity to respond to the influx. Most of the patients at Mirwais hospital come from the southern insecure provinces, where health centres have been closed by the insurgency. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. Health officials say patient numbers in Kandahar’s Mirwais hospital are rising steeply, but doctors do not have the capacity to respond to the influx. Most of the patients at Mirwais hospital come from the southern insecure provinces, where health centres have been closed by the insurgency. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Overstretched_health_services_in_Kandahar_province_30092009.mp3 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 07:31:11 GMT 06:57 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi "Differentiate rape from adultery" - rights groups Human rights groups are calling on the Afghan government to adopt a new law to define rape as a criminal offence, and separate rape from consensual adultery, which is treated as a serious crime. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Human rights groups are calling on the Afghan government to adopt a new law to define rape as a criminal offence, and separate rape from consensual adultery, which is treated as a serious crime. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/_Differentiate_rape_from_adultery__rights_groups_06092009.mp3 Sun, 06 Sep 2009 05:53:49 GMT 05:50 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Midwives defy tradition and save lives Health officials in the central Bamyan province estimate that newly trained midwives have been able to reduce the maternal mortality rate in the province by almost 50 percent. Midwives are believed to have improved women’s access to essential health services and thus have contributed to the reduction in maternal deaths in some parts of the country despite conservative traditions, according to the National Association of Midwives. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Health officials in the central Bamyan province estimate that newly trained midwives have been able to reduce the maternal mortality rate in the province by almost 50 percent. Midwives are believed to have improved women’s access to essential health services and thus have contributed to the reduction in maternal deaths in some parts of the country despite conservative traditions, according to the National Association of Midwives. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Midwives_defy_tradition_and_save_lives_27082009.mp3 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 07:45:30 GMT 07:02 Afghanistan Ali Minayar Drop in wheat price worries farmers, pleases consumers Farmers in Afghanistan's top cereal-producing provinces worry that the decline in wheat prices will push them into poverty, while urban consumers welcome the fall. A bumper harvest - more than 6 million MT of cereals - has been forecast this year, largely owing to better rainfall and increased wheat cultivation across the country, according to the FAO. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. Farmers in Afghanistan's top cereal-producing provinces worry that the decline in wheat prices will push them into poverty, while urban consumers welcome the fall. A bumper harvest - more than 6 million MT of cereals - has been forecast this year, largely owing to better rainfall and increased wheat cultivation across the country, according to the FAO. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Drop_in_wheat_price_worries_farmers_pleases_consumers_26082009.mp3 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:02:12 GMT 04:35 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi New centres to tackle malnutrition among mothers and children The Afghan Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) supported by the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) has established 44 nutrition centres in several provinces across the country. The centres will provide nutritional supplements to mothers and children who do not have access to fortified food. According to MoPH, Afghanistan has one of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the world with malnutrition being one of the major contributing factors. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. The Afghan Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) supported by the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) has established 44 nutrition centres in several provinces across the country. The centres will provide nutritional supplements to mothers and children who do not have access to fortified food. According to MoPH, Afghanistan has one of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the world with malnutrition being one of the major contributing factors. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/New_centres_to_tackle_malnutrition_among_mothers_and_children_26082009.mp3 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 06:51:09 GMT 06:39 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Hygiene campaign to reduce diarrhoea deaths The Ministry of Public Health has started a two-month public awareness campaign to promote family hygiene. According to health officials, poor hygiene plays a part in the annual deaths of some 50,000 child from pneumonia and diarrhoeal diseases. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. The Ministry of Public Health has started a two-month public awareness campaign to promote family hygiene. According to health officials, poor hygiene plays a part in the annual deaths of some 50,000 child from pneumonia and diarrhoeal diseases. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Hygiene_campaign_to_reduce_diarrhoea_deaths_25082009.mp3 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:46:29 GMT 06:32 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Fatima: “pregnancy deaths in my family changed my life” Since her childhood Fatima, now aged 21 and one of very few literate women in her conservative village in the central Afghan province of Daikundi, wanted to become a midwife, however, her male relatives and the village elders strongly opposed that. The tragic death of her two sisters-in-law during and after delivery prompted her relatives and the community to agree to send her to the midwifery school in neighbouring Bamyan province. There are 14 trained midwives serving 600,000 people in Daikundi, which has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the country. She told IRIN her story. Since her childhood Fatima, now aged 21 and one of very few literate women in her conservative village in the central Afghan province of Daikundi, wanted to become a midwife, however, her male relatives and the village elders strongly opposed that. The tragic death of her two sisters-in-law during and after delivery prompted her relatives and the community to agree to send her to the midwifery school in neighbouring Bamyan province. There are 14 trained midwives serving 600,000 people in Daikundi, which has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the country. She told IRIN her story. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Fatima__pregnancy_deaths_in_my_family_changed_my_life_25082009.mp3 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:11:17 GMT 04:56 Afghanistan Ali Minayar High risk humanitarianism Safe humanitarian space is contested terrain in Afghanistan, where the independence and impartiality of aid work comes under daily challenge in the country’s ongoing conflict. Dozens of aid workers have been killed, kidnapped and threatened over the past few years and attacks on aid convoys and facilities have risen steadily. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. Safe humanitarian space is contested terrain in Afghanistan, where the independence and impartiality of aid work comes under daily challenge in the country’s ongoing conflict. Dozens of aid workers have been killed, kidnapped and threatened over the past few years and attacks on aid convoys and facilities have risen steadily. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/High_risk_humanitarianism2_25082009.mp3 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 05:05:17 GMT 06:11 Afghanistan Ali Minayar After the floods, malaria? Stagnant water in flood-affected parts of Afghanistan is the perfect breeding ground for malarial mosquitoes, health specialists warn. Afghanistan is considered to have the fourth largest malaria burden worldwide with an estimated annual incidence of 18 cases per 1,000 people in 2007, according to the UN World Health Organization. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. Stagnant water in flood-affected parts of Afghanistan is the perfect breeding ground for malarial mosquitoes, health specialists warn. Afghanistan is considered to have the fourth largest malaria burden worldwide with an estimated annual incidence of 18 cases per 1,000 people in 2007, according to the UN World Health Organization. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/After_th1.mp3 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:16:43 GMT 04:04 Afghanistan Ali Minayar After the floods, malaria? Stagnant water in flood-affected parts of Afghanistan is the perfect breeding ground for malarial mosquitoes, health specialists warn. Afghanistan is considered to have the fourth largest malaria burden worldwide with an estimated annual incidence of 18 cases per 1,000 people in 2007, according to the UN World Health Organization. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. Stagnant water in flood-affected parts of Afghanistan is the perfect breeding ground for malarial mosquitoes, health specialists warn. Afghanistan is considered to have the fourth largest malaria burden worldwide with an estimated annual incidence of 18 cases per 1,000 people in 2007, according to the UN World Health Organization. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/After_the_floods_malaria_10082009.mp3 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 07:57:51 GMT 04:04 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Unsafe housing puts Kabul residents at risk More than three million of Kabul's five million population live in illegal, unplanned and sub-standard houses that are prone to collapse in natural disasters and also lack water and sanitation facilities, according to government officials. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. More than three million of Kabul's five million population live in illegal, unplanned and sub-standard houses that are prone to collapse in natural disasters and also lack water and sanitation facilities, according to government officials. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Unsafe_housing_puts_Kabul_residents_at_risk_05082009.mp3 Wed, 05 Aug 2009 06:00:25 GMT 06:44 Afghanistan Ali Minayar Insecurity and lack of aid prompt IDPs to leave camp Over 1,000 displaced families in a camp in Kandahar province, southern Afghanistan, have opted to return to their homes in the north and northwest, because of worsening insecurity and lack of aid at the camp. Zherai Dasht camp, about 25 km west of Kandahar city, was home to hundreds of thousands of displaced people in 2002-2005. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. Over 1,000 displaced families in a camp in Kandahar province, southern Afghanistan, have opted to return to their homes in the north and northwest, because of worsening insecurity and lack of aid at the camp. Zherai Dasht camp, about 25 km west of Kandahar city, was home to hundreds of thousands of displaced people in 2002-2005. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Insecurity_and_lack_of_aid_prompt_IDPs_to_leave_camp_03082009.mp3 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 06:14:13 GMT 05:57 Afghanistan Ali Minayar Fighting stubborn polio virus Despite efforts since 1980 to eradicate polio from Afghanistan, the disease is still prevalent. At least 10 children have been infected with polio in the past six months, according to health officials. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. Despite efforts since 1980 to eradicate polio from Afghanistan, the disease is still prevalent. At least 10 children have been infected with polio in the past six months, according to health officials. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Fighting_stubborn_polio_virus_29072009.mp3 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 09:54:18 GMT 04:01 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Uphill struggle for potato farmers in Bamyan Farmers in Afghanistan’s top potato-producing province are complaining about declining profits, mainly because of cold weather, lack of storage facilities and bad roads. Potato cultivation in Bamyan, central Afghanistan, employs thousands of people. Output can top 150,000 tons a year, according to the government. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Farmers in Afghanistan’s top potato-producing province are complaining about declining profits, mainly because of cold weather, lack of storage facilities and bad roads. Potato cultivation in Bamyan, central Afghanistan, employs thousands of people. Output can top 150,000 tons a year, according to the government. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Uphill_struggle_for_potato_farmers_in_Bamyan_27072009.mp3 Mon, 27 Jul 2009 11:29:07 GMT 04:51 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Patients turn to India for treatment The lack of quality health services at home is prompting thousands of Afghan patients to travel to India for medical treatment, despite the high costs. The Indian embassy in Kabul said it had issued 5,224 medical visas in 2008 - up from 4,658 in 2007 and 3,844 in 2006. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. The lack of quality health services at home is prompting thousands of Afghan patients to travel to India for medical treatment, despite the high costs. The Indian embassy in Kabul said it had issued 5,224 medical visas in 2008 - up from 4,658 in 2007 and 3,844 in 2006. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Patients_turn_to_India_for_treatment_20072009.mp3 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 08:57:29 GMT 04:28 Afghanistan Ali Minayar Major river washing away farmland and livelihoods Without retaining walls, the Amo river flowing in the north is inflicting major damage on local farming communities, as it regularly bursts its banks during the rainy season. Officials say the Amo - also knows by its old name the Oxus - has washed away hundreds of acres of agricultural land, affecting the livelihood of thousands of families. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. Without retaining walls, the Amo river flowing in the north is inflicting major damage on local farming communities, as it regularly bursts its banks during the rainy season. Officials say the Amo - also knows by its old name the Oxus - has washed away hundreds of acres of agricultural land, affecting the livelihood of thousands of families. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Major_river_washing_away_farmland_and_livelihoods11_19072009.mp3 Sun, 19 Jul 2009 10:10:58 GMT 06:13 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Rural women largely ignore family planning services Family planning services are available in over 90 percent of the country's health facilities, but few women use them in rural areas, according to the Ministry of Public Health. UN reports say Afghanistan has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world with 24,000 preventable childbirth-related deaths every year). IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Family planning services are available in over 90 percent of the country's health facilities, but few women use them in rural areas, according to the Ministry of Public Health. UN reports say Afghanistan has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world with 24,000 preventable childbirth-related deaths every year). IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Rural_women_largely_ignore_family_planning_services_13072009.mp3 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 11:07:18 GMT 07:07 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Drought, lack of investment hit lambskin trade Drought, conflict and lack of investment have caused a 20 percent fall in the export of products made from a silky lambskin known as karakul, and adversely affected the livelihoods of thousands, according to the Export Promotion Agency of Afghanistan (EPAA). IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Drought, conflict and lack of investment have caused a 20 percent fall in the export of products made from a silky lambskin known as karakul, and adversely affected the livelihoods of thousands, according to the Export Promotion Agency of Afghanistan (EPAA). IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Drought_lack_of_investment_hit_lambskin_trade_09072009.mp3 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 08:45:17 GMT 05:59 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Bumper wheat harvest could reduce food insecurity A bumper wheat harvest is expected this year, which may help bring down high food prices and reduce the widespread food insecurity, government officials say. More than eight million people across the country are estimated to need food aid. Masoud Popalzai reports. A bumper wheat harvest is expected this year, which may help bring down high food prices and reduce the widespread food insecurity, government officials say. More than eight million people across the country are estimated to need food aid. Masoud Popalzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Bumper_wheat_harvest_could_reduce_food_insecurity_07072009.mp3 Tue, 07 Jul 2009 06:58:19 GMT 04:00 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Flash floods damage road network Over 1,000 km of roads connecting main towns to villages have been damaged by severe floods in the past two months. According to disaster management officials, this has impeded people’s access to aid and health services and has led to a rise in food prices. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Over 1,000 km of roads connecting main towns to villages have been damaged by severe floods in the past two months. According to disaster management officials, this has impeded people’s access to aid and health services and has led to a rise in food prices. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Flash_floods_damage_road_network_05072009.mp3 Sun, 05 Jul 2009 09:44:48 GMT 04:49 Afghanistan Ali Minayar Major river washing away farmland and livelihoods Without retaining walls, the Amu river flowing in the north is inflicting major damage on local farming communities, as it regularly bursts its banks during the rainy season. Officials say the Amu - also knows by its old name the Oxus - has washed away hundreds of acres of agricultural land, affecting the livelihood of thousands of families. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. Without retaining walls, the Amu river flowing in the north is inflicting major damage on local farming communities, as it regularly bursts its banks during the rainy season. Officials say the Amu - also knows by its old name the Oxus - has washed away hundreds of acres of agricultural land, affecting the livelihood of thousands of families. IRIN’s Ali Minayar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Major_river_washing_away_farmland_and_livelihoods_02072009.mp3 Thu, 02 Jul 2009 06:35:04 GMT 06:08 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Two million school children lack clean water Nearly two out of the country’s six million children in school do not have access to safe drinking water, according to the UN children’s fund. There are concerns over likely disease outbreaks, such as diarrhoea, as the weather becomes hotter. