KABUL, Afghanistan — As the holy month of Ramadan begins, many residents of Kabul say they are struggling with soaring prices, widespread unemployment, and economic hardship, making it increasingly difficult to afford even basic necessities.
While markets are crowded with shoppers, many are there only to look, not to buy, as their purchasing power remains weak.
“The shopkeepers are busy selling, the buyers are busy purchasing, and those who are unemployed just wander the markets,” said one Kabul resident.
This year, Ramadan comes under the shadow of deepening poverty. Many Afghans say they barely have enough food for one meal a day.
“The prices in our country are extremely high,” said another Kabul resident. “There’s no work, no jobs, and everything is expensive.”
Reports from the United Nations confirm that food prices have remained high, particularly after the reduction of international aid. The U.N. estimates that 23 million Afghans need humanitarian assistance this year, with millions facing severe hunger.
“I had a very difficult winter,” said another resident. “I had no fuel for heating. Prices were high. My children are sick now, and I can’t afford their treatment.”
While many Afghans struggle to secure basic necessities, the Taliban continue to claim economic improvement. However, the U.N. warns that Afghanistan remains the world’s second-worst humanitarian crisis, and without sustained aid, conditions will only worsen.
