Emergency Assistance Restoring Safety and Dignity for Earthquake-Affected Families
Background
The devastating earthquake that struck Kunar Province on 31 August 2025 was one of the deadliest disasters to hit the country in recent years. The powerful tremor killed more than 2,000 people and destroyed or damaged over 8,000 homes, forcing thousands of families to seek shelter in temporary tents. Entire communities lost their homes, livelihoods, and access to basic services.
Ghulam Nabi, a 45-year-old father from Chawki District, was one of the many families whose lives were devastated by the earthquake, losing his home, livelihood, and sense of security in a matter of moments. According to Ghulam Nabi, the earthquake destroyed his home within moments, damaged his farmland, and wiped out his food supplies and livestock. He explained that his family was left without shelter and was forced to spend several nights outdoors under makeshift cover, exposed to cold weather, rain, and the constant fear of aftershocks.
We lost our house, our animals, and our food supplies. I did not know how I would protect my children or feed them.
He further explained that after the disaster, his family faced severe food shortages, lacked essential household items, and struggled with poor sanitation conditions. He added that the situation also increased protection risks, particularly for women and children in the household.
Timely Support That Restored Hope
Through an emergency humanitarian response implemented by the Rural Rehabilitation Association for Afghanistan (RRAA) with financial support from Caritas Germany, Ghulam Nabi’s household was identified as highly vulnerable. His family was prioritized due to the destruction of their shelter and loss of livelihood. As part of the intervention, his family received a multi-sector assistance package, including:
- Food rations
- Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance (MPCA)
- Tarpaulins and blankets
- Kitchen utensils
- Hygiene and dignity kits
- A solar panel
Ghulam Nabi explained that the assistance had an immediate and meaningful impact. The MPCA allowed him to meet his family’s urgent needs with dignity, while the shelter materials protected them from harsh weather.
The cash assistance gave me the dignity to choose what my family needed most. With the support we received, I was able to buy essential items for my family.
He also highlighted the importance of the solar panel, which provided safe lighting for his household, allowing his children to study after sunset and improving safety at night.
Before receiving the solar panel, our tent was completely dark at night. Now my children can study in the evening, and we feel safer.
Ghulam Nabi further shared that the hygiene items helped reduce health risks during a time when sanitation services were limited. He added that the assistance not only supported his family but also benefited many others who were struggling after losing their homes and livelihoods. Reflecting on the support, Ghulam Nabi said the intervention restored a sense of safety, dignity, and hope, helping his family and the wider community continue their journey toward recovery and rebuilding their lives.