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Nearly two out of the country’s six million children in school do not have access to safe drinking water, according to the UN children’s fund. There are concerns over likely disease outbreaks, such as diarrhoea, as the weather becomes hotter. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Two_million_school_children_lack_clean_water_30062009.mp3 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 10:02:13 GMT 05:35 Afghanistan Ahamd Zia Entezar Little scope to absorb big return of Afghan refugees The return of a large number of refugees from Pakistan could create a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, the government has warned, as there is no capacity to absorb them back home. Some two million Afghan refugees live in Pakistan, where some have been displaced by recent fighting in the northwest. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. The return of a large number of refugees from Pakistan could create a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, the government has warned, as there is no capacity to absorb them back home. Some two million Afghan refugees live in Pakistan, where some have been displaced by recent fighting in the northwest. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Little_scope_to_absorb_big_return_of_Afghan_refugees_25062009.mp3 Thu, 25 Jun 2009 09:38:13 GMT 04:02 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Kabul’s main hospital has no clean water Hospital officials say there is no clean drinking water at the capital’s main hospital treating patients with infectious diseases, putting thousands of patients and visitors at risk. IRINs Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Hospital officials say there is no clean drinking water at the capital’s main hospital treating patients with infectious diseases, putting thousands of patients and visitors at risk. IRINs Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Kabul_s_main_hospital_has_no_clean_water_25062009.mp3 Thu, 25 Jun 2009 06:45:08 GMT 02:54 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Wheat more expensive in Afghanistan than elsewhere – WFP Wheat prices in Afghanistan in April were 65 percent higher than average international prices, 56 percent higher than in India and 18 percent higher than in neighbouring Pakistan, according to a WFP survey. Despite a 45 percent drop in the price of wheat flour since April 2008, food is still unaffordable for millions of Afghans. IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. Wheat prices in Afghanistan in April were 65 percent higher than average international prices, 56 percent higher than in India and 18 percent higher than in neighbouring Pakistan, according to a WFP survey. Despite a 45 percent drop in the price of wheat flour since April 2008, food is still unaffordable for millions of Afghans. IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Wheat_more_expensive_in_Afghanistan_than_elsewhere__WFP_22062009.mp3 Mon, 22 Jun 2009 09:20:15 GMT 05:30 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai Locals have vital role in aid delivery – ARCS While insecurity diminishing the humanitarian space in Afghanistan some aid agencies ask locals to assist them in aid delivery. Afghanistan Red Crescent Society says local people can play a vital role in aid delivery and distribution in the unsecured areas where aid bodies have limited or no access. IRIN’s Noorullah Stanikzai reports. While insecurity diminishing the humanitarian space in Afghanistan some aid agencies ask locals to assist them in aid delivery. Afghanistan Red Crescent Society says local people can play a vital role in aid delivery and distribution in the unsecured areas where aid bodies have limited or no access. IRIN’s Noorullah Stanikzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Locals_have_vital_role_in_aid_delivery__ARCS_17062009.mp3 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:29:01 GMT 04:27 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Anargul, “Self-immolation is the worst” Anargul, 25, set herself ablaze in Herat Province, western Afghanistan, in a bid to end her misery, and ended up with burns to her chest, belly, neck, hands and face. She told IRIN about her ordeal and why her attempted suicide has worsened her plight. Anargul, 25, set herself ablaze in Herat Province, western Afghanistan, in a bid to end her misery, and ended up with burns to her chest, belly, neck, hands and face. She told IRIN about her ordeal and why her attempted suicide has worsened her plight. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Anargul__Self_immolation_is_the_worst_11062009.mp3 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 06:44:35 GMT 02:19 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Norway focuses aid on Faryab province Faryab province has received some $100 million in aid from the Norwegian government over the past six years, spent mostly on education and rural development. But still people in Faryab say food insecurity and unemployment are their main problems. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Faryab province has received some $100 million in aid from the Norwegian government over the past six years, spent mostly on education and rural development. But still people in Faryab say food insecurity and unemployment are their main problems. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Norway_focuses_aid_on_Faryab_province_10062009.mp3 Wed, 10 Jun 2009 07:06:22 GMT 05:17 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Health officials call on HIV positive to be alert over TB People living with HIV and with suspected tuberculosis symptoms are being urged by health officials to go to hospital for quick diagnosis and treatment. TB can be devastating for those infected by HIV, though the stigma surrounding the virus deters patients from coming forward. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. People living with HIV and with suspected tuberculosis symptoms are being urged by health officials to go to hospital for quick diagnosis and treatment. TB can be devastating for those infected by HIV, though the stigma surrounding the virus deters patients from coming forward. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Health_officials_call_on_HIV_positive_to_be_alert_over_TB_04062009.mp3 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 11:08:36 GMT 06:01 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Fighting and natural disasters increase displacement The number of internally displaced in Afghanistan is increasing due to conflict, air strikes, natural disasters, and poverty, government officials and the UN say. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. The number of internally displaced in Afghanistan is increasing due to conflict, air strikes, natural disasters, and poverty, government officials and the UN say. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Fighting_and_natural_disasters_increase_displacement_02062009.mp3 Tue, 02 Jun 2009 07:15:09 GMT 04:13 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Using clinics as polling stations "not a good idea" - ICRC The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has expressed concern over the use of health facilities for voter registration or as polling stations in Afghanistan's upcoming presidential elections, saying this could jeopardise the security of health workers and put patients at risk. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has expressed concern over the use of health facilities for voter registration or as polling stations in Afghanistan's upcoming presidential elections, saying this could jeopardise the security of health workers and put patients at risk. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Using_clinics_as_polling_stations_not_a_good_idea__ICRC_28052009.mp3 Thu, 28 May 2009 10:21:05 GMT 03:23 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Lack of safe drinking water in Kabul Seven out of every 10 inhabitants of Kabul City do not have access to clean drinking water, Kabul Municipality officials estimate. They are warning of a looming crisis if the issue is not properly addressed in the next three years. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Seven out of every 10 inhabitants of Kabul City do not have access to clean drinking water, Kabul Municipality officials estimate. They are warning of a looming crisis if the issue is not properly addressed in the next three years. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Lack_of_safe_drinking_water_in_Kabul_27052009.mp3 Wed, 27 May 2009 11:16:39 GMT 05:37 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Flood emergency declared Floods in various parts of the country have killed more than 100 people and caused major economic losses in some provinces. Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority has declared a state of emergency and says it is working round the clock to respond to the needs of affected people. But the flood victims are calling for emergency aid, as IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Floods in various parts of the country have killed more than 100 people and caused major economic losses in some provinces. Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority has declared a state of emergency and says it is working round the clock to respond to the needs of affected people. But the flood victims are calling for emergency aid, as IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Flood_emergency_declared_26052009.mp3 Tue, 26 May 2009 10:09:24 GMT 02:31 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai Kuchis and Hazaras may fight again, human rights group warns Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission has warned that tensions may erupt between Hazara locals and Kuchi nomads in central parts of the country. Conflict over land and grazing has resulted in deadly fighting between the tribes over the past three years. Government officials have acknowledged their failure to settle the ongoing dispute. IRIN’s Noorullah Stanikzai reports. Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission has warned that tensions may erupt between Hazara locals and Kuchi nomads in central parts of the country. Conflict over land and grazing has resulted in deadly fighting between the tribes over the past three years. Government officials have acknowledged their failure to settle the ongoing dispute. IRIN’s Noorullah Stanikzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Kuchis_and_Hazaras_may_fight_again_human_rights_group_warns_26052009.mp3 Tue, 26 May 2009 07:01:24 GMT 04:40 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Farmers hit by more flooding Heavy rain and flash floods have caused extensive damage to agricultural land and livestock losses across Afghanistan, leaving hundreds of rural families in need of assistance, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Heavy rain and flash floods have caused extensive damage to agricultural land and livestock losses across Afghanistan, leaving hundreds of rural families in need of assistance, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Farmers_hit_by_more_flooding_24052009.mp3 Sun, 24 May 2009 09:03:28 GMT 03:24 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Food-for-work projects for 800,000 Afghans More than 800,000 Afghans are getting food in return for their work on local development projects. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports on the impact of the food-for-work scheme. More than 800,000 Afghans are getting food in return for their work on local development projects. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports on the impact of the food-for-work scheme. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Food_for_work_projects_for_800_000_Afghans_21052009.mp3 Thu, 21 May 2009 05:04:22 GMT 05:16 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai Health and sanitation woes in makeshift IDP camps Poor sanitation is threatening the lives of huge numbers of displaced people living in makeshift camps across the country. Health workers say conditions for at least a quarter of a million such people are unacceptable. IRIN’s Noorullah Stanikzai reports. Poor sanitation is threatening the lives of huge numbers of displaced people living in makeshift camps across the country. Health workers say conditions for at least a quarter of a million such people are unacceptable. IRIN’s Noorullah Stanikzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Health_and_sanitation_woes_in_makeshift_IDP_camps_19052009.mp3 Tue, 19 May 2009 07:42:19 GMT 05:23 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Food aid not reaching most vulnerable women and children More than half a million of the most vulnerable women and children in Afghanistan are yet to receive vital food aid, despite an emergency appeal for the funds needed. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. More than half a million of the most vulnerable women and children in Afghanistan are yet to receive vital food aid, despite an emergency appeal for the funds needed. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Food_aid_not_reaching_most_vulnerable_women_and_children_05052009.mp3 Tue, 05 May 2009 04:11:32 GMT 05:14 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Cold snap brings rise in pneumonia cases Western Ghor province has been experiencing unusually cold weather over the past month. Up to 40 pneumonia patients, mostly children, are being brought to the provincial hospital every day. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Western Ghor province has been experiencing unusually cold weather over the past month. Up to 40 pneumonia patients, mostly children, are being brought to the provincial hospital every day. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Cold_snap_brings_rise_in_pneumonia_cases_30042009.mp3 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 12:31:38 GMT 04:00 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Insecurity, lack of cash threaten development projectsd Lack of funds and insecurity are disrupting projects planned by the National Solidarity Programme, a national community-based development initiative. The government says the programme needs $200 million to complete 20,000 small projects in the coming five months. IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. Lack of funds and insecurity are disrupting projects planned by the National Solidarity Programme, a national community-based development initiative. The government says the programme needs $200 million to complete 20,000 small projects in the coming five months. IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Insecurity_lack_of_cash_threaten_development_projects_27042009.mp3 Mon, 27 Apr 2009 11:10:22 GMT 05:22 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Poor families’ bad diet exacerbates health problems Impoverished Afghan families are being forced to buy cheap food such as spoiled meat despite the health risks, government health official say. IRN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Impoverished Afghan families are being forced to buy cheap food such as spoiled meat despite the health risks, government health official say. IRN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Poor_families_bad_diet_exacerbates_health_problems_26042009.mp3 Sun, 26 Apr 2009 11:22:04 GMT 03:27 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Drug addicts’ long wait for treatment Government centres offering rehabilitation treatment for drug addicts are unable to keep pace with demand. The centres treat 20 patients a month, but officials say more than 10 times that number are asking for help. IRN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Government centres offering rehabilitation treatment for drug addicts are unable to keep pace with demand. The centres treat 20 patients a month, but officials say more than 10 times that number are asking for help. IRN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Drug_addicts_long_wait_for_treatment_23042009.mp3 Thu, 23 Apr 2009 06:26:36 GMT 05:27 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Shelter, water urgently needed in quake-affected Nangarhar Hundreds of earthquake-affected people in Nangarhar province, eastern Afghanistan, are in urgent need of shelter and drinking water, aid workers and local residents say. Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority’s latest figures show 21 people were killed, 59 wounded and some 500 families affected by the quake. IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. Hundreds of earthquake-affected people in Nangarhar province, eastern Afghanistan, are in urgent need of shelter and drinking water, aid workers and local residents say. Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority’s latest figures show 21 people were killed, 59 wounded and some 500 families affected by the quake. IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Shelter_water_urgently_needed_in_quake_affected_Nangarhar_20042009.mp3 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 12:54:08 GMT 04:19 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Millions of children shut out of school Some five million school-aged children are thought to be deprived of education in Afghanistan today. While child rights groups say the government is not doing enough, education officials defend their own efforts and say they need more resources. IRINs Masooma Mohammadi reports. Some five million school-aged children are thought to be deprived of education in Afghanistan today. While child rights groups say the government is not doing enough, education officials defend their own efforts and say they need more resources. IRINs Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Millions_of_children_shut_out_of_school_20042009.mp3 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 07:18:24 GMT 07:35 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Hepatitis B cases on the rise Local officials have expressed concern over dozens of new cases of hepatitis B in northern and southwestern Afghanistan. They say lack of awareness about the disease and inadequate prevention measures are to blame. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. Local officials have expressed concern over dozens of new cases of hepatitis B in northern and southwestern Afghanistan. They say lack of awareness about the disease and inadequate prevention measures are to blame. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Hepatitis_B_cases_on_the_rise_16042009.mp3 Thu, 16 Apr 2009 05:32:31 GMT 05:54 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Thousands of illegal dwellings prone to natural disasters Huge numbers of illegally constructed homes pose a threat to the families living in them, according to the government, and are especially prone to being washed away in heavy rains and floods. Officials in Kabul say 70 per cent of homes in the city do not comply with legal standards. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Huge numbers of illegally constructed homes pose a threat to the families living in them, according to the government, and are especially prone to being washed away in heavy rains and floods. Officials in Kabul say 70 per cent of homes in the city do not comply with legal standards. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Thousand1.mp3 Tue, 14 Apr 2009 09:59:32 GMT 03:54 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Thousands of illegal dwellings prone to natural disasters Huge numbers of illegally constructed homes pose a threat to the families living in them, according to the government, and are especially prone to being washed away in heavy rains and floods. Officials in Kabul say 70 per cent of homes in the city do not comply with legal standards. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Huge numbers of illegally constructed homes pose a threat to the families living in them, according to the government, and are especially prone to being washed away in heavy rains and floods. Officials in Kabul say 70 per cent of homes in the city do not comply with legal standards. