DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has embarked on a groundbreaking project to establish ten advanced maternity and pediatric centers across Afghanistan. This initiative is rooted in the humanitarian vision of the UAE's founder, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and is supported by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Its goal is to address pressing healthcare needs while promoting stability, development, and prosperity in Afghanistan.

The maternity clinics are strategically located in provinces of Afghanistan where healthcare is most needed, including Nangarhar, Balkh, Herat, Ghazni, Paktika, Paktia, Kandahar, and Helmand. Each facility is equipped with two specialist beds and staffed with dedicated doctors and nurses. It is estimated that over 115,000 women will benefit directly from these services, impacting hundreds of thousands of family members and the wider community. The clinics are equipped with solar power, satellite communication, mobile units, and ambulances to ensure quality healthcare services, empower women and children, and strengthen local communities.

One such clinic, located in the Baghbani district of Jalalabad, is already providing critical care to expectant mothers and children in need. Before the clinic’s establishment, local families faced challenges in accessing reliable vaccines due to limited resources and poor refrigeration. Baby Ayesha Qamari is among the fortunate children receiving vaccinations to prevent disease. Afghanistan faces one of the highest infant mortality rates globally, with approximately 43 deaths per 1,000 live births. Contributing factors include infectious diseases, respiratory infections, diarrhea, malaria, complications from premature births, and birth asphyxia. 

The clinic in Jalalabad, situated nearly 30 kilometers from the city center, is now providing access to vaccines, including those for tuberculosis, for the first time. With refrigerated storage and ample supplies, the clinic serves over 20 patients daily. Marwa Akbari, the vaccination officer, explained, “We are currently administering both the COVID-19 and BCG vaccines to eligible individuals, including pregnant and non-pregnant women who meet the criteria.”

Dr. Ikramullah, the clinic’s head doctor, emphasized the importance of the facility, particularly in rural areas, noting, “Before, many unsafe births took place at home, but now they are safely managed by a professional team. We also offer vaccination and nutritional support for newborns and provide treatment for mothers facing internal health issues.”

The UAE has prioritized Afghanistan as a key area for humanitarian assistance and sustainable development. Under the leadership of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister, and Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Martyrs’ Families Affairs, the UAE’s Integrated Development Program in Afghanistan is delivering exceptional healthcare services nationwide.

The impact of this initiative has been deeply felt by Afghan families. Shazia Mohammadi, a mother of six, shared her gratitude, naming her newborn daughter Fatima after Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi, the “Mother of the Nation” and wife of the UAE’s founder. Shazia had never had access to modern healthcare until the UAE's intervention. She said, “We have six children, and this one is named Fatima. When I gave birth, our financial situation was dire. Now, things have improved, and we’ve received a lot of help. We are thankful to God and to the UAE for their support.”

Shazia continued, “This is the first baby born in the clinic, and they promised to support us. A few days after we got home, they called us, and we told them we named the baby Fatima. They provided additional help with food, for which we are incredibly grateful.”

Ramadan Mohammadi, Fatima’s father, reflected on their experience, saying, “Six of our children were born at home due to economic difficulties and the distance to the clinic. This is the first time a clinic has been built close to our home, and it has been such a blessing for us.”

In addition to improving healthcare, the project is also fostering economic growth. It has generated 92 local jobs and stimulated local businesses, enhancing the community’s resilience. Mawlawi Ameenullah Sharif, Health Director of Nangarhar Province, expressed his appreciation for the UAE’s efforts, saying, “We are very grateful to the UAE for supporting the Islamic Emirate and investing in clinics throughout Afghanistan. The clinic in Nangarhar was urgently needed, and I am pleased that the local people now have access to healthcare services. The clinic is actively providing vaccinations, nutrition, and maternal and child health services.”

Jalalabad, Afghanistan’s fifth-largest city, with a population of around 350,000, is one of many locations benefiting from the UAE’s humanitarian initiatives. The UAE is funding numerous charitable projects across Afghanistan, offering assistance regardless of race, class, ethnicity, sect, political stance, or ideology. These efforts reflect the UAE's commitment to solidarity, generosity, and sustainable development, ensuring long-term benefits for the Afghan people.