For our former Afghan colleagues who have not been able to start a new life abroad since the regime change in 2021, life is very tough. Their daughters are at home, unable to go to school. There is little work. Entrepreneurial efforts, like setting up a small shop, have been thwarted. Many former team members have been forced to sell what possessions and property they have to support their families. Hope is fading fast.

We are hoping to raise £5,000 to use towards food parcels for former team members who have asked for help, and who worked for at least 2 years with us between 2002 and 2021. Whether it's $5, $50 or $500, every bit counts, so please give whatever you can afford.

Belinda and Fatemah, with input from Andrew, are coordinating the initiative from Europe, and managing this fundraiser and the income received (in respect of which we will account fully). Karyab, Ajmal and Shakeb are coordinating on the ground, ensuring that support gets to the right people, and that there is full accountability on the ground. All monies raised will go directly towards the bulk purchase of basic foodstuffs.

Thank you for your generosity and kindness in supporting this initiative. We are all very grateful. Inshallah, one day we'll have more dinners like this one, which was in Tajikistan when the team won the UNEP "Team of the Year" Award in 2009.