Three weeks ago, a four-year-old girl named Hadisa underwent a complex brain tumor surgery at a private hospital in Kabul — a procedure that doctors describe as the first of its kind successfully performed in Afghanistan.
Hadisa’s father, Hikmatullah, had traveled from Kunduz to Kabul after scans revealed a life-threatening tumor in his daughter’s brain. Doctors initially told him that her treatment would only be possible abroad, most likely in Pakistan — an option made impossible by recent border closures.
“At first, when they explained the risks, I didn’t want to agree,” Hikmatullah told media. “But I realized there was no other choice. I accepted the risks, and thankfully, the operation was successful.”
The ten-hour surgery was led by Dr. Najibullah Sekandar, a veteran neurosurgeon with 23 years of experience. Speaking after the successful operation, Dr. Sekandar said:
“Brain tumor surgeries are among the most complex neurosurgical procedures. Thankfully, we can now perform such high-level operations here in Afghanistan. People no longer need to go abroad for treatment — these services are available inside the country.”
He described the surgery as a milestone for Afghanistan’s medical community and called for stronger government support and investment in the national healthcare system.
“The government should provide land and facilitate loans for building standard hospitals,” he said.
Dr. Sultan Masoud Farahmand, another senior physician, echoed that message:
“Our people must trust Afghan doctors. The country has the capacity to handle many medical cases that previously required treatment abroad.”
Today, little Hadisa is recovering well and smiling again from her hospital bed — a symbol of hope for countless Afghan families who have long depended on foreign medical care.
The Ministry of Public Health has praised such developments, urging citizens to place their confidence in Afghanistan’s growing medical expertise.
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