AAR Japan (Association for Aid and Relief, Japan) is distributing emergency relief supplies in Kunar Province, eastern Afghanistan, which suffered extensive damage in the August 31 earthquake. An emergency relief team dispatched from the Kabul office entered the disaster area on the 5th to start assessments and began distributing supplies to affected households starting on the 12th.

All 29 households interviewed in the survey reported that their houses were destroyed. Furthermore, many expressed feelings of utter helplessness, stating that their orchards, shops, and work vehicles had also been damaged, leaving them “without a means of livelihood and unsure how to rebuild lives.” Additionally, 20% of households reported that they “have not received any support so far.”

The emergency relief team targeted villages in the Chalas Valley of northern Chawkay District for assistance. We procured relief supplies in Kabul and transported them overland to the affected areas. Items distributed included drinking water, food, hygiene supplies such as soap, solar lamps, and cooking utensils like pots and plates. We also delivered shoes and clothing to enable safe movement through the rubble.

“I lost my beloved father in the earthquake. Since that night, our lives changed completely. Our home was destroyed, our income vanished, and our former life disappeared in an instant. For a while, we had nothing to eat, no way to keep warm, and no help from anywhere. But now, receiving water, cooking utensils, blankets, and shoes from AAR makes us truly happy. Thank you.” This is what Esrail (12 years old) told us when he came to receive the relief supplies.

AAR delivered relief supplies to 232 households across 11 villages in Chawkay district on the 12th and 13th. We plan to expand our assistance areas and distribute food, cooking utensils, and other items. We also aim to deliver blankets and winter clothing before the harsh winter arrives.

We sincerely ask for your continued support.