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Kabul, Afghanistan

Dr Najmussama Shefajo Highlights Women’s Medical Issues in Afghanistan at AAHP-UK AGM

United Kingdom
12 December, 2024

From the AAHP-UK Team

In a significant step forward for improving healthcare access for children with thalassemia, AAHP-UK has confirmed that construction for a much-needed expansion of the thalassemia ward in Kabul will begin in January 2025. This development comes after the organisation’s latest monitoring visit in May 2024, during which representatives Hamid Kabir and Dr Wahab Ghani identified urgent requirements to enhance patient care.

Addressing Overcrowding and Safety Concerns

Currently, the existing ward is severely overcrowded, with 3-4 children often sharing a single bed during treatment sessions. This situation not only causes significant discomfort but also increases the risk of cross-infections among patients. Recognising these challenges, the new ward will provide additional space and ensure a safer, more dignified environment for the 1,253 children currently receiving treatment.

Plans and Preparations

The new thalassemia ward will be built adjacent to the existing facility on a designated site. Detailed architectural plans have already been finalised, and AAHP-UK has completed an extensive review of quotations from various construction companies to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness. With all due diligence nearing completion, the project is now ready to move into its construction phase.

For more information about our ongoing efforts and the overall scope of our work, please visit the Thalassemia Project page.

Funding Status

Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of AAHP-UK’s supporters, $25,000 has already been raised to fund the construction. However, an additional $7,000 is still required to fully cover the project’s costs. Every donation plays a crucial role in ensuring the timely completion of this vital project.

Join Us in Making a Difference

This project exemplifies the power of collective action to transform lives. By contributing to the thalassemia ward expansion, you can help provide hundreds of children with the care they need in a safe and supportive environment.

Donate Today

Your support is invaluable. To make a donation or learn more about this initiative, please visit [insert link to donation page or contact information]. Together, we can build a brighter and healthier future for children affected by thalassemia.

Thank you for standing with us in this journey of hope and healing.

The Association of Afghan Healthcare Professionals in the UK (AAHP-UK) was honoured to host a special session at its Annual General Meeting this year, featuring Dr Najmussama Shefajo, a leading advocate for women’s health in Afghanistan. Dr Shefajo delivered a thought-provoking talk on the challenges facing Afghan women’s healthcare and the critical work of the Afghanistan Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (AFSOG).

AFSOG: A Lifeline for Women and Children

AFSOG, a non-profit organisation, has been at the forefront of women’s health advocacy in Afghanistan since its establishment in 2002 by Dr Maroof Sameh. Comprising over 2,000 members across all 34 provinces, AFSOG operates through seven regional offices to deliver vital healthcare support for mothers and children. Despite significant challenges, the organisation remains committed to addressing maternal mortality and improving access to quality care.

During her talk, Dr Shefajo highlighted AFSOG’s vision to create a society where no Afghan woman dies from preventable maternal causes. She stressed the need to tackle Afghanistan’s maternal mortality rate, currently among the highest in the world and 40 times higher than neighbouring Iran. AFSOG’s work includes building professional capacity among obstetricians and gynaecologists, enabling them to deliver globally recognised standards of care.

Key Achievements and Future Goals

AFSOG’s core initiatives include:

  • Reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates.
  • Improving the status of women throughout their reproductive lives.
  • Defending the professional rights of female doctors across governmental, private, and non-governmental institutions.
  • Providing training and capacity-building programmes to enhance professional skills.

These efforts have had a meaningful impact, helping to build a stronger network of healthcare professionals dedicated to serving Afghan women and children.

A Call to Action

The AGM session served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address maternal health challenges in Afghanistan. Dr Shefajo’s talk reflected the resilience and dedication of Afghan healthcare professionals and highlighted the significant role AFSOG plays in supporting mothers and children.

AAHP-UK extends its appreciation to Dr Shefajo and all participants for shining a light on these critical issues. By fostering collaboration and continued support, we can make lasting improvements to healthcare for Afghan women and their families.

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Dr Shefajo's speech at AAHP-UK's 15th AGM

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