It's been nearly 10 years since the war in Afghanistan started. Over 17 billion dollars have been spent there, but the country is still one of the poorest in the world. Today, nearly half of its people are living in poverty. 1 in 5 children won't live to see their fifth birthday. While international support has improved the lives of some, we still have a long way to go to meet basic needs across the country.

You can help join the fight against poverty in Afghanistan by adding your voice – literally – to our voice petition. It only takes 1 minute and it couldn't be simpler:

1. Call this toll-free number: 1800 425 220

2. When prompted enter this code: 5743

3. After the beep, say your name, what you do and where you're from, followed by "Afghanistan: People First." And then press # to end the call.

Your personal message will be collected with thousands of others, and edited into a video that will be played out loud outside the upcoming summits, to strengthen our call for help for the people of Afghanistan.

Once you've recorded your voice, listen to what others are saying and where they are calling from. If you're not keen on recording a voice message, you can also sign the online petition.

Reducing poverty must be our top priority. It's time to renew and increase our commitment to Afghanistan. And for that reason we say – Afghanistan: People First!

Campaign update

On 20 July 2010, world leaders met to discuss the future of Afghanistan at the Kabul Conference. Oxfam asked ordinary Afghans what they wanted to come out of the talks. Watch the video.