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Thousands_of_illegal_dwellings_prone_to_natural_disasters_14042009.mp3 Tue, 14 Apr 2009 09:56:31 GMT 03:54 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Heavy rains cause mayhem Flash floods due to heavy rains have killed 10 people and damaged hundreds of homes in the central Daikundi, southern Kandahar, western Herat and northern Jawzjan provinces during the two weeks. Local officials warn of shortages of food and clean water and the risk of disease in flood-affected districts. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Flash floods due to heavy rains have killed 10 people and damaged hundreds of homes in the central Daikundi, southern Kandahar, western Herat and northern Jawzjan provinces during the two weeks. Local officials warn of shortages of food and clean water and the risk of disease in flood-affected districts. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Heavy_rains_cause_mayhem_14042009.mp3 Tue, 14 Apr 2009 06:51:30 GMT 04:04 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Better preparations to fight crop disease and locusts The government says it is well prepared this year to tackle locusts and plant diseases that threaten crops. Annual losses due to these threats are felt hard by farmers, though no data is available to quantify the exact cost. IRIN's Masooma Mohammdi reports. The government says it is well prepared this year to tackle locusts and plant diseases that threaten crops. Annual losses due to these threats are felt hard by farmers, though no data is available to quantify the exact cost. IRIN's Masooma Mohammdi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Better_preparations_to_fight_crop_disease_and_locusts_09042009.mp3 Thu, 09 Apr 2009 10:03:56 GMT 06:05 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Growing number of Afghans lack health care – Ministry Over 600,000 Afghans lack basic healthcare services due to attacks on healthcare facilities and health workers - a figure that has doubled since 2007, according to the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH). Health officials are calling on all Afghans and warring parties, especially the insurgents, to understand the neutrality of health centres. IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. Over 600,000 Afghans lack basic healthcare services due to attacks on healthcare facilities and health workers - a figure that has doubled since 2007, according to the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH). Health officials are calling on all Afghans and warring parties, especially the insurgents, to understand the neutrality of health centres. IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Growing_number_of_Afghans_lack_health_care__Ministry_08042009.mp3 Wed, 08 Apr 2009 09:43:32 GMT 05:38 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Lack of funds hinder the efforts of women's ministry Officials at Afghanistan's Ministry of Women’s Affairs (MoWA) say that they are not among high priority ministries and since MoWA is not an implementing body, it receives fewer resources. MoWA officials say inadequate resources affect their efforts to improve women’s situation. According to experts, low capacity in resource spending, lack of investment in bodies working for women's issue and lack of coordination between them are among the major challenges they face. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Officials at Afghanistan's Ministry of Women’s Affairs (MoWA) say that they are not among high priority ministries and since MoWA is not an implementing body, it receives fewer resources. MoWA officials say inadequate resources affect their efforts to improve women’s situation. According to experts, low capacity in resource spending, lack of investment in bodies working for women's issue and lack of coordination between them are among the major challenges they face. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Lack_of_funds_hinder_the_efforts_of_women_s_ministry_05042009.mp3 Sun, 05 Apr 2009 11:28:24 GMT 07:34 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai Returnees, displaced communities at higher risk of landmines Afghanistan marked the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance to Mine Action on 4 April amid reports that landmines and other explosives kill 2-3 people daily in the country. The UN Mine Action Centre for Afghanistan (UNMACA) says most of the victims are returnees or internally displaced persons (IDPs) who have little or no awareness about mine risk. Last year, mines and other explosives claimed the lives of 752 people, most of them children, officials say. Demining agencies in Afghanistan say US$ 500 million is needed to clear all mines from the country by 2013. IRIN’s Noorullah Stanikzai reports. Afghanistan marked the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance to Mine Action on 4 April amid reports that landmines and other explosives kill 2-3 people daily in the country. The UN Mine Action Centre for Afghanistan (UNMACA) says most of the victims are returnees or internally displaced persons (IDPs) who have little or no awareness about mine risk. Last year, mines and other explosives claimed the lives of 752 people, most of them children, officials say. Demining agencies in Afghanistan say US$ 500 million is needed to clear all mines from the country by 2013. IRIN’s Noorullah Stanikzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Returnees_displaced_communities_at_higher_risk_of_landmines_05042009.mp3 Sun, 05 Apr 2009 07:18:55 GMT 05:28 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai Negotiations reopen dozens of schools in south The reopening of 81 schools in the volatile southern provinces has enabled over 50,000 students to reclaim their right to educations, according to Afghan Ministry of Education (MoE). These schools were shut due to attacks and intimidations by insurgents in the last four years. The breakthrough has been achieved through sensitive negotiations initiated by the MoE and conducted between local tribal elders, religious scholars and insurgent groups. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. The reopening of 81 schools in the volatile southern provinces has enabled over 50,000 students to reclaim their right to educations, according to Afghan Ministry of Education (MoE). These schools were shut due to attacks and intimidations by insurgents in the last four years. The breakthrough has been achieved through sensitive negotiations initiated by the MoE and conducted between local tribal elders, religious scholars and insurgent groups. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Negotiations_reopen_dozens_of_schools_in_south_30032009.mp3 Mon, 30 Mar 2009 06:37:43 GMT 04:03 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar MAIL forecasts good harvest in 2009 The Afghan Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) forecasts that this year’s impact of drought will be less than that of 2008. According to MAIL officials, current assessments show that the amount of rain-drop is better and it will increase agricultural harvest. But some farmers say that rain was not the only problem, but lack of improved seeds, agriculture tools and proper irrigation system are also important factors for poor crops. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. The Afghan Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) forecasts that this year’s impact of drought will be less than that of 2008. According to MAIL officials, current assessments show that the amount of rain-drop is better and it will increase agricultural harvest. But some farmers say that rain was not the only problem, but lack of improved seeds, agriculture tools and proper irrigation system are also important factors for poor crops. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/MAIL_forecasts_good_harvest_in_2009_29032009.mp3 Sun, 29 Mar 2009 05:33:06 GMT 04:25 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Planning a child? Then avoid the winter months Health specialists are advising couples to plan pregnancies so the birth does not fall in the cold winter months to save lives. From November to April, heavy snow falls blocks many roads and hinders access to life-saving medical care. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Health specialists are advising couples to plan pregnancies so the birth does not fall in the cold winter months to save lives. From November to April, heavy snow falls blocks many roads and hinders access to life-saving medical care. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Planning_a_child_Then_avoid_the_winter_months_25032009.mp3 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 05:13:50 GMT 05:16 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Lucrative fruit farming devastated by years of conflict Large communities of Afghan farmers used to earn a good living from growing and exporting fresh and dried fruits, but conflict has eroded this once thriving industry. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Large communities of Afghan farmers used to earn a good living from growing and exporting fresh and dried fruits, but conflict has eroded this once thriving industry. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Lucrative_fruit_farming_devastated_by_years_of_conflict_23032009.mp3 Mon, 23 Mar 2009 11:25:31 GMT 05:34 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Cold season takes its toll on health Health facilities across the country have been inundated with patients for the last two months, with as many as 2,000 a day suffering from respiratory diseases. The Ministry of Public Health reports between one and four deaths a day. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Health facilities across the country have been inundated with patients for the last two months, with as many as 2,000 a day suffering from respiratory diseases. The Ministry of Public Health reports between one and four deaths a day. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Cold_season_takes_its_toll_on_health_23032009.mp3 Mon, 23 Mar 2009 06:24:54 GMT 04:34 Afghanistan Ayub Farhat Deforestation marches on Almost all the forest in eastern Nangarhar province has disappeared over the last two decades, with just an estimated 10 per cent left. Experts say this environmental degradation will have a huge impact on local people’s lives, as IRIN correspondent Ayub Farhat reports. Almost all the forest in eastern Nangarhar province has disappeared over the last two decades, with just an estimated 10 per cent left. Experts say this environmental degradation will have a huge impact on local people’s lives, as IRIN correspondent Ayub Farhat reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Deforestation_marches_on_22032009.mp3 Sun, 22 Mar 2009 06:12:32 GMT 04:55 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Government promises improved flood response Government officials say they have sent food and non-food items to 17 flood-prone provinces as the rainy season begins. Ten people were killed and hundreds of homes destroyed in flash floods in Balkh and Herat earlier this year. But the government says it is better prepared than in previous years to respond to flood disaster, as IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. Government officials say they have sent food and non-food items to 17 flood-prone provinces as the rainy season begins. Ten people were killed and hundreds of homes destroyed in flash floods in Balkh and Herat earlier this year. But the government says it is better prepared than in previous years to respond to flood disaster, as IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Government_promises_improved_flood_response_18032009.mp3 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 11:30:09 GMT 05:01 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Deported children vulnerable to abuse Some 20 Afghan children are deported each day from Iran through the border town of Islam Qala. Most of them arrive home unaccompanied. Human rights groups warn that with no monitoring in place, these children are at risk of falling prey to sexual abusers and traffickers. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Some 20 Afghan children are deported each day from Iran through the border town of Islam Qala. Most of them arrive home unaccompanied. Human rights groups warn that with no monitoring in place, these children are at risk of falling prey to sexual abusers and traffickers. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Deported_children_vulnerable_to_abuse_17032009.mp3 Tue, 17 Mar 2009 09:51:19 GMT 03:38 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Refugees to return from Pakistan – but can they absorbed back home? After a winter pause, UNHCR resumes on 15 March its drive for the voluntary repatriation of refugees from Pakistan. UNHCR plans to help some 220,000 Afghans to return home by the end of 2009. But the Afghan Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation says it does not have the capacity to absorb large numbers of returnee, as IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. After a winter pause, UNHCR resumes on 15 March its drive for the voluntary repatriation of refugees from Pakistan. UNHCR plans to help some 220,000 Afghans to return home by the end of 2009. But the Afghan Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation says it does not have the capacity to absorb large numbers of returnee, as IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Refugees_to_return_from_Pakistan__but_can_they_absorbed_back_home_15032009.mp3 Sun, 15 Mar 2009 06:11:14 GMT 06:04 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Broken promises on winter food aid for the hungry Less than one third of the food the government promised to deliver to hungry communities during the winter has been delivered. The government is being accused of poor planning and incompetence, as IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. Less than one third of the food the government promised to deliver to hungry communities during the winter has been delivered. The government is being accused of poor planning and incompetence, as IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Broken_promises_on_winter_food_aid_for_the_hungry_12032009.mp3 Thu, 12 Mar 2009 14:10:54 GMT 07:09 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Displaced from conflict in northwest in urgent need of aid Fighting in Moqor district has forced hundreds of people to flee their homes in this part of northwestern Badghis Province. The Afghan Red Crescent says the displaced are living in desperate conditions in Qala-i-Naw, the provincial capital, where they need urgent help. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Fighting in Moqor district has forced hundreds of people to flee their homes in this part of northwestern Badghis Province. The Afghan Red Crescent says the displaced are living in desperate conditions in Qala-i-Naw, the provincial capital, where they need urgent help. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Displaced_from_conflict_in_northwest_in_urgent_need_of_aid_05032009.mp3 Thu, 05 Mar 2009 11:35:38 GMT 02:45 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai War plagues the lives of civilians The worsening armed conflict in Afghanistan is taking an ever increasing toll on civilians, aid agencies report. The war killed over 2,100 non-combatants in 2008 and displaced thousands of others, as well as preventing the delivery of essential services. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports on the effects of conflict on civilians in the volatile southern provinces. The worsening armed conflict in Afghanistan is taking an ever increasing toll on civilians, aid agencies report. The war killed over 2,100 non-combatants in 2008 and displaced thousands of others, as well as preventing the delivery of essential services. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports on the effects of conflict on civilians in the volatile southern provinces. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/War_plagues_the_lives_of_civilians_04032009.mp3 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 05:16:18 GMT 05:08 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Red Crescent welfare houses overflowing with poor and hungry More than 400 people a day for the past four months have been crowding the welfare houses (“marastoon”) run by the Afghan Red Crescent Society. The five “marastoon” in five provinces are intended to help the most vulnerable in society, including orphans and the disabled. But last year’s severe drought, the cold winter and high food prices have forced many more people into situations of abject poverty, and the welfare houses are now full. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. More than 400 people a day for the past four months have been crowding the welfare houses (“marastoon”) run by the Afghan Red Crescent Society. The five “marastoon” in five provinces are intended to help the most vulnerable in society, including orphans and the disabled. But last year’s severe drought, the cold winter and high food prices have forced many more people into situations of abject poverty, and the welfare houses are now full. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Red_Crescent_welfare_houses_overflowing_with_poor_and_hungry_03032009.mp3 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 07:28:38 GMT 05:32 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Animal husbandry eroded over two harsh decades Livestock rearing and the livelihoods of herder communities have been severely eroded over the past 20 years, due to extreme weather, shrinking pastures, and rampant cattle diseases. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Livestock rearing and the livelihoods of herder communities have been severely eroded over the past 20 years, due to extreme weather, shrinking pastures, and rampant cattle diseases. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Animal_husbandry_eroded_over_two_harsh_decades_02032009.mp3 Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:44:03 GMT 04:25 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Snowstorms cause death and displacement in north Three people are reported dead after heavy snowstorms hit Paryan district of northern Panjshir province. Local government officials say many families have been displaced by the snowfalls that have affected some 46,000 people in 111 villages in the mountainous province. IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. Three people are reported dead after heavy snowstorms hit Paryan district of northern Panjshir province. Local government officials say many families have been displaced by the snowfalls that have affected some 46,000 people in 111 villages in the mountainous province. IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Snowstorms_cause_death_and_displacement_in_north_26022009.mp3 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 08:51:25 GMT 04:01 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Scarce water resources wasted through poor management Up to 70 per cent of Afghanistan’s water is being lost due to poor management of the precious resource. