The Orphans Foundation (Yetimler Vakfı), an international humanitarian organization, has brought relief and joy to thousands of orphaned and impoverished families in Afghanistan during this year’s Eid al-Adha through its annual qurbani (sacrifice) initiative.

The Foundation coordinated the slaughter and distribution of sacrificial animals across six regions—Kunduz, Jalalabad, Helmand, Kandahar, Paktika, and Ghazni—reaching over 15 provinces with the aid of cold chain vehicles to ensure food safety.

Volunteers, including Abdüsselam Demir and Nezir Güneş, meticulously oversaw the process, ensuring compliance with Islamic guidelines. “We took special care in the purchasing, sacrifice, and distribution of the animals,” Demir said. “Each donor’s name was read aloud during the proxy sacrifice, with takbirs recited. We thank every donor who brought smiles to orphans and the needy.”

The initiative prioritized orphans, the elderly, people with disabilities, and families in chronic poverty, addressing the dire needs in a country ravaged by over four decades of war, foreign occupation, and economic instability. “Afghanistan has endured Soviet invasion, U.S. and NATO occupation, and internal conflict,” Demir noted. “These people need care, and we are here to fulfill that duty.”

In collaboration with sister aid groups Hope Caravan, IHO EBRAR, and Orphan Hand, the Foundation sacrificed over 350 cattle. Bahattin Temel, representing the joint effort, described Afghanistan as facing a “deep humanitarian disaster” due to ongoing war, natural disasters, and economic collapse, underscoring the importance of sustained relief efforts.

In Ghazni, where 51 cattle were slaughtered, Mawlawi Saad, director of the Aqsa Education Complex, expressed gratitude to the Turkish volunteers for their 5,000-kilometer journey to support the region’s orphans and families. “Turkey has always stood with us,” Saad said. “May God bless the philanthropists who shared their Eid with us.” He showcased the 50-decare complex, which educates 2,800 students, including 500 orphaned girls, in both religious and scientific studies.

Saad also voiced solidarity with global struggles, stating: “As Afghanistan celebrates its hard-won freedom, we pray for the liberation of Gaza and Palestine. We thank the Orphans Foundation for bringing hope to this remote region.”

Through this extensive Eid al-Adha campaign, the Orphans Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the oppressed, fostering compassion, and building solidarity across borders.

For more information on the Orphans Foundation’s initiatives, visit their official website (https://www.yetimlervakfi.org.tr/). (ILKHA)