OCHA: Support for Afghan health workers essential to reduce maternal mortality

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has called for stronger support for health workers and the expansion of health services in Afghanistan. In a post on X Wednesday,June 17, OCHA said Afghanistan has the highest maternal mortality rate in the world. The agency added that while women and girls face major barriers in accessing healthcare services, health workers remain on the front line in providing care and support for mothers and newborns. It further stressed that supporting health workers is a critical requirement for expanding services related to maternal and neonatal care. The statement comes as women in Afghanistan continue to face restrictions on education, work, and movement following the Taliban’s return to power.