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. Up to 70 per cent of Afghanistan’s water is being lost due to poor management of the precious resource. IRIN’s Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Scarce_water_resources_wasted_through_poor_management_26022009.mp3 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 07:03:50 GMT 05:49 Afghanistan Ayub Farhat Plight of child workers on Pakistani border Up to 1,600 Afghan children, aged from eight to 17, are involved in wage labour in the Torkham border area, according to aid agencies and provincial authorities. The children are being paid to carry or push heavy goods and sometimes to smuggle goods over the border. According to child rights activists, they are vulnerable to physical, psychological and sexual abuse. IRIN correspondent Ayub Farhat reports. Up to 1,600 Afghan children, aged from eight to 17, are involved in wage labour in the Torkham border area, according to aid agencies and provincial authorities. The children are being paid to carry or push heavy goods and sometimes to smuggle goods over the border. According to child rights activists, they are vulnerable to physical, psychological and sexual abuse. IRIN correspondent Ayub Farhat reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Plight_of_child_workers_on_Pakistani_border_24022009.mp3 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 07:33:37 GMT 07:00 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi How antenatal and postnatal care protects women and their babies Afghanistan has very high rates of maternal mortality, with many women dying from complications before, during and after childbirth. In this special programme by IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi, health experts answer questions from ordinary Afghan women in different provinces about antenatal and postnatal care. Afghanistan has very high rates of maternal mortality, with many women dying from complications before, during and after childbirth. In this special programme by IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi, health experts answer questions from ordinary Afghan women in different provinces about antenatal and postnatal care. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/How_antenatal_and_postnatal_care_protects_women_and_their_babies_22022009.mp3 Sun, 22 Feb 2009 05:14:43 GMT 07:32 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Little support for mental health Decades of war and related suffering have left many Afghans struggling to cope with deep emotional and psychological wounds. Yet the country offers little in the way of counseling and treatment for mental health conditions. Few resources are allocated by the government, as IRIN's Ahmad Zai Entezar reports. Decades of war and related suffering have left many Afghans struggling to cope with deep emotional and psychological wounds. Yet the country offers little in the way of counseling and treatment for mental health conditions. Few resources are allocated by the government, as IRIN's Ahmad Zai Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Little_support_for_mental_health_19022009.mp3 Thu, 19 Feb 2009 10:42:42 GMT 04:43 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Poor quality fuel leads to accidents The number of accidents in the home caused by poor quality gas and fuel products has risen substantially. Last month in Kabul, officials recorded 70 cases of women and children suffering burns from accidents involving cooking and heating products. There are calls for a ban on imports of cheap, potentially dangerous fuel products. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. The number of accidents in the home caused by poor quality gas and fuel products has risen substantially. Last month in Kabul, officials recorded 70 cases of women and children suffering burns from accidents involving cooking and heating products. There are calls for a ban on imports of cheap, potentially dangerous fuel products. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Poor_quality_fuel_leads_to_accidents_17022009.mp3 Tue, 17 Feb 2009 05:55:08 GMT 06:33 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi HIV risks for Afghan migrants in Iran Health officials have expressed concern about the high risk behaviour of Afghan male migrants in Iran and their exposure to HIV. Every year tens of thousands of illegal Afghan single male migrants are deported from Iran, where many have turned to drug abuse or commercial sex workers. They have little or no access to HIV/AIDS education and testing facilities. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. Health officials have expressed concern about the high risk behaviour of Afghan male migrants in Iran and their exposure to HIV. Every year tens of thousands of illegal Afghan single male migrants are deported from Iran, where many have turned to drug abuse or commercial sex workers. They have little or no access to HIV/AIDS education and testing facilities. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/HIV_risks_for_Afghan_migrants_in_Iran_12022009.mp3 Thu, 12 Feb 2009 06:41:49 GMT 05:48 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Child “slavery” on the rise Many Afghan children, girls and boys, are being forced into situations of virtual slavery in poor rural communities, according to child rights activists. Girls are being “sold” into marriage by heavily indebted parents, and boys too are being given away in bondage practices covered up as family affairs that prohibit state intervention. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Many Afghan children, girls and boys, are being forced into situations of virtual slavery in poor rural communities, according to child rights activists. Girls are being “sold” into marriage by heavily indebted parents, and boys too are being given away in bondage practices covered up as family affairs that prohibit state intervention. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Child_slavery_on_the_rise_11022009.mp3 Wed, 11 Feb 2009 05:44:04 GMT 05:40 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Complaints of poor quality food aid Afghan aid beneficiaries have complained about the poor quality of wheat distributed as emergency food aid in some areas of the country hit by bad winter weather. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Afghan aid beneficiaries have complained about the poor quality of wheat distributed as emergency food aid in some areas of the country hit by bad winter weather. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Complaints_of_poor_quality_food_aid_10022009.mp3 Tue, 10 Feb 2009 05:35:58 GMT 06:08 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai Rice production up in eastern province Local farmers produced five times more rice in 2008 as compared to the previous year. Agricultural officials attribute the dramatic increase to better seeds, technical input and favourable weather. The bumper harvest is a rare piece of good news in a country where drought, conflict and high food prices have pushed millions into food insecurity. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. Local farmers produced five times more rice in 2008 as compared to the previous year. Agricultural officials attribute the dramatic increase to better seeds, technical input and favourable weather. The bumper harvest is a rare piece of good news in a country where drought, conflict and high food prices have pushed millions into food insecurity. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Rice_production_up_in_eastern_province_08022009.mp3 Sun, 08 Feb 2009 07:08:06 GMT 04:48 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Humanitarian crisis averted, says Red Cross The International Committee of the Red Cross says there are no signs of large numbers of people abandoning their homes in the northern provinces this winter, as had been feared. IRIN's Masoud Popalzai reports. The International Committee of the Red Cross says there are no signs of large numbers of people abandoning their homes in the northern provinces this winter, as had been feared. IRIN's Masoud Popalzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Humanitarian_crisis_averted_says_Red_Cross_03022009.mp3 Tue, 03 Feb 2009 05:13:54 GMT 05:34 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Can the country pay for its health care? Health care has greatly improved over the last five years but as more Afghans enjoy basic health services there are concerns over future funding. More than 70% of basic health services are delivered by donor-funded aid agencies. What will happen if those agencies leave? IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Health care has greatly improved over the last five years but as more Afghans enjoy basic health services there are concerns over future funding. More than 70% of basic health services are delivered by donor-funded aid agencies. What will happen if those agencies leave? IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Can_the_1.mp3 Sun, 01 Feb 2009 08:07:11 GMT 07:45 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Snow blocks roads to four provinces Winter weather has virtually cut off the provinces of Ghor, Daikundi, Bamyan and Nooristan over the past month, bringing huge problems for local people in accessing food and basic health care. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. Winter weather has virtually cut off the provinces of Ghor, Daikundi, Bamyan and Nooristan over the past month, bringing huge problems for local people in accessing food and basic health care. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Snow_blocks_roads_to_four_provinces_26012009.mp3 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 11:24:37 GMT 04:49 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Lack of women doctors contributes to childbirth deaths Paktika province has a population of more than 180,000 women and no female doctors to serve them. Health officials say the lack of female medics is one of the main factors leading to high maternal mortality rates. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. Paktika province has a population of more than 180,000 women and no female doctors to serve them. Health officials say the lack of female medics is one of the main factors leading to high maternal mortality rates. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Lack_of_women_doctors_contributes_to_childbirth_deaths_27012009.mp3 Tue, 27 Jan 2009 09:11:02 GMT 05:03 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Militia groups still hold sway Self-declared local commanders continue to hold power in many parts of Afghanistan despite a programme to disarm illegal armed groups. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entizar investigates why. Self-declared local commanders continue to hold power in many parts of Afghanistan despite a programme to disarm illegal armed groups. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entizar investigates why. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Militia_groups_still_hold_sway_26012009.mp3 Mon, 26 Jan 2009 08:11:17 GMT 04:39 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai Extra vaccine added to child immunisation programme The government has added the Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) vaccine to the regular infant immunisation programme. The vaccine provides protection against a bacteria that is a leading cause of childhood meningitis and pneumonia. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. The government has added the Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) vaccine to the regular infant immunisation programme. The vaccine provides protection against a bacteria that is a leading cause of childhood meningitis and pneumonia. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Extra_vaccine_added_to_child_immunisation_programme_22012009.mp3 Thu, 22 Jan 2009 10:31:14 GMT 04:03 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai Returnees' children suffer pneumonia at Nangarhar camps Some 3,000 children have been diagnosed with pneumonia, with six reported deaths, in hospitals in Jalalabad, capital of eastern Nangahar province. Most are said to be the children of refugees returned from Pakistan and are living in tented settlements, where their parents cannot afford to keep them warm. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. Some 3,000 children have been diagnosed with pneumonia, with six reported deaths, in hospitals in Jalalabad, capital of eastern Nangahar province. Most are said to be the children of refugees returned from Pakistan and are living in tented settlements, where their parents cannot afford to keep them warm. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Returnees_children_suffer_pneumonia_at_Nangarhar_camps_21012009.mp3 Wed, 21 Jan 2009 05:45:49 GMT 05:28 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Red Crescent drafts earthquake plans For the first time Afghanistan has a comprehensive earthquake contingency plan, developed by the Afghan Red Crescent Society. There have been three earthquakes over the last month in different parts of the country. It is hoped the new plan will help reduce the risks in future. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. For the first time Afghanistan has a comprehensive earthquake contingency plan, developed by the Afghan Red Crescent Society. There have been three earthquakes over the last month in different parts of the country. It is hoped the new plan will help reduce the risks in future. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Red_Crescent_drafts_earthquake_plans_20012009.mp3 Tue, 20 Jan 2009 10:21:47 GMT 06:13 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Kabul city lacks green “lungs” Environmentalists say Kabul does not have enough green areas and trees, which is exacerbating the problem of air pollution and the risks to city dwellers’ health. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Environmentalists say Kabul does not have enough green areas and trees, which is exacerbating the problem of air pollution and the risks to city dwellers’ health. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Kabul_city_lacks_green_lungs__15012009.mp3 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 05:38:07 GMT 04:34 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Stray dogs raise fear of rabies in Kabul Fears are growing in Kabul of the spread of rabies, with the increasing number of rabid dogs roaming densely populated residential areas. If a person is bitten by a rabid dog it can prove fatal. The city’s municipal authorities are looking at ways of controlling the stray dogs. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Fears are growing in Kabul of the spread of rabies, with the increasing number of rabid dogs roaming densely populated residential areas. If a person is bitten by a rabid dog it can prove fatal. The city’s municipal authorities are looking at ways of controlling the stray dogs. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Stray_do1.mp3 Wed, 14 Jan 2009 09:16:50 GMT 03:37 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Stray dogs raise fear of rabies in Kabul Fears are growing in Kabul of the spread of rabies, with the increasing number of rabid dogs roaming densely populated residential areas. If a person is bitten by a rabid dog it can prove fatal. The city’s municipal authorities are looking at ways of controlling the stray dogs. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Fears are growing in Kabul of the spread of rabies, with the increasing number of rabid dogs roaming densely populated residential areas. If a person is bitten by a rabid dog it can prove fatal. The city’s municipal authorities are looking at ways of controlling the stray dogs. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Stray_dogs_raise_fear_of_rabies_in_Kabul_14012009.mp3 Wed, 14 Jan 2009 09:07:02 GMT 03:37 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Imams preaching for birth gaps and legal-age marriage Religious leaders are being enlisted in the campaign to reduce maternal mortality. Every year 17,000 women die due to pregnancy-related complications, according to the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF). Religious leaders are being urged to explain to their congregations the benefits of marrying at the legal age and spacing pregnancies. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. Religious leaders are being enlisted in the campaign to reduce maternal mortality. Every year 17,000 women die due to pregnancy-related complications, according to the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF). Religious leaders are being urged to explain to their congregations the benefits of marrying at the legal age and spacing pregnancies. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Imams_preaching_for_birth_gaps_and_legal_age_marriage_12012009.mp3 Mon, 12 Jan 2009 09:51:44 GMT 05:21 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai HIV-positive patients to get ARV therapy for first time Forty out of the 504 people officially diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in Afghanistan will be provided with standard antiretroviral therapy (ARVs) as the country tries to enhance HIV control activities. According to the Ministry of Public Health, the country is introducing ARVs for the first time. IRIN's Masoud Popalzai reports. Forty out of the 504 people officially diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in Afghanistan will be provided with standard antiretroviral therapy (ARVs) as the country tries to enhance HIV control activities. According to the Ministry of Public Health, the country is introducing ARVs for the first time. IRIN's Masoud Popalzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/HIV_positive_patients_to_get_ARV_therapy_for_first_time_08012009.mp3 Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:33:30 GMT 03:52 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi "Local integration" key to displacement problems – report Aid agencies and the government must focus on integrating displaced people into their host communities, according to a report by an internally displaced persons (IDP) task force comprising government bodies, NGOs and the UN. Currently 235,000 IDPs live in different provinces in Afghanistan. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. Aid agencies and the government must focus on integrating displaced people into their host communities, according to a report by an internally displaced persons (IDP) task force comprising government bodies, NGOs and the UN. Currently 235,000 IDPs live in different provinces in Afghanistan. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/_Local_i1.mp3 Thu, 08 Jan 2009 06:47:13 GMT 06:05 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi "Local integration" key to displacement problems – report Aid agencies and the government must focus on integrating displaced people into their host communities, according to a report by an internally displaced persons (IDP) task force comprising government bodies, NGOs and the UN. Currently 235,000 IDPs live in different provinces in Afghanistan. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. Aid agencies and the government must focus on integrating displaced people into their host communities, according to a report by an internally displaced persons (IDP) task force comprising government bodies, NGOs and the UN. Currently 235,000 IDPs live in different provinces in Afghanistan. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/_Local_integration_key_to_displacement_problems__report_08012009.mp3 Thu, 08 Jan 2009 06:30:49 GMT 06:03 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Complaints of unfair aid distribution Vulnerable people in some parts of the country are complaining of being missed out at food distributions organized by local tribal elders and local government bodies. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. Vulnerable people in some parts of the country are complaining of being missed out at food distributions organized by local tribal elders and local government bodies. