OTTAWA — The federal government is providing $3 million in humanitarian assistance to support thousands of people affected by Sunday's deadly earthquake in Afghanistan.
A news release issued by Global Affairs Canada today says $1.3 million will be allocated to the World Food Programme which is already providing food and logistical help.
The International Committee of the Red Cross will get $1 million.
CARE Canada and Islamic Relief Canada will both get $350,000 to provide assistance including clean water, emergency shelters and essential non-food items.
The news release says Canada is providing more than $36 million overall in humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan in 2025 through UN, Red Cross and non-governmental partners.
A spokesperson for the Taliban government said Thursday that the quake had claimed more than 2,200 lives and that search and rescue efforts were continuing.
Global Affairs Canada says Canada "continues to monitor the situation and remains in close contact with experienced partners to assess and respond to evolving needs."
"I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life and the widespread devastation caused by the earthquake in Afghanistan," Randeep Sarai, secretary of state for international development, said in a media statement Friday. "My heart goes out to all those affected."
Afghans have been struggling with hunger and disease since governments blocked financial ties to the Taliban regime which took over the country in August 2021. Many countries have also cut back on foreign aid spending and contributions to United Nations agencies.
The United Nations says half of Afghanistan's population of 46 million is in need of humanitarian aid. It says the country has struggled to integrate 2.5 million citizens who returned this year, often by force, from countries where they sought safety or better living standards.
— With files from Dylan Robertson and The Associated Press
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 5, 2025.
Catherine Morrison, The Canadian Press
