WHO – with support from Italy – brings health care closer to families in eastern Afghanistan

30 August 2026, Kabul, Afghanistan – With financial support from the Government of Italy, the World Health Organization (WHO) is bringing essential primary health care services to families living in remote communities in Afghanistan. At Gari Basic Health Centre, this support helps health workers provide timely treatment, follow-up care and essential health advice to people who might otherwise struggle to access care. Mohammad’s family lives in Mani village, more than 90 minutes on foot from the nearest health facility. When 14-month-old Mohammad sustained a severe burn on his leg that left him unable to walk, his parents were concerned that the wound would become infected before they had time to access appropriate care. “We were very worried because my child’s leg was badly burned and we live so far from the health centre,” said Rayees, Mohammad’s father. The family brought Mohammad to Gari Basic Health Centre, supported by WHO through a primary health care project funded by the Government of Italy, where health workers immediately assessed his wound and applied dressings. They comforted his parents and showed them how to care for the injury and prevent infection at home. Follow-up visits were scheduled every 2 days to monitor Mohammad’s recovery. “Thanks to the care we received at the health centre, my son recovered completely,” said Rayees. “We are grateful to the health workers for their care and kindness, and we thank WHO for bringing these essential services closer to our community.” “Access to quality primary health care is essential to protect the health and well-being of communities, particularly in remote areas where distance can delay treatment and turn manageable conditions into serious complications,” said WHO Representative in Afghanistan Dr Edwin Ceniza Salvador. “With support from the Government of Italy, WHO and its partners are strengthening frontline health services and bringing timely care closer to underserved communities. This contribution helps