Action for Development Responds to Earthquake Emergency in Kunar Province

On 31 August 2025, a 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck Kunar Province, Afghanistan, leaving over 2,200 people dead, more than 3,600 injured, and destroying over 6,700 homes (source: UNDP). Families in remote mountainous areas were left exposed to harsh conditions, with damaged infrastructure severely hampering aid delivery. Local health facilities quickly became overwhelmed by trauma cases, highlighting the urgent need for emergency medical support.

In response, Action for Development deployed a Mobile Health Team to the affected areas to provide immediate medical care, prevent the spread of communicable diseases, and offer psychological support to survivors. The mission also aimed to strengthen local health infrastructure and assess ongoing healthcare needs for longer-term recovery efforts.

A Rapid and Targeted Response

Drawing on Action for Development’s experience in primary healthcare and emergency response, the Mobile Health Team was mobilised on 10 September and remained in the field for 17 days, covering three of the worst-affected districts: Asadabad, Watapur, and Nurgal. The team included three doctors (one female), a midwife, four nurses, a pharmacist, a guard, and a companion — ensuring that women and children had access to essential medical and maternal care.

Over 740 patients were treated during the mission. The most common conditions included trauma and fractures, respiratory infections, diarrhoeal diseases, wound infections, and psychological distress. An average of 120 patients were seen daily through mobile clinics established in remote villages that had lost access to functioning health centres.

Supporting Health and Well-Being

Recognising the importance of mental health during crises, Action for Development deployed three counsellors to provide Psychological First Aid and one-on-one support to 89 individuals showing signs of acute distress.

Preventive care was another focus: 183 children were vaccinated against measles, tetanus, and polio, and community health sessions were conducted on hygiene and sanitation to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks.

The team coordinated closely with the provincial health directorate, local NGOs, and district authorities, participating in emergency response cluster meetings and ensuring that efforts were well-aligned. The District Governor of Nurgal personally met the team to express his gratitude and awarded certificates of appreciation for their service.

In addition to its medical work, Action for Development distributed 100 clothing items to children affected by the disaster — a small but meaningful gesture to provide comfort in the aftermath of loss.

Acknowledgment

Action for Development extends sincere thanks to One Day’s Wages et Global Giving for their generous support, which made this emergency response possible. Their contributions have enabled Action for Development to deliver vital medical and psychological care where it was needed most — helping communities in Kunar Province begin the long path to recovery.