Dr. Tetsu Nakamura: A Life Dedicated to Humanity and Hope in Afghanistan
Dr. Tetsu Nakamura was a Japanese physician and humanitarian who dedicated over three decades of his life to providing crucial medical aid and vital infrastructure development in Afghanistan and Pakistan. His profound commitment to alleviating suffering and fostering self-reliance transformed countless lives.
Born in Fukuoka, Japan, in 1946, Dr. Nakamura studied medicine at Kyushu University. His early work involved treating Hansen's disease (leprosy). In 1984, he first traveled to Pakistan as a volunteer physician, working with Japanese missionaries. Witnessing the dire health conditions and the plight of Afghan refugees there deeply impacted him.
This experience shifted his focus to Afghanistan. In 1991, he established Peace Japan Medical Services (PMS) in Peshawar, Pakistan, initially providing medical care to Afghan refugees. As Afghanistan's situation deteriorated due to prolonged war and severe drought, he realized that medical treatment alone was insufficient. He famously stated, "A clinic can save 100 people, but one canal can save 100,000." This realization marked a pivotal shift in his mission.
Witnessing the devastating impact of drought on local communities in Afghanistan, Dr. Nakamura began to focus PMS's efforts on agricultural and irrigation projects. Inspired by traditional Japanese irrigation techniques, he embarked on ambitious canal construction.
His most notable achievement was spearheading the construction of the Gamberi irrigation canal system. This extensive project, stretching over 25 kilometers, diverted water from the Kunar River, transforming vast arid lands into fertile farmlands. This effort allowed hundreds of thousands of farmers to grow crops and sustain themselves. Beyond canals, he also initiated tree-planting campaigns to combat desertification and continued to oversee the drilling of wells for drinking water and the operation of clinics in remote areas.
His work wasn't just about engineering; it was about empowering local communities, providing sustainable livelihoods, and restoring dignity. He was widely known for working directly alongside Afghan laborers, sharing their hardships, and earning their deep respect and affection.
Dr. Nakamura's unwavering dedication earned him widespread recognition both in Japan and internationally.
Tragically, Dr. Nakamura was assassinated in Afghanistan on December 4, 2019. His death sent shockwaves globally, but his profound legacy continues to inspire. The irrigation projects he initiated still provide water and life to over 650,000 people across 16,500 hectares of land. His life and work stand as a powerful testament to the impact one individual can have through selfless service and an unwavering commitment to peace and sustainable development.
"What the people need is not weapons or tanks, but water and food. Building a clinic can save 100 people, but digging a canal can save 100,000."
Tetsu Nakamura