The Senior Management Team visited the World Health Organization (WHO) office in Kabul to explore potential future collaborations. The discussion began with an introductory session led by Dr. Manuel, who provided a brief overview of WHO’s work in Afghanistan. Mr. Mubashir then presented a detailed introduction to SHARP, highlighting its humanitarian efforts since 1999. He also discussed the long-standing professional relationship between SHARP and UNHCR in Pakistan, emphasizing the contributions of its Chairman, Mr. Liaqat Ali Shah Banori, to humanitarian causes over the years. All participants expressed admiration for SHARP’s dedication and its Chairman’s efforts.
Following this, Dr. Manuel de Lara outlined the role and scope of his team in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD). He emphasized initiatives aimed at reducing substance demand and improving MHPSS. Dr. Manuel also informed the SHARP-Afghanistan team about an upcoming funding opportunity from the European Union for NCDs, specifically addressing cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, mental health disorders, neurological disorders, and renal diseases.
Dr. Wagma Amin shared her experiences in providing oncology services in Afghanistan and urged the WHO team to assist in raising awareness, prevention, and screening for cancer in the country. Mr. Babar Najeeb highlighted the importance of MHPSS services for cancer patients and their families. Dr. Manuel concluded by sharing WHO Afghanistan’s vision for combating cancer in the country, announcing that the organization plans to launch a two-year EU-funded project starting in September 2024.
