13 July 2010 - Kandahar’s first-ever charity-supported hospital was inaugurated in the city last week.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony Abdul Qayum “Pokhla,” head public health department of the Haji Rathmathullah Charity Hospital, called this is a major milestone for the poor and needy people of Kandahar province.

The total number of private hospitals or clinics in Kandahar has now reached 57. However, this is the first charity hospital established by a businessman (Haji Rahmatullah) that will provide free of cost health services to the poorer citizens of the community.

The hospital initially has 15 beds, and, according to Abdul Qayum, “qualified and experienced doctors will provide…health services to around 300 patients.”

The hospital has plans to upgrade to 120 beds.

By Mujeeb Rahman, UNAMA