Local officials say the distribution of aid to hundreds of forcibly returned families has begun in Khost and Paktia provinces. The assistance is being provided under a nationwide program approved by the leadership of the Islamic Emirate for 50,000 returning families.
According to officials, under this program each returning family receives 250 kilograms of food wheat and 5,000 Afghanis in cash.
Sher Mohammad Zabih, Head of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock in Khost, said: “When forcibly deported migrants cross back over the so-called border, the process starts from that point. First, they are registered, provided with transportation facilities, and taken to their home areas. Here, we are distributing aid to those migrants whose lists were sent to us from the center and who were identified as needy.”
Meanwhile, returning families welcomed the assistance during the harsh winter, saying Afghan refugees face very poor treatment in neighboring countries and that they are happy to be back in their homeland.
They added that many returning families are still facing serious shelter shortages and called on the government for urgent support in this regard.
A returnee, Yad Gul, said: “We are currently staying in a university compound and urgently need tents. We are suffering from wind and rain.”
Another returnee, Noor Khan, said: “We should be given jobs, shelter, and housing.”
Another returnee, Ghairat Khan, said: “We call on our compatriots to return home. There is security in the country. Yes, there may be hunger and hardship, but it is still our homeland.”
The distribution of aid to families forcibly returned from neighboring countries was also launched yesterday in Paktia province by the Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock.
Speaking at a related ceremony, the minister said that the Islamic Emirate has established a High Commission to support returning Afghans. The commission is implementing various programs, including the construction of townships, land distribution, and the provision of food and non-food assistance, and this support process will continue in the future.
