WFP warns Afghan child malnutrition spikes as aid cuts force clinic turn-aways

The United Nations World Food Programme reported that child wasting, the deadliest form of malnutrition, has reached critical levels in a third of Afghanistan's provinces, with most severe cases affecting children under two years old. Health workers are forced to reject the majority of families seeking help, as funding cuts have slashed the programme's capacity to treat only one in seven acutely malnourished women and children.

Contributing factors include a 20-30% increase in staple food costs, the return of nearly six million Afghans from neighboring countries since late 2023, and the suspension of food aid in the most vulnerable districts. The United States and several European donors have reduced contributions since January 2025, leaving the WFP unable to sustain its previous outreach. The agency estimates it needs $500 million over the next six months to prevent further deterioration of the crisis.