Source: ChildFund New Zealand
Current reports reveal over 2,800 people have been injured, with a further 800 people killed.
“These numbers will probably rise as assessments continue,” says Josie Pagani, CEO of ChildFund NZ.
“Assessment teams need to walk four hours or more to reach devastated communities, so it may be a while until the full scope of the tragedy is clear.”
Afghanistan was struck by a powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake that impacted the southeastern region at 11.47pm last night (local time), affecting the provinces of Kunar, Nangarhar, and Laghman.
The quake, with an estimated depth of just 8 to 10 kilometers, was centered near the Pakistan border.
Key roads are blocked, isolating affected communities. In a country where women and girls already face systemic barriers to healthcare, education and safety, there is an urgency to respond and reach these vulnerable communities.
ChildFund New Zealand has local partners responding on the ground, with teams who have been working in country since 2002, so they are well positioned to act as quickly as possible.
“Women and girls in Afghanistan already struggle to reach healthcare and safe shelter, so the response to last night’s earthquake must prioritise those most vulnerable”, says Josie Pagani.
This disaster comes on the heels of dramatic cuts in international aid from the United States in particular. The United Nations recently reported that the Afghanistan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan received $144 million less in 2025 than during the same period in 2024.
ChildFund has an Emergency Response Fund and is urging Kiwis to donate what they can. “Your donation could help provide safety and care to a mother and her children in Afghanistan today,” says Josie Pagani.
ChildFund partner WeWorld has been operating in Afghanistan for 23 years, working particularly with women and children.
