Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority’s Acting Head met with Shelter and Non-Food Items Cluster Coordinators

Today, On Thursday morning, the Acting Head of Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority, Alhaj Mullah Nooruddin Turabi, met with Ms. Susan Saad, the Coordinator of the Emergency Shelter Cluster from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), her deputy Mr. Mohammad Hashem Niazi, and Mr. Mohammad Baqir Haidari, the Deputy Coordinator of the Shelter Cluster from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The meeting focused on discussions regarding forcibly displaced migrants and the activities of the aforementioned cluster.
During the meeting, Alhaj Turabi Sahb welcomed the Emergency Shelter Cluster delegation and addressed the issue of assisting forcibly displaced migrants. He noted that, despite the existence of a dedicated ministry for migration affairs, the recent high influx of displaced migrants has prompted the establishment of twelve working committees under the guidance of His Excellency Amir-ul-Momineen (may Allah protect him) to address the needs of these migrants. He further explained that ANDMA is tasked with providing assistance at the Torkham and Spin Boldak border points, in coordination with other agencies. Alhaj Turabi Sahb highlighted that a standard transit camp has recently been established at the Torkham border. He emphasized the need for assistance to vulnerable and needy populations, stressing that aid must align with the local culture and the specific needs of the people.
Alhaj Turabi Sahb clarified that ANDMA does not demand direct control over aid distribution but believes that aid coordinated with the authority would be more effective. He explained, “People approach us with their issues, and since we are paid to serve them, it is our duty to facilitate the work of aid organizations, ensuring efficiency and transparency in their operations.”
In response, Ms. Susan Saad, the Emergency Shelter Cluster Coordinator, along with her deputy Mr. Mohammad Hashem Niazi and Mr. Mohammad Baqir Haidari, expressed gratitude to the Acting Head of ANDMA. They commended the authority for its swift processing of Memoranda of Understanding with aid organizations, which has enabled them to implement pledged assistance and other projects on time.
The coordinators provided detailed information about their respective areas of operation, stating that teams are present in various border regions of the country to provide assistance to forcibly displaced migrants as needed. Additionally, the Emergency Shelter Cluster coordinators assured that they would convey ANDMA’s Acting Head message to their partner organizations to foster greater cooperation in supporting disaster-affected individuals, vulnerable populations, and migrants.

May 1st, 2025
Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority - ANDMA