Global hands, local hearts aid Afghanistan's earthquake victims

An outpouring of solidarity was uniting local communities, philanthropists, charities, and nearly 50 nations, offering empathy for the Afghan people affected by a devastating 6.0-magnitude earthquake.

SUKI, Afghanistan, Sept. 12 (Xinhua) -- In the rugged valleys of eastern Afghanistan's Kunar province, where a devastating 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck on Aug. 31, humanitarian assistance and compassion converged.

An outpouring of solidarity was uniting local communities, philanthropists, charities, and nearly 50 nations, offering empathy for a people reeling from grief.

Across the scarred landscape, dozens of temporary camps have been set up, with colorful tents emblazoned with logos of hope.

Volunteers worked tirelessly, serving hot meals, deploying mobile medical units, setting up communication towers, and delivering food and hygiene supplies. In every shattered corner of Kunar, kindness was transforming devastation into a symbol of humanity's enduring spirit.

Among the global support, China has emerged as a steadfast partner. Chinese aid organizations, companies and individuals have reached even the most remote corners of Kunar, including the isolated Dewa Gul region in Suki district, braving treacherous terrain to deliver life-saving relief.

"We support 200 families," said Wang, overseas sales director at San Jiang Electric, while distributing seven types of food in Dewa Gul. "We also hope to help with infrastructure, lighting, and job creation," he added. His vision was beyond emergency relief.

China has pledged 50 million yuan (about 7.04 million U.S. dollars) in emergency aid, with the first batch of tents, blankets, and other essentials arriving in Kabul on Sunday.

The Chinese embassy, enterprises, and the Overseas Chinese Association in Afghanistan have also provided food, supplies, and cash donations, reflecting a bond of friendship and a shared commitment to easing suffering.

Tajikistan has also joined the relief drive, sending 3,000 tons of humanitarian supplies, including food and non-food items, to support Kunar's quake victims.

Survivor Mohammad Nasim Mohsen lost four family members and his home. Receiving aid twice, Mohsen told Xinhua, "we need more than temporary help."

"Our houses are completely destroyed, and there is an urgent need to rebuild," he said, echoing pleas of others for a foundation to restart their lives.

In Suki district, Munirullah Shakir, head of the local aid collection committee, expressed gratitude for international generosity. "Tents, flour, kitchen supplies and other essentials have been distributed, and aid efforts continue," he said.

The collective response from nearly 50 countries underscored a universal resolve to stand with Afghanistan in its darkest hour, offering both condolences and tangible aid.

Waqar, surrounded by his children, now lived in a tent where his home once stood. Grateful for emergency supplies, he pointed to the harsh reality: not a single house in the area remained intact.

"Rebuilding our homes is beyond our means," he said. "Our entire livelihood is gone, our animals, cows, and goats, all lost. Every possession has been swept away," Waqar told Xinhua.

As aid flows, humanity's greatest strength lies in compassion. From distant donors to local heroes, the collective relief efforts lit a path toward hope and rebuilding.■