My name is Shamila, and I live with my five children in the Anjirak, Se sado panzda area of Kabul city. Like many mothers here, I’ve struggled to provide for my family in difficult times. My youngest, Rahila, was just six months old when I noticed she was far too weak so thin that neighbors whispered their worries. She couldn’t breastfeed properly, and I felt helpless watching her grow frailer each day, unable to afford a doctor’s visit.
Everything changed when Mr. Farzad, an outreach worker from AADA, visited our neighborhood to raise awareness about nutrition and health. When I shared Rahila’s struggles with him, he listened attentively and came to our home. After seeing Rahila’s condition, he encouraged me to take her to the local nutrition center for a checkup.
At the center, Ms. Shaqayeq, the nutrition nurse, welcomed us with kindness and compassion. She carefully examined Rahila and diagnosed her with severe malnutrition. Thanks to the quick referral from Ms. Shaqayeq, we were sent to the 102-bed Khairkhana Hospital, where Rahila stayed for 15 days and received the specialized care she urgently needed.
Though her recovery would take time, I saw a glimmer of hope. The doctors referred us back to the neighborhood nutrition center, and when we returned, the staff were delighted to see Rahila’s improvement. They registered her for weekly nutritional support and provided us with essential medicines and hygiene supplies, like soap, to keep her safe from infections.
Now, each week, I bring Rahila to the center for checkups. The staff track her steady growth in weight and height and always take the time to answer my questions. I’ve also started attending weekly food demonstration sessions led by Ms. Ruqia, where I’ve learned how to prepare nutritious meals with local ingredients, the importance of breastfeeding, and ways to prevent malnutrition and illness through proper hygiene.
Today, Rahila is a healthy, happy baby her cheeks are full, and she laughs and plays like any child her age. My family’s life has been transformed. As a mother, I am deeply grateful for these services being available right in our community.
“Before, I was worried and hopeless, but now I am confident that Rahila will grow strong. I am thankful to the doctors and staff at the center for supporting mothers like me,” ”
–Shamilaa
AADA’s Urban Nutrition Project doesn’t just provide food or medicine it empowers families with knowledge, supports mothers, and brings life-saving care within reach of even the most vulnerable. Through community outreach, ongoing education, and close partnership with local health workers, AADA ensures every child has the chance to thrive.
The journey isn’t over, but for Rahila and many children like her there is hope for a healthier, brighter future. AADA remains committed to standing with Afghanistan’s families, so every child can grow up strong and nourished.