Celebrating Afghanistan Independence Day with Penny Appeal

Afghanistan Independence Day, celebrated each year on the 19th of August, marks Afghanistan’s independence from British rule in 1919.

The Independence Day celebration has long been an important event for the Afghan people, and has widely been used to promote peace and democratic aspirations within the country. The 100th anniversary, in 2019, was an opportunity for Afghans to reflect on their country's history and its tumultuous progress over the previous century.

Of course, the day has often been overshadowed by the ongoing violence and instability across the country. In times of hardship, it can be hard to find the joy in what should be an occasion for celebration. Despite this, the Afghan people remain resilient in the face of adversity, and Independence Day remains an important date in the national calendar. It is a reminder of Afghanistan’s journey since 1919, and a day for Afghans to come together and look ahead with hope to a brighter future.

Mahjabeen, 10, of Kabul, enjoys her village's Solar Panel Water & Power Centre, from Penny Appeal

Penny Appeal has had a presence in Afghanistan since 2019, providing aid primarily through our Emergency Response appeal. Prior to the fall of Kabul in 2019, we had helped over 15,000 people (primarily internally-displaced people) through our emergency relief efforts, via the delivery of food packs, hygiene kits, medical supplies, and, during the Covid-19 pandemic, PPE kits, oxygen tanks and oximeters. Through our Thirst Relief and Education First programmes, we further helped to improve the quality of life for vulnerable people, through the construction of schools and solar-powered water wells.

The provision of emergency food, hygiene, water and Fitrana cash grants to internally dispalced people (IDPs) in Kabul

Following the flight of Afghan refugees to the UK following the 2021 violence, Penny Appeal has worked determinedly to support these new arrivals as they settle into their new lives. Here, our work has focused on assisting families as they are relocated to hotels through our partnership with Local Authorities, in addition to fostering partnerships that provide education for women and promoting emotional wellbeing for individuals who have gone through trauma and loss.

A report released earlier this week suggested that many Afghan refugees are still being let down by the system upon their arrival in the UK, with many facing eviction from hotels and facing homelessness. Penny Appeal calls on the UK government to ensure that these refugees receive the support they need during this difficult time. But it is clear that civil society also has an important role to play in ensuring that Afghan refugees can not only survive, but thrive. By donating to Penny Appeal's Afghanistan Emergency UK Appeal, you can provide support to refugees in the UK and ensure that they are given the chance to build a better life for themselves.

Hifz Orphan Shaheen with his copy of the Holy Qu'ran

On Afghanistan Independence Day, let us all stand together in solidarity with our Afghan brothers and sisters - both here, and in their homeland - who are facing adversity. Now more than ever, it is essential to provide stronger humanitarian aid for Afghanistan, so that Afghans everywhere can continue their quest for a better future. Let us hope that peace and prosperity can once again be enjoyed by all.

Click here to donate to Penny Appeal’s Afghanistan Emergency appeal.

Click here to donate to Penny Appeal’s Afghanistan UK Emergency appeal.