Ghazni: The Deputy Minister of Public Health, Bakht Rahman Sharafat, stated that the suspension of international aid has not negatively impacted Afghanistan's health sector, asserting that most foreign assistance was largely symbolic in nature.
Speaking at the inauguration of a 20-bed rehabilitation facility for women struggling with drug addiction in Ghazni, Sharafat emphasized that the country's healthcare system has improved since the Islamic Emirate assumed power. He noted that increased transparency, better resource management, and local efforts have contributed to the sector’s resilience.
“Foreign aid has had no negative consequences for Afghanistan’s economy or its institutions,” Sharafat said. “We are utilizing our available resources effectively and responsibly.”
The newly opened hospital, built at a cost of $120,000, was funded by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and implemented by the local NGO YHDO.
Ghazni’s Director of Public Health, Zargh Zirk, highlighted that the facility will provide 45-day treatment programs for addicted women and will be fully staffed by female professionals. He also mentioned the possibility of expansion in the future.
Hamidullah Hemat, the head of the implementing NGO in Ghazni, confirmed the hospital’s budget was fully financed by UNODC and noted that similar projects could follow.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Health announced the approval of a 7 billion afghani budget aimed at constructing hospitals in every district of Afghanistan, with project execution expected to begin in the near future.
