WHO and partners provide lifesaving support for mothers and newborns in Bamyan Province, Afghanistan

27 March 2025, Bamyan, Afghanistan – In central Afghanistan’s Bamyan Province, thousands of mothers and children have better access to lifesaving health care thanks to an initiative led by the World Health Organization (WHO), in partnership with the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), the Islamic Development Bank (IDB), the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Afghanistan Humanitarian Trust Fund. The US$ 1.1 million investment has reduced gaps in maternal and child health services, helping ensure medical support reaches those who need it most.

Afghanistan faces significant health challenges, including one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region. The project boosted health care systems at 3 district hospitals in Bamyan Province, one of the country’s most remote and hard-to-reach areas. The facilities received essential medicines, medical supplies and commodities, enabling over 38 000 mothers and children to access health services. In addition, 250 health care workers in Bamyan have been trained in essential maternal and child health practices, equipping them to deliver high-quality care.

“Our partnership with AHTF, KSrelief and OIC has been a lifeline for the people of Bamyan,” said WHO Representative and Head of Mission in Afghanistan Dr Edwin Ceniza Salvador. “Together, we have made a tangible difference by strengthening health care systems and providing essential medical resources. I appreciate the dedication of health care workers and the generous support of our partners which have transformed the lives of Afghanistan’s most vulnerable communities, offering them a brighter and healthier future.”

Below are the stories of 3 women whose lives have been transformed by the project. Their experiences highlight the impact of accessible and high-quality health care on maternal and child health outcomes in Bamyan.

Aqila, 32, a patient at Yakawlang District Hospital

Aqila, a mother of 5, shared her story while recovering at Yakawlang District Hospital.

“I still remember the struggle of delivering my daughter on the way to another hospital because there was no ambulance available,” she said. “This time, my experience was different. I was brought to the hospital in severe pain, but the staff provided outstanding care. They operated on me, gave me oxygen and were attentive the whole time. Their dedication and compassion mean so much to me. I am truly grateful for everything they have done.”

Khadija, 24, a patient at Panjab District Hospital

Khadija, a first-time mother, reflected on her experience at Panjab District Hospital. She described her relief after traveling from Ghor Province where she had endured hours of labour at a clinic that couldn’t assist with her delivery.

“When I got here, the doctors examined me and decided that surgery was necessary. They carefully stitched my wounds and made sure everything went smoothly,” she explained. “What I will always remember is their kindness and professionalism. Thanks to them I feel healthy again, and I am genuinely thankful for the care I received.”

Dr Zaiban Rezaie, 45, a doctor at Panjab District Hospital

Dr Zaiban Rezaie, an obstetrician-gynaecologist at Panjab District Hospital, spoke about the difficulties women face when seeking maternal health care in Bamyan.

“Many of our patients have to undertake long and challenging journeys, often crossing mountainous areas to reach us,” she explained. “With support from WHO and various donors we are now able to offer lifesaving services to mothers and newborns, ensuring they can return home safely. The hospital has seen significant improvements, including modern sanitation facilities, waiting areas, an oxygen pipeline system, essential medicines and incubators for newborns.”