A newly renovated medical facility in Parahatchylyk village, located in Turkmenistan’s Akhal Province near the Afghan border, has officially opened. Supported by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the facility is set to provide high-quality healthcare services to over 1,000 local residents and Afghan nationals living in the village.
The inauguration coincided with Turkmenistan’s Independence Day celebrations and was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, local officials, community members, and Afghan representatives.
The upgraded facility offers specialized rooms for gynecological, immunization, and therapeutic services, along with two newly added consultation rooms. These spaces are fully equipped with modern medical devices, computer equipment, and new furniture. The renovation project saw the involvement of 18 Afghan workers and four local community members, promoting collaboration and unity.
During the opening ceremony, officials praised the refurbishment as a result of successful cooperation between IOM and national partners.
Dovlet Chariyev, Project Associate at IOM Turkmenistan, emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “This collaboration has helped expand socio-economic opportunities for vulnerable groups, particularly women and girls, while promoting social cohesion between local communities and Afghan nationals. The initiative is a step toward ensuring long-term sustainable development at the local level.”
The renovation is part of IOM’s broader regional initiative, “Comprehensive Action Plan for Afghanistan and Neighboring Countries,” aimed at supporting Afghan nationals and local communities. A Mobile Resource Center within this program has already provided medical services and legal consultations to more than 4,000 individuals across Akhal and Lebap provinces.
Aga Murad Emin, leader of the Afghan community in Parahatchylyk village, expressed optimism about the facility’s long-term benefits. “This newly renovated medical center will enhance the quality of healthcare in our village, particularly in gynecological and therapeutic services, and ensure residents receive necessary immunizations for a healthier future.”
In addition to the medical facility, the project has also introduced vocational training for 50 women at the Vocational School of the Ministry of Energy in Mary, with 17 of the trainees successfully launching their own businesses. The project is made possible through funding from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