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Complaints_of_unfair_aid_distribution_06012009.mp3 Tue, 06 Jan 2009 09:15:42 GMT 04:51 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Gul Bigum: "I cannot feed my children because drought killed all our animals" According to the Afghan Ministry of Women's Affairs, thousands of female heads of households are suffering chronic poverty due to conflict, illiteracy and unemployment. Officials say that recent drought has affected these families worse than others. Gul Bigum, 48, is the sole breadwinner for her three children in the northern province of Sar-i-Pul. She lost her cattle and had to leave her village three months back because of the drought. She told IRIN her story of daily struggle to feed her children. According to the Afghan Ministry of Women's Affairs, thousands of female heads of households are suffering chronic poverty due to conflict, illiteracy and unemployment. Officials say that recent drought has affected these families worse than others. Gul Bigum, 48, is the sole breadwinner for her three children in the northern province of Sar-i-Pul. She lost her cattle and had to leave her village three months back because of the drought. She told IRIN her story of daily struggle to feed her children. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Gul_Bigum__I_cannot_feed_my_children_because_drought_killed_all_our_animals_04012009.mp3 Sun, 04 Jan 2009 07:44:59 GMT 03:37 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Food for work projects stop during winter Over four million people in different parts of the country have benefited from WFP's food for work projects this year. These projects are implemented in the rural districts by the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD). The projects’ beneficiaries, however, say they are concerned to hear that the MRRD says it will stop food for work projects during the winter season. IRIN's Masooma Mohammdi reports. Over four million people in different parts of the country have benefited from WFP's food for work projects this year. These projects are implemented in the rural districts by the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD). The projects’ beneficiaries, however, say they are concerned to hear that the MRRD says it will stop food for work projects during the winter season. IRIN's Masooma Mohammdi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Food_for_work_projects_stop_during_winter_31122008.mp3 Wed, 31 Dec 2008 06:17:20 GMT 04:55 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Breadwinning women suffer chronic poverty, MoWA report Thousands of female breadwinners are suffering chronic poverty due to war, illiteracy and unemployment, the Ministry of Women's Affairs (MoWA) says. The term ‘chronically poor’ refers to those whose monthly income for the past five consecutive years has been less than US$ 14. A research carried out by MoWA has found that these women are faced with many difficulties such as food insecurity, their children’s lack of access to education and health and other social problems. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… Thousands of female breadwinners are suffering chronic poverty due to war, illiteracy and unemployment, the Ministry of Women's Affairs (MoWA) says. The term ‘chronically poor’ refers to those whose monthly income for the past five consecutive years has been less than US$ 14. A research carried out by MoWA has found that these women are faced with many difficulties such as food insecurity, their children’s lack of access to education and health and other social problems. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Breadwinning_women_suffer_chronic_poverty_MoWA_report_30122008.mp3 Tue, 30 Dec 2008 10:43:12 GMT 04:55 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Concerns over shortage of certified seeds Farmers and aid workers have voiced concern about the lack of certified wheat seeds for the next cultivation season. The Afghan Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock says that about 20 percent of 2.5 million Afghan farmers in 14 provinces (mostly in drought-affected areas) would receive some kind of assistance, including certified seeds and fertilisers. IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. Farmers and aid workers have voiced concern about the lack of certified wheat seeds for the next cultivation season. The Afghan Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock says that about 20 percent of 2.5 million Afghan farmers in 14 provinces (mostly in drought-affected areas) would receive some kind of assistance, including certified seeds and fertilisers. IRIN’s Masoud Popalzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Concerns_over_shortage_of_certified_seeds_29122008.mp3 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 12:00:05 GMT 03:32 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Heavy snowfalls block food aid delivery in Daikundi Food aid has not reached Daikondi province in central Afghanistan as heavy snowfalls have blocked roads leading to the province. Local residents and officials say they will face multiple problems if assistance does not reach them on time. Over 20,000 families are in dire need of food aid in Daikondi, according to local officials. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… Food aid has not reached Daikondi province in central Afghanistan as heavy snowfalls have blocked roads leading to the province. Local residents and officials say they will face multiple problems if assistance does not reach them on time. Over 20,000 families are in dire need of food aid in Daikondi, according to local officials. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Heavy_snowfalls_block_food_aid_delivery_in_Daikundi_29122008.mp3 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 07:19:07 GMT 05:31 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Tenth of country’s livestock lost Extreme weather conditions and lack of food and water have claimed the lives of more than 1.5 million cattle, sheep and goats – some 10 per cent of the country’s livestock. Amir Mohammad, a sheep farmer from Sar-e-Pul province, talked to IRIN's Masoud Popalzai in the local sheep market. Extreme weather conditions and lack of food and water have claimed the lives of more than 1.5 million cattle, sheep and goats – some 10 per cent of the country’s livestock. Amir Mohammad, a sheep farmer from Sar-e-Pul province, talked to IRIN's Masoud Popalzai in the local sheep market. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Tenth_of_country_s_livestock_lost_23122008.mp3 Tue, 23 Dec 2008 11:06:47 GMT 02:17 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai Concerns over TB outbreak in winter Afghan health officials are warning of the likely spread of tuberculosis (TB) as families seek warmth this winter by living and sleeping in one room. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. Afghan health officials are warning of the likely spread of tuberculosis (TB) as families seek warmth this winter by living and sleeping in one room. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Concerns_over_TB_outbreak_in_winter_18122008.mp3 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 11:31:04 GMT 05:30 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar How food insecurity affects your health Certain cheap and accessible foods may be beneficial in ensuring good health, especially where other food products are in short supply. In this programme by IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar, health experts answer questions from local people in different provinces on food and health. Certain cheap and accessible foods may be beneficial in ensuring good health, especially where other food products are in short supply. In this programme by IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar, health experts answer questions from local people in different provinces on food and health. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/How_food_insecurity_affects_your_health_18122008.mp3 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 07:54:39 GMT 04:09 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Landmines endanger lives in Farah province Deadly landmines, apparently planted by anti-government elements, are causing fear and concern to residents of Farah Province. In this report by IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Etezar, a resident of Bakwa begins by sharing his fears about the risks to people’s lives. Deadly landmines, apparently planted by anti-government elements, are causing fear and concern to residents of Farah Province. In this report by IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Etezar, a resident of Bakwa begins by sharing his fears about the risks to people’s lives. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Landmines_endanger_lives_in_Farah_province_16122008.mp3 Tue, 16 Dec 2008 09:14:32 GMT 04:52 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi One mother’s struggle in the face of drought and hunger Nazira, 35, lives in Chemtal district of northern Balkh province, one of the areas worst hit by drought this year. In this programme, Nazira tells IRIN how she struggles to make ends meets and feed her seven children. Nazira, 35, lives in Chemtal district of northern Balkh province, one of the areas worst hit by drought this year. In this programme, Nazira tells IRIN how she struggles to make ends meets and feed her seven children. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/One_mother_s_struggle_in_the_face_of_drought_and_hunger_16122008.mp3 Tue, 16 Dec 2008 08:34:55 GMT 03:21 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai Reconstruction projects shut down in 40 districts Worsening security has forced the closure of reconstruction and development projects in 11 provinces, including the volatile Helmand, Zabul and Uruzgan, according to officials. Locals claim that insurgents have tried to divert resources intended for such projects for military purposes. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. Worsening security has forced the closure of reconstruction and development projects in 11 provinces, including the volatile Helmand, Zabul and Uruzgan, according to officials. Locals claim that insurgents have tried to divert resources intended for such projects for military purposes. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Reconstruction_projects_shut_down_in_40_districts_16122008.mp3 Tue, 16 Dec 2008 05:15:45 GMT 05:02 Afghanistan Parwin Arzo Families suffer as drought hits northern Balkh More than 70,000 families are in dire need of food aid in northern Balkh, one of the provinces hardest hit by drought. IRIN correspondent Parwin Arzo visited Chemtal district of Balkh province and sent this report. More than 70,000 families are in dire need of food aid in northern Balkh, one of the provinces hardest hit by drought. IRIN correspondent Parwin Arzo visited Chemtal district of Balkh province and sent this report. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Families1.mp3 Sun, 14 Dec 2008 12:00:58 GMT 05:01 Afghanistan Parwin Arzo Families suffer as drought hits northern Balkh More than 70,000 families are in dire need of food aid in northern Balkh, one of the provinces hardest hit by drought. IRIN correspondent Parwin Arzo visited Chemtal district of Balkh province and sent this report. More than 70,000 families are in dire need of food aid in northern Balkh, one of the provinces hardest hit by drought. IRIN correspondent Parwin Arzo visited Chemtal district of Balkh province and sent this report. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Families_suffer_as_drought_hits_northern_Balkh_14122008.mp3 Sun, 14 Dec 2008 11:37:35 GMT 05:01 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Ghulam Haidar’s story: defying disability Many disabled people are forced by poverty and lack of opportunity to beg on the streets of Afghanistan’s major towns and cities. To mark the International Day of Disabled Persons on 3 December, IRIN’s Noorullah Stanikzai spoke to Ghulam Haidar and asked him to describe the challenges affecting his daily life. Many disabled people are forced by poverty and lack of opportunity to beg on the streets of Afghanistan’s major towns and cities. To mark the International Day of Disabled Persons on 3 December, IRIN’s Noorullah Stanikzai spoke to Ghulam Haidar and asked him to describe the challenges affecting his daily life. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Ghulam_Haidar_s_story_defying_disability_04122008.mp3 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 06:30:31 GMT 02:05 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Hunger may cause deaths this winter, government warns More than 1.6 million children under five and hundreds of thousands of vulnerable women are exposed to acute malnutrition and some could die this winter due to hunger and lack of medical care, the Afghan Public Health Ministry has warned. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. More than 1.6 million children under five and hundreds of thousands of vulnerable women are exposed to acute malnutrition and some could die this winter due to hunger and lack of medical care, the Afghan Public Health Ministry has warned. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Hunger_may_cause_deaths_this_winter_government_warns_01122008.mp3 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 12:59:29 GMT 04:48 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai School student "refugees" struggling in Lashkargah Armed attacks on schools, teachers and students in troubled Helmand province have forced large numbers of children to flee to neighbouring Lashkargah, hoping to be able to continue their schooling there. But Lashkargah is struggling to absorb this influx, leaving many of these children in very difficult circumstances. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. Armed attacks on schools, teachers and students in troubled Helmand province have forced large numbers of children to flee to neighbouring Lashkargah, hoping to be able to continue their schooling there. But Lashkargah is struggling to absorb this influx, leaving many of these children in very difficult circumstances. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/School_student_refugees_struggling_in_Lashkargah_01122008.mp3 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 12:19:01 GMT 04:34 Afghanistan Masooma Mobile teams to avert health problems this winter Mobile teams are to provide emergency health services in rural areas cut off by snow this winter, the government says. More than 2,000 people died last winter of conditions related to the cold. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. Mobile teams are to provide emergency health services in rural areas cut off by snow this winter, the government says. More than 2,000 people died last winter of conditions related to the cold. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Mobile_teams_to_avert_health_problems_this_winter_01122008.mp3 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 09:58:05 GMT 05:35 Afghanistan Khalid Nahiz Badghis IDPS need food, shelter During last three months more than 1,000 farmer families have been displaced due to drought and food insecurity from western Badghis province, according to provincial officials. The displaced families have gone to western Herat province. Now they are complaining about lack of shelter and food. Government officials in Herat say that they need urgent humanitarian assistance, as IRIN stringer Khalid Nahiz reports… During last three months more than 1,000 farmer families have been displaced due to drought and food insecurity from western Badghis province, according to provincial officials. The displaced families have gone to western Herat province. Now they are complaining about lack of shelter and food. Government officials in Herat say that they need urgent humanitarian assistance, as IRIN stringer Khalid Nahiz reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Badghis_IDPS_need_food_shelter_01122008.mp3 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:50:15 GMT 04:39 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Landmines pose threats to returnees Landmines and Explosive Remnants of War (ERWs) pose serious threats to thousands of returnees in the newly established settlements in different parts of Afghanistan. Two children reportedly died and three others were wounded in an explosion in northern Baghlan Province, in October. Landmines and ERWs have also been reported in other returnees' settlements in the eastern provinces of Nangarhar and Kunar. Provincial officials said mine-clearing agencies had been asked to re-examine areas in Baghlan and Nangarhar provinces for any hazardous explosives. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… Landmines and Explosive Remnants of War (ERWs) pose serious threats to thousands of returnees in the newly established settlements in different parts of Afghanistan. Two children reportedly died and three others were wounded in an explosion in northern Baghlan Province, in October. Landmines and ERWs have also been reported in other returnees' settlements in the eastern provinces of Nangarhar and Kunar. Provincial officials said mine-clearing agencies had been asked to re-examine areas in Baghlan and Nangarhar provinces for any hazardous explosives. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Landmines_and_ERWs_pose_threats_to_returnees_12112008.mp3 Fri, 14 Nov 2008 07:35:08 GMT 06:08 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Volunteer health workers mobilised Thousands of trained, volunteer health workers are to be mobilised to provide health care in rural areas this winter. A health ministry scheme has trained more than 20,000 men and women volunteers across the country. The initiative aims to contribute to reducing Afghanistan’s high rate of mother and child deaths. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… Thousands of trained, volunteer health workers are to be mobilised to provide health care in rural areas this winter. A health ministry scheme has trained more than 20,000 men and women volunteers across the country. The initiative aims to contribute to reducing Afghanistan’s high rate of mother and child deaths. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Volunteer_health_workers_mobilised_13112008.mp3 Thu, 13 Nov 2008 10:08:23 GMT 06:27 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Highway truck attacks on the rise Armed attacks on goods vehicles have increased dramatically this year, especially on trucks plying the Kabul-Herat highway. Trucking companies say goods are being stolen or burnt by armed insurgents believing the supplies are destined for the international military forces. Officials say this is contributing to the spiraling of food prices in the south, as IRIN's Zia Entezar reports… Armed attacks on goods vehicles have increased dramatically this year, especially on trucks plying the Kabul-Herat highway. Trucking companies say goods are being stolen or burnt by armed insurgents believing the supplies are destined for the international military forces. Officials say this is contributing to the spiraling of food prices in the south, as IRIN's Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Highway_truck_attacks_on_the_rise_12112008.mp3 Wed, 12 Nov 2008 12:17:08 GMT 04:50 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Call for aid to avert livestock crisis Hundreds of thousands of animals could be lost in the coming six months unless aid agencies urgently provide animal feed, vaccines and water, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation has warned. Over 1.5 million animals (cattle, sheep and goats) – an estimated 10 percent of the country's livestock – have died over the past two years due to cold weather, diseases and lack of fodder and water, according to aid agencies. Some 495,000 herder households rely on livestock as their primary source of food and income. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… Hundreds of thousands of animals could be lost in the coming six months unless aid agencies urgently provide animal feed, vaccines and water, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation has warned. Over 1.5 million animals (cattle, sheep and goats) – an estimated 10 percent of the country's livestock – have died over the past two years due to cold weather, diseases and lack of fodder and water, according to aid agencies. Some 495,000 herder households rely on livestock as their primary source of food and income. