UNICEF: 4 million Afghan children face hunger as malnutrition cases surge
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UNICEF reports nearly 4 million children in Afghanistan are facing hunger, with hospitals overwhelmed and aid centers closing due to funding shortages. The number of children admitted with acute malnutrition rose by a third to 8,000 in July 2026 from 6,000 a year earlier. Nearly 40% of hospitalized severely wasted children are infants under six months.
Key Facts
- Nearly 4 million children in Afghanistan are facing hunger, according to UNICEF.
- Children under two years old account for 83% of all severe malnutrition cases.
- Hospital admissions for acute malnutrition rose from 6,000 in July 2025 to 8,000 in July 2026.
- About half of Afghan children live in families that lack sufficient food.
- Children from food-insecure families are six times more likely to suffer wasting during crisis periods.
Malnutrition Crisis
UNICEF reports that nearly 4 million children in Afghanistan are facing hunger. Hospitals across the country are overwhelmed, and aid centers are closing due to funding shortages. Nearly 40% of children hospitalized with severe wasting are infants under six months old. Children under two years old account for 83% of all severe malnutrition cases.
Rising Hospital Admissions
The number of children admitted with acute malnutrition and related complications rose by a third compared to last year. Admissions increased from 6,000 in July 2025 to 8,000 in July 2026, according to UNICEF representative in Afghanistan Tajuddin Oyewale. Hospitals are already under enormous strain, Oyewale said.
Food Insecurity
About half of children in Afghanistan live in families that do not have enough food, UNICEF data shows. After six months, children need adequate complementary feeding, but many families can only provide bread with tea or yogurt diluted with water. UNICEF warned that children from such families are six times more likely to experience wasting during periods of crisis. Without timely help, severe malnutrition can lead to death.
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UNICEF: 4 million Afghan children face hunger as malnutrition cases surge
