A Light in the Heart of Darkness: A Brave Young Man’s Fight Against Polio
Kabul, Afghanistan – The day is slowly coming to an end, and the last glimmer of sunlight is vanishing from the city’s sky. But unlike others, the work of a 29-year-old volunteer, Fazal Karim is only just beginning.
Together with his colleagues, he stands at the southeastern gate of Kabul city—located in the Sang-e-Noweshteh area of Chahar Asyab District—peering into every passing vehicle in the darkness of night, with only one goal in mind: to administer two drops of the polio vaccine to each child.
This gate is considered one of Kabul city’s busiest and most important entry points, with thousands of people from the southeastern provinces passing through it daily on their way to and from the capital.
At the sight of each child, Fazal Karim opens his blue box and administers two drops of the polio vaccine into their mouth, aiming to prevent the transmission and spread of the poliovirus.
Originally from Mihtarlam city in Laghman province, he now lives in the Pul-e Safeed area of Kabul. For the past four years, he has been part of the fight against polio.
Though he graduated from the faculty of law, he chose to prioritize saving lives over pursuing a career in justice and legal affairs. “At university, I learned what justice means,” he says, “but here, I’ve learned the true value of human life. Now, I see every child as my own.”
Fazal Karim prepares for his night shift duty. © Polio Free Afghanistan / 2025
Harsh Nights, But Tireless Struggle
Whether it’s hot or cold, raining or snowing, Fazal Karim and his colleagues remain unwavering in their resolve, continuing their work no matter the conditions.
“No matter how harsh the weather gets, we are here to deliver vaccines to the children of our country and protect them from the crippling and deadly disease of polio,” Fazal Karim states firmly.
For him, this is not just a job—it’s a moral responsibility.
A Shared Mission to Protect Children
At this checkpoint, security forces stand alongside the vaccinators, not only safeguarding the area, but also helping to stop vehicles and facilitate the vaccination process.
A security guard named Rahimullah says, “These young men are working with sincerity to protect our children. We try our best to support them and stand by their side.”
Fazal Karim appreciates their role and adds, “The support of the security forces strengthens our work. Without their backing, our job would be much more difficult.”
Fazal Karim administers the polio vaccine to a child by the roadside. © Polio Free Afghanistan / 2025
The Value of Vaccination
Administering the vaccine alone is not enough; raising awareness about its importance is equally vital. Fazal Karim makes it a priority to convey to parents how essential the polio vaccine is in preventing the disease.
He says these two tiny drops protect a child from polio, so they won’t become a burden on their family and community in the future.
“My message to all families is this: don’t deprive your children of the blessing of vaccination, because a small act of negligence can lead to a lifetime of regret,” he adds.
Voices of Praise: Saluting Courage
Travelers along the road express their appreciation for Fazal Karim and the tireless efforts of his fellow volunteers.
A taxi driver named Akbar, who had just arrived from Khost, said, “I pass through this road every day and see these young men working with love and dedication, no matter the conditions. This is not just an ordinary service—it is a noble mission to safeguard the lives of future generations.”
Dr. Siddiqullah Noori, a traveler riding with Akbar, also praised the volunteers’ efforts, saying, “These volunteers are the true heroes of Afghanistan. With limited resources but unwavering commitment, they are protecting children’s lives from the deadly threat of polio.”
Fazal Karim shares information with a traveler about the dangers of polio and the importance of vaccination. © Polio Free Afghanistan / 2025
Hope for a Brighter Future
Despite the fatigue and challenges, Fazal Karim and his colleagues light the torches of hope every night. Their struggle is not just for today—it is for a brighter tomorrow.
Fazal Karim says, “I dream of an Afghanistan where no child falls victim to polio. My colleagues and I will continue fulfilling our responsibility until every child is protected from this disease.”
