Wakhan Corridor: UN and Partners Join Forces to Reach Afghanistan’s Most Remote Communities

The Wakhan Corridor in Afghanistan’s northeastern Badakhshan province is more than a breathtaking landscape – it is a region of strategic importance, and the United Nations, together with its partners, is committed to ensuring that no one is left behind, even in the most remote corners of Afghanistan. 

From 18 to 20 August 2025, the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator (DSRSG/RC/HC) Indrika Ratwatte, visited Wakhan alongside Mr. Cenk Ünal, the Chargé d’Affaires of Türkiye in Afghanistan. The delegation met with local communities and de facto authorities, reviewed ongoing projects, and assessed the needs and priorities of the people.

“The impact of the UN and its partners here is powerful, moving from emergency relief to building resilience and lasting community infrastructure,” said Mr. Ratwatte. “The Wakhan Corridor is not only beautiful, but also strategically vital for ensuring access to some of Afghanistan’s most remote communities. For years, its people were isolated and marginalized, but today our priority is making sure the most vulnerable are reached.”

Working Together with Communities

Community engagement is at the heart of every initiative – ensuring that local people feel ownership of the projects and services that directly affect their lives. 

“Türkiye stands with the people of Afghanistan, including in its most remote and hard-to-reach areas. The Wakhan Corridor shows how important it is for the international community to work together to bring services, education, and livelihoods closer to the people,” said Mr. Ünal.

Agriculture and livestock are the main sources of income in Wakhan. Over the years, UN-supported projects – such as irrigation systems, watershed construction, forestry programmes, nutrition, healthcare, and education – have improved lives and livelihoods. 

But challenges remain. The rugged terrain, frequent landslides, flash floods, and harsh winters isolate Wakhan for more than half the year, cutting communities off from the rest of Badakhshan province.  “Winters last more than six months here,” explained Mohammad Ibrahim, a local elder. “During this time, we are cut off, unable to travel, and face great hardship.”

Education and Hope for the Future

Despite the difficult conditions, children in Wakhan walk for hours across the mountains to reach school. However, ongoing restrictions on girls’ education have left many young women without opportunities.

“But we still hope. Life skills education and vocational training projects can open new doors,” shared 29-year-old Anis Gul during a meeting with the UN delegation. She and others in the community called on the UN and its partners to support women and girls with practical training and resources to generate income and build sustainable livelihoods.

Building Alternative Livelihoods

As part of its counternarcotics efforts in the country, the UN is working closely with farmers to promote alternative livelihoods in Wakhan. These efforts include distributing certified seeds, improving irrigation, creating orchards, and building greenhouses.

“Our aim is to ensure farmers have sustainable alternatives,” said Mr. Ratwatte. “Alongside this, we are expanding healthcare, drug treatment services, and vocational training programs for women and girls, empowering them to support their families and strengthen their communities.”