UAE expands healthcare with advanced clinics in Afghanistan

UAE Strengthens Healthcare in Afghanistan with Advanced Maternity and Pediatric Centers

Jalalabad [Afghanistan], March 15 (ANI): The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has started a massive healthcare project to enhance maternal and child health services in Afghanistan as part of a major humanitarian effort. Ten cutting-edge maternity and pediatric facilities have been established as part of this revolutionary endeavor, and they are positioned in areas with the least access to healthcare.

The initiative is driven by the UAE’s long-standing commitment to humanitarian aid, following the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and under the leadership of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has started a massive healthcare project to enhance maternal and child health services in Afghanistan as part of a major humanitarian effort. Ten cutting-edge maternity and pediatric facilities have been established as part of this revolutionary endeavor, and they are positioned in areas with the least access to healthcare.

An estimated 115,000 women are anticipated to gain from the program in the upcoming years, making it a significant step in enhancing Afghanistan’s healthcare system. To guarantee continuous healthcare services in remote locations, the recently opened centers are equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, solar-powered energy solutions, satellite-linked communication stations, mobile clinics, and ambulances.

Direct Effect: Preserving Lives in Jalalabad
Already, the medical center in Jalalabad’s Baghbani district is having a big impact. In the past, a scarcity of supplies and subpar refrigeration facilities prevented many households from having access to basic immunizations. Today, the center serves more than 20 people every day with necessary vaccinations, such as TB vaccines.

One of the beneficiaries, Baby Ayesha Qamari, recently received vital vaccinations at the facility. Her mother expressed deep gratitude for the UAE’s efforts, saying, “We’ve visited the clinic multiple times. Before, we had no means to reach a hospital in the city due to financial constraints. Now, we can access healthcare nearby, and it has saved lives.”

Vaccination efforts remain a core focus of these centers. Marwa Akbari, a vaccination officer at the clinic, emphasized the importance of immunization, stating, “We are administering COVID-19 and BCG vaccines to eligible individuals, including both pregnant and non-pregnant women.”

Tackling Maternal and Infant Mortality
Afghanistan has one of the highest infant mortality rates globally, with approximately 43 deaths per 1,000 live births. The leading causes include infectious diseases, respiratory infections, diarrhea, malaria, preterm birth complications, and birth asphyxia. The UAE’s healthcare initiative directly addresses these challenges by offering maternal care, safe childbirth services, newborn nutritional support, and medical treatment for mothers.

Dr. Ikramullah, the leading physician at the clinic, highlighted the impact, noting, “Unsafe home births were common in the past, but now we can assist deliveries with professional healthcare teams. We provide vaccinations, nutritional aid for newborns, and treatment for mothers with internal health conditions.”

A Lifeline for Afghan Families
For many Afghan families, this initiative marks the first time they have had access to modern healthcare services. Shazia Mohammadi, a mother of six, shared her personal experience, explaining that she had never received proper medical care during childbirth—until now. In appreciation of the UAE’s contributions, she named her newborn daughter Fatima, after Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi, Mother of the Nation and wife of the UAE’s founder.

Her husband, Ramadan Mohammadi, echoed her sentiments, saying, “Six of our children were born at home due to a lack of nearby clinics and financial hardships. This is the first time we’ve had a medical facility close to us, and it has made a huge difference in our lives.”

Economic Benefits and Community Development
Beyond healthcare, the UAE’s initiative is also fostering economic opportunities. The project has created 92 new jobs, providing employment to medical staff, technicians, and support personnel. Additionally, it is stimulating local businesses, uplifting families, and contributing to Afghanistan’s economic recovery.

Mawlawi Ameenullah Sharif, Health Director of Nangarhar Province, acknowledged the far-reaching impact of the UAE’s efforts, stating, “We deeply appreciate the UAE’s support for the Islamic Emirate and its investment in Afghanistan’s healthcare sector. The new clinics have provided much-needed services for the poor, including vaccination, nutrition programs, and maternal and child healthcare.”

UAE’s Long-Term Commitment to Afghanistan
Jalalabad, Afghanistan’s fifth-largest city with a population of approximately 350,000, is just one of many areas benefiting from the UAE’s humanitarian mission. The UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to aiding Afghanistan, ensuring that healthcare services reach those most in need.

Under the direct supervision of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, 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 continues to prioritize healthcare, education, and infrastructure development in Afghanistan.

The UAE’s efforts are guided by principles of solidarity, generosity, and sustainable progress, transcending boundaries of race, class, ethnicity, or political affiliations. This landmark initiative not only enhances Afghanistan’s healthcare sector but also serves as a beacon of hope, ensuring a healthier and brighter future for Afghan mothers, children, and communities.