I’m running the 2026 London Marathon to raise money for Afghanaid - because they support Afghan communities through community-led development and help people shape their own futures. 

I spent almost three years living and working in Afghanistan, so I understand first-hand how important support like this is.

Afghanaid works with local people to identify needs, plan and run projects, and build sustainable solutions - from training and tools to improving livelihoods, strengthening resilience to natural disasters, and supporting households at greatest risk. The 2025 stats are impressive:

✔️ 1.4 million men, women and children were supported through our projects.
✔️ 139,900 trees planted through our climate adaptation programming.
✔️ 600,000 people supported to earn incomes, grow crops and strengthen food security.
✔️ 54,000 earthquake-affected Afghans supported with emergency relief, including shelter, food and heating equipment.
✔️ 8,400 men, women and children supported to access clean drinking water and vital sanitation facilities.
✔️ 63,000 metres of road built or renovated, ensuring rural communities can access key services.

I’m fundraising now because this locally driven approach, giving Afghans a voice in their own development, is effective, sustainable, and empowering. Even a small donation can change people's lives:

📖 £12.50 could buy the required stationary and booklets for a woman learning literacy so she can live with independence.
🚰 £50 could cover the costs of a water tap, giving a village access to clean drinking water.
📦 £100 could provide an emergency food parcel to feed a whole family for 1 month when they are in greatest need.

💙 Please support my run and help communities in Afghanistan continue to build better lives for themselves, their families and their neighbours. 💙 Henry Collis