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Call_for_aid_to_avert_livestock_crisis_in_Afghanistan_09112008.mp3 Mon, 10 Nov 2008 10:53:12 GMT 04:01 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai Government to keep roads open in winter The ministries of public works and rural rehabilitation have promosed to keep all roads across the country open during winter. Heavy snows blocked roads in some provinces and impeded aid delivery to vulnerable communities last winter. The Afghanistan National Disasters Management Authority says humanitarian needs have increased due to drought, conflict and high food prices and road blockages in cold winter months could prompt a crisis. IRIN's Noorullah Stankzai reports… The ministries of public works and rural rehabilitation have promosed to keep all roads across the country open during winter. Heavy snows blocked roads in some provinces and impeded aid delivery to vulnerable communities last winter. The Afghanistan National Disasters Management Authority says humanitarian needs have increased due to drought, conflict and high food prices and road blockages in cold winter months could prompt a crisis. IRIN's Noorullah Stankzai reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Government_to_keep_roads_open_in_winter_10112008.mp3 Mon, 10 Nov 2008 10:51:06 GMT 05:46 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Urgent need to pre-position food aid The Afghan government and aid agencies have not so far pre-positioned adequate relief supplies in some of the most vulnerable areas, increasing the risk of a humanitarian disaster this winter, the Afghanistan National Disasters Management Authority (ANDMA) has said. According to ANDMA heavy snowfall, extremely cold weather, diseases and lack of access to adequate food killed over 2,000 mostly elderly people and children last winter. Officials at ANDMA said 100,000 tones of food aid was needed in the provinces where snowfall blocks roads during winter. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… The Afghan government and aid agencies have not so far pre-positioned adequate relief supplies in some of the most vulnerable areas, increasing the risk of a humanitarian disaster this winter, the Afghanistan National Disasters Management Authority (ANDMA) has said. According to ANDMA heavy snowfall, extremely cold weather, diseases and lack of access to adequate food killed over 2,000 mostly elderly people and children last winter. Officials at ANDMA said 100,000 tones of food aid was needed in the provinces where snowfall blocks roads during winter. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Urgent_need_to_pre_position_food_aid_03112008.mp3 Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:08:28 GMT 03:55 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Afghan Red Crescent short of cash The Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) says it does not have adequate funding to respond to rising humanitarian needs in the country. The national aid body which has over 40,000 volunteers across the country says drought, conflict and high food prices have exacerbated the living conditions of many people and have made them dependent on aid. Unlike other international aid agencies the ARCS says it has access to all areas in the country and can easily deliver assistances to needy communities. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… The Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) says it does not have adequate funding to respond to rising humanitarian needs in the country. The national aid body which has over 40,000 volunteers across the country says drought, conflict and high food prices have exacerbated the living conditions of many people and have made them dependent on aid. Unlike other international aid agencies the ARCS says it has access to all areas in the country and can easily deliver assistances to needy communities. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/National_aid_body_needs_funding_02112008.mp3 Mon, 03 Nov 2008 07:47:03 GMT 06:11 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Afghan Red Crescent short of cash The Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) says it does not have adequate funding to respond to rising humanitarian needs in the country. The national aid body which has over 40,000 volunteers across the country says drought, conflict and high food prices have exacerbated the living conditions of many people and have made them dependent on aid. Unlike other international aid agencies the ARCS says it has access to all areas in the country and can easily deliver assistances to needy communities. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… The Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) says it does not have adequate funding to respond to rising humanitarian needs in the country. The national aid body which has over 40,000 volunteers across the country says drought, conflict and high food prices have exacerbated the living conditions of many people and have made them dependent on aid. Unlike other international aid agencies the ARCS says it has access to all areas in the country and can easily deliver assistances to needy communities. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Afghan_national_aid_body_needs_funding_02112008.mp3 Mon, 03 Nov 2008 07:46:29 GMT 06:11 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Classrooms built for thousands of students in Faryab Province The Norwegian Provincial Reconstruction Team has funded the construction of 82 schools in Faryab Province, northern Afghanistan, which will accommodate more than 1,000 students, according to provincial authorities. Hundreds of schools in different parts of the country do not have buildings and tens of thousands of students study in the open air, the Education Ministry says. The Norwegian model could also work in other provinces provided that donors determine one or two development priorities and channel aid and expertise accordingly, experts said. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… The Norwegian Provincial Reconstruction Team has funded the construction of 82 schools in Faryab Province, northern Afghanistan, which will accommodate more than 1,000 students, according to provincial authorities. Hundreds of schools in different parts of the country do not have buildings and tens of thousands of students study in the open air, the Education Ministry says. The Norwegian model could also work in other provinces provided that donors determine one or two development priorities and channel aid and expertise accordingly, experts said. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Thousands_of_students_find_classrooms_in_Faryab_Province_02112008.mp3 Mon, 03 Nov 2008 07:45:31 GMT 05:17 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Security concerns over voter registration process The decision by the Afghan government to use hundreds of medical and educational facilities as voter registration centres has sparked concern about potential security risks to aid workers, students and other civilians. Taliban insurgents have repeatedly threatened they will disrupt the election process by attacking electoral sites and election workers. The insurgents fired a rocket on a health facility used as a voter registration centre in Ghazni Province on 20 October, killing one and wounding several others, local media reported. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… The decision by the Afghan government to use hundreds of medical and educational facilities as voter registration centres has sparked concern about potential security risks to aid workers, students and other civilians. Taliban insurgents have repeatedly threatened they will disrupt the election process by attacking electoral sites and election workers. The insurgents fired a rocket on a health facility used as a voter registration centre in Ghazni Province on 20 October, killing one and wounding several others, local media reported. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Security1.mp3 Sun, 26 Oct 2008 11:02:14 GMT 05:14 Afghanistan Noorullah Stanikzai Disability deprives children of education About 200,000 children with disability are living in Afghanistan, but only 25 percent of them attend schools, according to aid agencies. There are virtually no facilities at educational centers around the country for disabled children. The Ministry of Education says its strategy to promote education among disabled children has not been implemented effectively owing to various problems. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports… About 200,000 children with disability are living in Afghanistan, but only 25 percent of them attend schools, according to aid agencies. There are virtually no facilities at educational centers around the country for disabled children. The Ministry of Education says its strategy to promote education among disabled children has not been implemented effectively owing to various problems. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Disability_deprives_children_of_education_in_Afghanistan_20102008.mp3 Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:30:20 GMT 05:31 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Ministry warns of severe food shortage Afghanistan faces a deficit of two million tonnes of staple food - primarily wheat flour and rice - to feed millions of vulnerable people in the coming six months, the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) has said. Drought has led to the failure of up to 90 percent of rain-fed agriculture and also damaged irrigated land, according to officials. Spiraling food prices and drought have pushed over five million Afghans into high-risk food-insecurity over the past 18 months, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) reported in July. Aid agencies such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and Oxfam international have already warned about a possible humanitarian crisis this winter in some parts of the country. On the occasion of World Food Day, 16 October, IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar has produced this report… Afghanistan faces a deficit of two million tonnes of staple food - primarily wheat flour and rice - to feed millions of vulnerable people in the coming six months, the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) has said. Drought has led to the failure of up to 90 percent of rain-fed agriculture and also damaged irrigated land, according to officials. Spiraling food prices and drought have pushed over five million Afghans into high-risk food-insecurity over the past 18 months, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) reported in July. Aid agencies such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and Oxfam international have already warned about a possible humanitarian crisis this winter in some parts of the country. On the occasion of World Food Day, 16 October, IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar has produced this report… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Afghan_agriculture_ministry_warns_of_severe_food_shortage_16102008.mp3 Thu, 16 Oct 2008 09:26:58 GMT 04:12 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi War and poverty contribute to human trafficking Over three decades of conflict, poverty, insecurity and lack of social and economic opportunities have contributed to increased human trafficking in Afghanistan. According to the International Organisation for Migration the country has been a source, transit route and destination for human traffickers. The Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission calls on the government to apply drastic anti-trafficking measures. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… Over three decades of conflict, poverty, insecurity and lack of social and economic opportunities have contributed to increased human trafficking in Afghanistan. According to the International Organisation for Migration the country has been a source, transit route and destination for human traffickers. The Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission calls on the government to apply drastic anti-trafficking measures. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/War_and_poverty_contribute_to_human_trafficking_in_Afghanistan_16102008.mp3 Thu, 16 Oct 2008 06:39:21 GMT 05:43 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Hand washing can reduce child mortality - health experts Tens of thousands of children across Afghanistan will wash their hands with soap on 15 October, the Global Hand Washing Day. The Ministry of Public Health says hand washing can reduce child mortality and morbidity by up to 50 percent. Preventable diseases such as diarrhoea kill about 50,000 children in the country every year, according to the UN Children's Fund. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… Tens of thousands of children across Afghanistan will wash their hands with soap on 15 October, the Global Hand Washing Day. The Ministry of Public Health says hand washing can reduce child mortality and morbidity by up to 50 percent. Preventable diseases such as diarrhoea kill about 50,000 children in the country every year, according to the UN Children's Fund. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Hand_was1.mp3 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 13:38:18 GMT 05:15 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Medical waste from hospitals dumped in cities causing health hazard, experts say Waste products from hospitals in cities in Afghanistan are not being properly disposed of and pose serious health risks, experts warn. Medical waste such as used needles and syringes, soiled dressings, and even body parts, are dumped in open rubbish areas around hospitals, where poor children often scavenge for food and reusable items. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… Waste products from hospitals in cities in Afghanistan are not being properly disposed of and pose serious health risks, experts warn. Medical waste such as used needles and syringes, soiled dressings, and even body parts, are dumped in open rubbish areas around hospitals, where poor children often scavenge for food and reusable items. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Medical_1.mp3 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:45:12 GMT 05:50 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Medical waste from hospitals dumped in cities causing health hazard, experts say Waste products from the health care system in major cities in Afghanistan are not properly managed and pose serious health risks, health experts warn. Medical waste such as used needles and syringes, soiled dressings, and even body parts, are dumped in open rubbish areas around hospitals, where poor children often scavenge for food and reusable items. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… Waste products from the health care system in major cities in Afghanistan are not properly managed and pose serious health risks, health experts warn. Medical waste such as used needles and syringes, soiled dressings, and even body parts, are dumped in open rubbish areas around hospitals, where poor children often scavenge for food and reusable items. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Medical_wastes_prevalent_cause_diseases_in_Afghanistan_14102008.mp3 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:43:19 GMT 05:50 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Call for urgent food aid in Daikundi and Bamyan Recurrent drought and high food prices have affected many parts of Afghanistan. Daikundi and Bamyan, in central areas, are among the most affected provinces, according to the Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority. Aid agencies warn if food aid is not delivered quickly to vulnerable families in Daikundi and Bamyan many people would face severe food shortage and probably starve during winter. Food-related displaced have already been reported in parts of Daikundi, local officials said. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… Recurrent drought and high food prices have affected many parts of Afghanistan. Daikundi and Bamyan, in central areas, are among the most affected provinces, according to the Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority. Aid agencies warn if food aid is not delivered quickly to vulnerable families in Daikundi and Bamyan many people would face severe food shortage and probably starve during winter. Food-related displaced have already been reported in parts of Daikundi, local officials said. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Call_for_urgent_food_aid_in_Afghanistan_s_Daikundi_and_Bamyan_13102008.mp3 Mon, 13 Oct 2008 11:47:59 GMT 06:32 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Tashbeh, 40, "I failed to escape from hunger" Drought and worsening food insecurity have pushed some vulnerable families to abandon their homes in different districts of Badakahshan Province, northeastern Afghanistan, in search for food, according to provincial authorities. About 300 families have reportedly left their homes in Argu District over past two months, officials said. Tashbeh, 40, is the head of her five-member family. The inability to feed her children and the fear that winter would worsen their condition forced them to leave their home and migrate to neighbouring Iran. Undertaking various difficulties Tashbeh's family had barely stepped into Iran when they were deported by the Iranian border police. At her return to home she has found things worse than before. Here is a brief account of Tashbeh's onerous trip to Iran and current situation in her own words in Dari… Drought and worsening food insecurity have pushed some vulnerable families to abandon their homes in different districts of Badakahshan Province, northeastern Afghanistan, in search for food, according to provincial authorities. About 300 families have reportedly left their homes in Argu District over past two months, officials said. Tashbeh, 40, is the head of her five-member family. The inability to feed her children and the fear that winter would worsen their condition forced them to leave their home and migrate to neighbouring Iran. Undertaking various difficulties Tashbeh's family had barely stepped into Iran when they were deported by the Iranian border police. At her return to home she has found things worse than before. Here is a brief account of Tashbeh's onerous trip to Iran and current situation in her own words in Dari… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Drought_and_worsening_food_insecurity_have_pushed_some_vulnerable_families_05102008.mp3 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 10:22:19 GMT 04:45 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Domestic dairy production increases markedly in Afghanistan Domestic dairy productions have increased significantly in Afghanistan over the past six years and a well-managed marketing of these products have improved the livelihoods of many livestock owners in the country, the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation says. The organisation said it purchases more than 3,000 litres of fresh milk on daily basis and offers cheese, butter, yogurt and other products in a chain of shops in Kabul, Balkh and Kunduz provinces. Officials in the ministry of agriculture hope progress in domestic animals' productions will help tackle poverty among communities involved in animals' husbandry and contribute to overall economic growth in the country. IRIN's radio reporter Masooma Mohammadi reports… Domestic dairy productions have increased significantly in Afghanistan over the past six years and a well-managed marketing of these products have improved the livelihoods of