Food distribution has always been a critical aspect of the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat’s COVID-19 relief efforts, but it has been particularly important for many households who lost income and vital remittances due to lockdowns in Tajikistan and abroad.

AKAH

The Government of Tajikistan has recognised and commended these activities at both the regional and national levels. In July, the Governor of GBAO, Yodgor Faizov, noted upon accepting a significant donation of emergency and medical supply items from AKAH, “We are indeed grateful to the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat for the ongoing support. The assistance and support that has been provided since the outbreak of the virus in the Republic of Tajikistan has saved lives, enabling medical workers to provide medical assistance safely and without any limitation thanks to the PPE that has been also provided by the agency.”

For another Rijist resident, 63-year old Fayzullobekova Layli, whose family became dependent on food aid after her husband contracted the virus and could not work, the humanitarian assistance may have saved their lives in more ways than one. “AKAH has had a strong presence here in our village throughout this pandemic,” she said. “The volunteers have provided us knowledge about preventing and managing the disease, with some distributing masks and sanitizers. We’re grateful that in our time of need, we can rely on them.”