Japan, UNHCR Sign $6 Million Deal to Aid Afghan Returnees

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has signed a $6 million cooperation agreement with Japan whose purpose is to support the livelihoods and self-sufficiency of displaced Afghan citizens and returnees, benefiting more than 15,000 people across thirteen provinces.

The $6 million contribution of Japan to UNHCR will focus on enhancing vocational training, small business development, and community-based initiatives to facilitate the reintegration of Afghan returnees.

Arafat Jamal, UNHCR’s representative, stated: “with the support of new action with JICA, more than 15,000 Afghans will benefit from activities designed to boost their self-reliance and prosperity for displaced, returned and host communities alike.”

Jamal also highlighted that more than two million Afghans returned to Afghanistan in 2024, emphasizing that managing this process will have a critical impact on the country’s situation.

He added: “In 2024 alone, over 2.1 million Afghans are estimated to have returned home. This trend is expected to continue in 2025. How these returns are managed will make the difference between a peaceful, stable situation or a situation of chaos.”

During the signing ceremony, Japan’s ambassador to Afghanistan, Takayoshi Kuromiya, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting the Afghan people.

He stated: “The Government of Japan is committed to continue to support Afghanistan, particularly through projects in agriculture and community-based infrastructure that are inclusive, sustainable and provide opportunities for women.”      

Also See: Japan Donates $500,000 to Healthcare System of Afghanistan: WHO

According to UNHCR reports, Japan has contributed nearly $30 million to UNHCR operations in Afghanistan since 2021.

This news is sourced from [Tolo News] and is for informational purposes only.