many livestock owners in the country, the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation says. The organisation said it purchases more than 3,000 litres of fresh milk on daily basis and offers cheese, butter, yogurt and other products in a chain of shops in Kabul, Balkh and Kunduz provinces. Officials in the ministry of agriculture hope progress in domestic animals' productions will help tackle poverty among communities involved in animals' husbandry and contribute to overall economic growth in the country. IRIN's radio reporter Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Domestic_dairy_productions_increased_markedly_in_Afghanistan__FAO_07102008.mp3 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 10:21:21 GMT 05:14 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Domestic dairy production increases markedly in Afghanistan Domestic dairy productions have increased significantly in Afghanistan over the past six years and a well-managed marketing of these products have improved the livelihoods of many livestock owners in the country, the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation says. The organisation said it purchases more than 3,000 litres of fresh milk on daily basis and offers cheese, butter, yogurt and other products in a chain of shops in Kabul, Balkh and Kunduz provinces. Officials in the ministry of agriculture hope progress in domestic animals' productions will help tackle poverty among communities involved in animals' husbandry and contribute to overall economic growth in the country. IRIN's radio reporter Masooma Mohammadi reports… Domestic dairy productions have increased significantly in Afghanistan over the past six years and a well-managed marketing of these products have improved the livelihoods of many livestock owners in the country, the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation says. The organisation said it purchases more than 3,000 litres of fresh milk on daily basis and offers cheese, butter, yogurt and other products in a chain of shops in Kabul, Balkh and Kunduz provinces. Officials in the ministry of agriculture hope progress in domestic animals' productions will help tackle poverty among communities involved in animals' husbandry and contribute to overall economic growth in the country. IRIN's radio reporter Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Domestic1.mp3 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 10:20:58 GMT 05:14 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Calls for a new law to tackle child sexual abuse Rights watchdogs call on the Afghan government to enforce a separate law in order to effectively tackle child sexual exploitation and rape. The victims of sexual abuse must also receive adequate support and protection, child rights activists said. Calls for a new law are made at a time as concerns are mounting about weak judicial procedures to penalize alleged abusers and criminals. At least 30 cases of rape and sexual violence have been reported by the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission over the past five months. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… Rights watchdogs call on the Afghan government to enforce a separate law in order to effectively tackle child sexual exploitation and rape. The victims of sexual abuse must also receive adequate support and protection, child rights activists said. Calls for a new law are made at a time as concerns are mounting about weak judicial procedures to penalize alleged abusers and criminals. At least 30 cases of rape and sexual violence have been reported by the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission over the past five months. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Calls_for_a_new_law_to_tackle_child_sexual_abuse_09102008.mp3 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 10:19:35 GMT 05:29 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Will midwife training program reduce childbirth deaths? The rate of births attended by skilled attendants has increased by 13% with comparison to last year, Ministry of Public Health says. A survey by MoPH shows that now 19% of births are attended by skilled attendants. Health officials say births attended by unskilled attendants as a major factor contribute to a high maternal mortality rate in the country. In the next 5 years, MoPH plans to train 8000 midwives to reduce the high maternal mortality rate. So far 2000 midwives have been trained nationwide. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports on how the program has been effective… The rate of births attended by skilled attendants has increased by 13% with comparison to last year, Ministry of Public Health says. A survey by MoPH shows that now 19% of births are attended by skilled attendants. Health officials say births attended by unskilled attendants as a major factor contribute to a high maternal mortality rate in the country. In the next 5 years, MoPH plans to train 8000 midwives to reduce the high maternal mortality rate. So far 2000 midwives have been trained nationwide. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports on how the program has been effective… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/The_rate_of_births_attended_by_skilled_23092008.mp3 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:33:55 GMT 05:25 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Water resources dry up Government officials say surface and underground water resources are drying up due drought in the past several years. A survey by Ministry of Water and Energy suggests 50-70% depletion in surface water resources due to drought and lack of seasonal rainfalls.Though Afghanistan enjoys a plenty of water resources, 70% of it goes waste. According to these officials the current depletion in water resources is associated with drought, lack of seasonal rainfalls and several other climate reasons. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… Government officials say surface and underground water resources are drying up due drought in the past several years. A survey by Ministry of Water and Energy suggests 50-70% depletion in surface water resources due to drought and lack of seasonal rainfalls.Though Afghanistan enjoys a plenty of water resources, 70% of it goes waste. According to these officials the current depletion in water resources is associated with drought, lack of seasonal rainfalls and several other climate reasons. IRIN’s Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Government_officials_say_surface_and_underground_water_14092008.mp3 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:19:18 GMT 04:06 Afghanistan Noorullha Stanikzai Dozens of schools closed due to insecurity The new educational year in the warm zones starts while some 600 schools in 45 districts are closed due to attacks by insurgency, officials from Ministry of Education say. Only in southern Zabul Province, 80% of schools are closed. While in Helmand, where 224 schools were open in 2002, only 58 are functioning now. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports… The new educational year in the warm zones starts while some 600 schools in 45 districts are closed due to attacks by insurgency, officials from Ministry of Education say. Only in southern Zabul Province, 80% of schools are closed. While in Helmand, where 224 schools were open in 2002, only 58 are functioning now. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/The_new_educational_year_in_the_warm_zones_15092008.mp3 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:18:53 GMT 05:39 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Drought depletes availability of safe water The current unprecedented drought has not only depleted water resources, but has also limited public access to safe water. UN's figures suggest that now only 23% of Afghan population has access to safe drinking water. Drought has also damaged rain-fed and irrigated crops in most of the provinces which would lead to shortage in food supplies.Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) says drought causes different health problems like skin and ophthalmic diseases, diarrhoea and malnutrition. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… The current unprecedented drought has not only depleted water resources, but has also limited public access to safe water. UN's figures suggest that now only 23% of Afghan population has access to safe drinking water. Drought has also damaged rain-fed and irrigated crops in most of the provinces which would lead to shortage in food supplies.Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) says drought causes different health problems like skin and ophthalmic diseases, diarrhoea and malnutrition. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/The_current_unprecedented_drought_16092008.mp3 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:06:23 GMT 04:47 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Educated mothers contribute to reducing child mortality, survey says A survey recently conducted by Bid Med, an international medical think thank, in Kabul City indicates that over 70% of diarrhoeal diseases in children are associated with uneducated mothers. According to Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) annually over 50,000 children die from diarrhoeal diseases. The survey, which was executed by Afghan and Japanese researchers, has found out that a lack of education of mothers is significantly linked with child health and nutrition variable in the country. Confirming the results of the survey MoPH says a lack of education of mothers not only results in dying children, but also claims the lives of mothers themselves. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… A survey recently conducted by Bid Med, an international medical think thank, in Kabul City indicates that over 70% of diarrhoeal diseases in children are associated with uneducated mothers. According to Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) annually over 50,000 children die from diarrhoeal diseases. The survey, which was executed by Afghan and Japanese researchers, has found out that a lack of education of mothers is significantly linked with child health and nutrition variable in the country. Confirming the results of the survey MoPH says a lack of education of mothers not only results in dying children, but also claims the lives of mothers themselves. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/A_survey_recently_conducted_by_Bid_Med_an_international_medical_think_thank_17092008.mp3 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:00:25 GMT 07:14 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Poor sanitation and bad toilets cause diseases in Kabul Rapid population expansion, poor sanitation, lack of canalization system in Afghan capital, Kabul, have become a humanitarian problem. Officials at the Kabul municipality say that lack of a proper canalization system in the city results in polluting water wells consumed by some 70% of Kabul residents for drinking purposes.According to Ministry of Public Health, most of Kabul's residents use traditional dry vault toilets. The sumps of these toilets are channeled to the streets, which cause the outbreak of cholera, diarrhoea, dysentery and eye diseases. According to the State of the World's Toilets 2007 report, about 92 percent of Afghanistan's estimated 26.6 million population do not have access to proper sanitation. This has placed the country at the top of the list of "the worst places in the world for sanitation". IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… Rapid population expansion, poor sanitation, lack of canalization system in Afghan capital, Kabul, have become a humanitarian problem. Officials at the Kabul municipality say that lack of a proper canalization system in the city results in polluting water wells consumed by some 70% of Kabul residents for drinking purposes.According to Ministry of Public Health, most of Kabul's residents use traditional dry vault toilets. The sumps of these toilets are channeled to the streets, which cause the outbreak of cholera, diarrhoea, dysentery and eye diseases. According to the State of the World's Toilets 2007 report, about 92 percent of Afghanistan's estimated 26.6 million population do not have access to proper sanitation. This has placed the country at the top of the list of "the worst places in the world for sanitation". IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Rapid_population_expansion_poor_sanitation_24092008.mp3 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 07:56:42 GMT 04:30 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Call for urgent food aid before snow cuts off Badakhshan Aid agencies in northeastern Badakhshan province warn that if food assistance is not delivered to vulnerable communities in remote districts of the province in one month, they will be displaced before winter arrives or face serious food shortages. Every year thousands of people in mountainous districts of Badakhshan face difficulties after snowfall blocks their roads starting from October. According to provincial officials, this year's severe drought and high food prices have exacerbated the situation. IRIN's Masoud Popalzai reports… Aid agencies in northeastern Badakhshan province warn that if food assistance is not delivered to vulnerable communities in remote districts of the province in one month, they will be displaced before winter arrives or face serious food shortages. Every year thousands of people in mountainous districts of Badakhshan face difficulties after snowfall blocks their roads starting from October. According to provincial officials, this year's severe drought and high food prices have exacerbated the situation. IRIN's Masoud Popalzai reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Aid_agen1.mp3 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 07:52:49 GMT 07:53 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai Call for urgent food aid before snow cuts off Badakhshan Aid agencies in northeastern Badakhshan province warn that if food aid is not delivered to vulnerable communities in remote districts of the province in one month, they will be displaced before winter arrives or face serious food shortages. Every year thousands of people in mountainous districts of Badakhshan face difficulties after snowfall blocks their roads from October. According to provincial officials, this year's severe drought and high food prices have exacerbated the situation. IRIN's Masoud Popalzai reports… Aid agencies in northeastern Badakhshan province warn that if food aid is not delivered to vulnerable communities in remote districts of the province in one month, they will be displaced before winter arrives or face serious food shortages. Every year thousands of people in mountainous districts of Badakhshan face difficulties after snowfall blocks their roads from October. According to provincial officials, this year's severe drought and high food prices have exacerbated the situation. IRIN's Masoud Popalzai reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Aid_agencies_in_northeastern_Badakhshan_province_25092008.mp3 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 07:49:32 GMT 07:53 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Increase in cases of rape against women and children Right groups, in Afghanistan, say lack of a specific rape punishment in country's legislations allows the perpetrator to live with impunity and results in increasing rape cases in the country. Since the beginning of this year the right entities have registered some 60 rape cases on women and children. Afghanistan penal code in article 429 determines over 7 years prison term for those who commit rape either on female or male victims. But the right groups say the sentence is too lenient. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… Right groups, in Afghanistan, say lack of a specific rape punishment in country's legislations allows the perpetrator to live with impunity and results in increasing rape cases in the country. Since the beginning of this year the right entities have registered some 60 rape cases on women and children. Afghanistan penal code in article 429 determines over 7 years prison term for those who commit rape either on female or male victims. But the right groups say the sentence is too lenient. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Right_groups_in_Afghanistan_25092008.mp3 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 07:45:58 GMT 03:43 Afghanistan Noorullha Stanikzai Children traumatised by war and violence Fighting and violence in different parts of the country have resulted in children suffering psychological problems, heath experts warn. People and children in particular are worst affected by armed conflict, casualties, strident explosions and other factors associated with war. Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) says it lacks the resources to assess the psychological effects of war on Afghan children. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports… Fighting and violence in different parts of the country have resulted in children suffering psychological problems, heath experts warn. People and children in particular are worst affected by armed conflict, casualties, strident explosions and other factors associated with war. Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) says it lacks the resources to assess the psychological effects of war on Afghan children. IRIN's Noorullah Stanikzai reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Fighting_and_violence_in_different_parts_11092008.mp3 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:56:32 GMT 05:45 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Desperate women burn themselves as a way out of life's problems In western Herat Province, women's self-immolation cases have increased by 50% in 4 months.Herat Hospital officials say from mid April to June they have registered forty seven cases of deliberately self-immolation cases of them 90 percent of victims lost their lives. Experts say different factors like lack of access to justice, illiteracy, chronic customs and discriminations against women and other socio-economic problems drive women to end their problems by committing self-immolation. IRIN's Khalid Nahiz reports… In western Herat Province, women's self-immolation cases have increased by 50% in 4 months.Herat Hospital officials say from mid April to June they have registered forty seven cases of deliberately self-immolation cases of them 90 percent of victims lost their lives. Experts say different factors like lack of access to justice, illiteracy, chronic customs and discriminations against women and other socio-economic problems drive women to end their problems by committing self-immolation. IRIN's Khalid Nahiz reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/In_weste1.mp3 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:53:01 GMT 06:25 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Desperate women burn themselves as a way out of life's problems In western Herat Province, women's self-immolation cases have increased by 50% in 4 months.Herat Hospital officials say from mid April to June they have registered forty seven cases of deliberately self-immolation cases of them 90 percent of victims lost their lives. Experts say different factors like lack of access to justice, illiteracy, chronic customs and discriminations against women and other socio-economic problems drive women to end their problems by committing self-immolation. IRIN's Khalid Nahiz reports… In western Herat Province, women's self-immolation cases have increased by 50% in 4 months.Herat Hospital officials say from mid April to June they have registered forty seven cases of deliberately self-immolation cases of them 90 percent of victims lost their lives. Experts say different factors like lack of access to justice, illiteracy, chronic customs and discriminations against women and other socio-economic problems drive women to end their problems by committing self-immolation. IRIN's Khalid Nahiz reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/In_western_Herat_Province_08092008.mp3 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:52:30 GMT 06:54 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi 70% of Afghans lack access to clean water - what's being done? Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) says over 70 percent of people in Afghanistan do not have access to clean water. Lack of clean water is believed to be a serious problem this year as the country is facing a severe drought in the past ten years. Now people in drought hit places do not have access to safe drinking water. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports on the consequences of clean water shortage on people's life and government response to the problem… Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) says over 70 percent of people in Afghanistan do not have access to clean water. Lack of clean water is believed to be a serious problem this year as the country is facing a severe drought in the past ten years. Now people in drought hit places do not have access to safe drinking water. IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports on the consequences of clean water shortage on people's life and government response to the problem… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Ministry_of_Public_Health_MoPH_says_over_70_percent_of_people_in_Afghanistan_08092008.mp3 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:50:59 GMT 04:28 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Q&A with expert on benefits of soya bean in reducing maternal and child deaths Soya-bean products (milk, flour and beans) are highly recommended by medical experts to vulnerable pregnant and lactating women who do not have access to adequate food and nutrition.The soya-bean is a species of legume which is considered a rich source of amino acids and protein, essential for human body, according to experts. Afghanistan has the second highest maternal and infant mortality rate in the world and poor nutrition is a major cause, according to health specialists. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar has asked a number of questions on the benifits and use of soya-bean from Dr Haroon Rasooli of the Nutrition & Education International … Soya-bean products (milk, flour and beans) are highly recommended by medical experts to vulnerable pregnant and lactating women who do not have access to adequate food and nutrition.The soya-bean is a species of legume which is considered a rich source of amino acids and protein, essential for human body, according to experts. Afghanistan has the second highest maternal and infant mortality rate in the world and poor nutrition is a major cause, according to health specialists. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar has asked a number of questions on the benifits and use of soya-bean from Dr Haroon Rasooli of the Nutrition & Education International … http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Soya_bean_products_milk_flour_and_beans_28082008.mp3 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:47:52 GMT 04:38 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Wind and dust storms cause sickness in Herat Unusually heavy winds and dust storms have caused health problems and have damaged farmlands in Afghanistan's western province of Herat. Provincial health officials said that seasonal winds have caused respiratory disorder and eye diseases among people. Environmental experts in pointed a number of reasons including global climate change, severe drought and widespread deforestation as main causes of worsened-off dust storms. IRIN's Khalid Nahiz reports… Unusually heavy winds and dust storms have caused health problems and have damaged farmlands in Afghanistan's western province of Herat. Provincial health officials said that seasonal winds have caused respiratory disorder and eye diseases among people. Environmental experts in pointed a number of reasons including global climate change, severe drought and widespread deforestation as main causes of worsened-off dust storms. IRIN's Khalid Nahiz reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Unusually_heavy_winds_and_dust_storms_28082008.mp3 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:46:41 GMT 04:34 Afghanistan Masooma Mohammadi Q&A with medical expert on HIV/AIDS Health specialists are concerned that prevalent lack of awareness about HIV/AIDS in Afghanistan could spread the virus rapidly. The country is also considered to be lacking adequate resources to tackle any HIV/AIDS emergency. There are 435 HIV/AIDS positive cases confirmed by the Ministry of Public Health and up to 2,500 others are estimated in through out the nation. IRIN's Masooma Mohamadi has collected a number of questions from different parts of the country to which Dr. Saifurrahman, Director of the National HIV/AIDS Control Program, has responded… Health specialists are concerned that prevalent lack of awareness about HIV/AIDS in Afghanistan could spread the virus rapidly. The country is also considered to be lacking adequate resources to tackle any HIV/AIDS emergency. There are 435 HIV/AIDS positive cases confirmed by the Ministry of Public Health and up to 2,500 others are estimated in through out the nation. IRIN's Masooma Mohamadi has collected a number of questions from different parts of the country to which Dr. Saifurrahman, Director of the National HIV/AIDS Control Program, has responded… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Health_specialists_are_concerned_that_prevalent_lack_of_awareness_about_HIV_AIDS_in_27082008.mp3 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:42:04 GMT 04:38 Afghanistan Masoud Popalzai "I lost my baby because I couldn't reach hospital" - Sharifa, aged 23 Badakhshan Province, northeastern Afghanistan, is estimated to have the highest maternal mortality rate in the world, according to health officials, largely due to lack of medical services, poverty and underdevelopment. Over 6,500 mothers die per 100,000 live births in Badakhshan, the UN Population Fund said. Twenty-three-year-old Sharifa (not her real name) who lives in Yamgan District, a far-fledged rural community, lost her baby because she was not taken to a medical expert on time. She told IRIN the pains she suffered while her family banded her on a wood ladder to carry her to a hospital in the provincial capital. Badakhshan Province, northeastern Afghanistan, is estimated to have the highest maternal mortality rate in the world, according to health officials, largely due to lack of medical services, poverty and underdevelopment. Over 6,500 mothers die per 100,000 live births in Badakhshan, the UN Population Fund said. Twenty-three-year-old Sharifa (not her real name) who lives in Yamgan District, a far-fledged rural community, lost her baby because she was not taken to a medical expert on time. She told IRIN the pains she suffered while her family banded her on a wood ladder to carry her to a hospital in the provincial capital. http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Sharifa_23__I_lost_my_baby_because_I_couldn_t_reach_to_hospital_21082008.mp3 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:39:02 GMT 03:43 Afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Hundreds of Afghan families who have returned home lack access to basic services Hundreds of Afghan families who have returned home from Pakistan and Iran say they lack access to basic services such as drinking water, school and employment opportunities at a township where they have been settled. The Barikab township, about 60km north of Kabul city, is currently home to over 500 returnee families who warn they will abandon the area if their living conditions are not improved. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… Hundreds of Afghan families who have returned home from Pakistan and Iran say they lack access to basic services such as drinking water, school and employment opportunities at a township where they have been settled. The Barikab township, about 60km north of Kabul city, is currently home to over 500 returnee families who warn they will abandon the area if their living conditions are not improved. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Hundreds_of_Afghan_families_who_have_returned_home_from_Pakistan_and_Iran_17082008.mp3 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:37:43 GMT 04:27 Afghanistan Khalid Nahez Aid agencies check flood damage Almost a week after flooding in eight provinces in Afghanistan, aid agencies have started ?releasing their assessments on casualties and damage. According to a report released by ?the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), recent floods have killed 113 people in ?six provinces, hundreds of houses and crop land have been destroyed. Northern Panjshir ?and Kapisa are among the worst affected areas, where floods killed more than 90 people ?on 28 June. IRIN’s Khalid Nahez reports from Panjshir province…? Almost a week after flooding in eight provinces in Afghanistan, aid agencies have started ?releasing their assessments on casualties and damage. According to a report released by ?the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), recent floods have killed 113 people in ?six provinces, hundreds of houses and crop land have been destroyed. Northern Panjshir ?and Kapisa are among the worst affected areas, where floods killed more than 90 people ?on 28 June. IRIN’s Khalid Nahez reports from Panjshir province…? http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/05072007.mp3 Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT 04:51 afghanistan Ahmad Zia Entezar Farmers hit by snow, floods and now drought in Daikundi province In one of Afghanistan's isolated provinces, Daikundi, Khuda Bakhesh is a poor farmer who has severely been affected by recurrent natural disasters. Heavy snowfalls in the winter of 2007 damaged his almond and fig trees, his fields were destroyed by floods in the spring of 2008 and his hopes for a harvest in the summer have been faded by drought. Bakhesh told IRIN his story... In one of Afghanistan's isolated provinces, Daikundi, Khuda Bakhesh is a poor farmer who has severely been affected by recurrent natural disasters. Heavy snowfalls in the winter of 2007 damaged his almond and fig trees, his fields were destroyed by floods in the spring of 2008 and his hopes for a harvest in the summer have been faded by drought. Bakhesh told IRIN his story... http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/In_one_of_Afghanistan_s_isolated_provinces_Daikundi_Khuda_Bakhesh_is_a_poor_farmer_who_22062008.mp3 Sun, 29 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT 03:47 Afghan returnees may become refugees again, officials warn Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation and United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, warn that Afghan returnees will become again refugees. These officials say worsening security, food insecurity, lack of shelter and tens of other problems will press some vulnerable Afghans returnees to cross international borders. According to UNHCR, this year, the number of returnees is wanning comparing to the previous years.In this reports which is presented by Masooma Mohammadi, IRIN's KhalidNahiz reports on returnees problems and concerns… Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation and United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, warn that Afghan returnees will become again refugees. These officials say worsening security, food insecurity, lack of shelter and tens of other problems will press some vulnerable Afghans returnees to cross international borders. According to UNHCR, this year, the number of returnees is wanning comparing to the previous years.In this reports which is presented by Masooma Mohammadi, IRIN's KhalidNahiz reports on returnees problems and concerns… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Khalid_N4.mp3 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT 05:29 More than 200,000 face hunger in western Badghis province In western Badghis Province over 200,000 people are facing food insecurity, a survey by regional offices of refugees and repatriation, provincial emergency response commission and UNAMA has revealed.The local officials say food insecurity daily pushes 5 to ten families to leave their homes and go to the neighbouring provinces. They say people will start mass displacement unless immediate aid is delivered to them.IRIN'S Khalid Nahiz reports… In western Badghis Province over 200,000 people are facing food insecurity, a survey by regional offices of refugees and repatriation, provincial emergency response commission and UNAMA has revealed.The local officials say food insecurity daily pushes 5 to ten families to leave their homes and go to the neighbouring provinces. They say people will start mass displacement unless immediate aid is delivered to them.IRIN'S Khalid Nahiz reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Khalid_Nahiz_04062008.mp3 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT 04:08 Delayed delivery of food aid jeopardises lives of 2.5 million Afghans WFP officials say insecurity and Pakistan government's sanctions on wheat export to Afghanistan have caused delay in food aid delivery to over 2.5 million Afghans in dire need of humanitarian aid.Recently Afghan government and UN agencies launched an USD 77-million appeal to purchase 88,000 metric tones of wheat to be distributed tothe needy Afghans who are suffering from food price rise.But after over 4 months the appeal was launched, most of the vulnerable people throught the country have not received aid. IRIN's Khalid Nahiz reports… WFP officials say insecurity and Pakistan government's sanctions on wheat export to Afghanistan have caused delay in food aid delivery to over 2.5 million Afghans in dire need of humanitarian aid.Recently Afghan government and UN agencies launched an USD 77-million appeal to purchase 88,000 metric tones of wheat to be distributed tothe needy Afghans who are suffering from food price rise.But after over 4 months the appeal was launched, most of the vulnerable people throught the country have not received aid. IRIN's Khalid Nahiz reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Khalid_Nahiz_15062008.mp3 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT 04:48 An impoverished widow in Sheberghan city, Jawzjan, tells her tragic tale of survival struggle As the wheat price is skyrocketing, impoverished people especially the widows who are the only family breadwinners have been affected worst.34-year-old widowed Najiba lives in Jawzjan's Sheberghan city along with her 8 children. Najiba and her 16-year-old son are daily labourers to support the rest of the family. But they are unable to even provide enough flat bread for the family. One month ago a 13-year-old son of the family hung himself as his patience grew narrow to sustain hunger.Najiba tells IRIN what made his son commit suicide and how their living condition is now… As the wheat price is skyrocketing, impoverished people especially the widows who are the only family breadwinners have been affected worst.34-year-old widowed Najiba lives in Jawzjan's Sheberghan city along with her 8 children. Najiba and her 16-year-old son are daily labourers to support the rest of the family. But they are unable to even provide enough flat bread for the family. One month ago a 13-year-old son of the family hung himself as his patience grew narrow to sustain hunger.Najiba tells IRIN what made his son commit suicide and how their living condition is now… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Masuma_M1.mp3 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT 05:26 IDPs from Balkh's Alborz district are told to go home While over 1,800 displaced families from Balkh's Alborz District are in dire need, local government officials demand the IDPs to return to their main places. According to the officials the decision was made to avoid more displacement and setting up new camps.IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… While over 1,800 displaced families from Balkh's Alborz District are in dire need, local government officials demand the IDPs to return to their main places. According to the officials the decision was made to avoid more displacement and setting up new camps.IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Masuma_Muhammadi_11062008.mp3 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT 05:13 Campaign to protect Afghan children from killer diarrhoea is launched by government Officials from MoPH say diarrhoea, annually, kills about 5000 children of under the age of 5 throughout the country. As the weather gets warmer, MoPH's concern over outbreak of diarrhoea increases. To reduce the outbreak of the diseases MoPH has launched a national diarrhoea public awareness campaign. In this report we hear from IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi about the causes of diarrhoea outbreak and effective preventable measures to curb the disease. Bibi Gul's one child has died of diarrhoea… Officials from MoPH say diarrhoea, annually, kills about 5000 children of under the age of 5 throughout the country. As the weather gets warmer, MoPH's concern over outbreak of diarrhoea increases. To reduce the outbreak of the diseases MoPH has launched a national diarrhoea public awareness campaign. In this report we hear from IRIN's Masooma Mohammadi about the causes of diarrhoea outbreak and effective preventable measures to curb the disease. Bibi Gul's one child has died of diarrhoea… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Masuma_Muhammadi_24062008.mp3 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT 04:56 Returnee families stranded in arid eastern provinces 2,650 families of 120,000 registered returnees from Pakistan's Jalozai Camp cannot reintegrate to their own places due to many problems. These families who have settled in eastern provinces live in the deserts or under the tents and face water, shelter and other basic needs.IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports on the current situation on these returnees… 2,650 families of 120,000 registered returnees from Pakistan's Jalozai Camp cannot reintegrate to their own places due to many problems. These families who have settled in eastern provinces live in the deserts or under the tents and face water, shelter and other basic needs.IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports on the current situation on these returnees… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Ahmad_Zia_Entezar_05062008.mp3 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT 05:10 Daikondi officials warn of mass exodus from province if aid does not arrive soon Officials from Daikondi provincial emergency response committee warn that people will leave the province unless aid is delivered within the next 2-3 months. According to these officials, recurrent natural disasters including last year's severe winter, spring floods and now the drought have badly affected the vulnerable population of Daikondi Officials from ANDMA put the number of needy people in Daikondy at 40,000. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… Officials from Daikondi provincial emergency response committee warn that people will leave the province unless aid is delivered within the next 2-3 months. According to these officials, recurrent natural disasters including last year's severe winter, spring floods and now the drought have badly affected the vulnerable population of Daikondi Officials from ANDMA put the number of needy people in Daikondy at 40,000. IRIN's Ahmad Zia Entezar reports… http://www.irinnews.org/audiofiles/Ahmad_Zia_Entezar_26062008.mp3 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT 06:38