Afghanistan: Taliban take more territory

The head of the Afghan army has been sacked following a rapid offensive by the Taliban who've taken over nine provincial capitals. The key northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif is now under pressure from the militants. Regional experts say its fall would be catastrophic for the government. We get the latest developments from our reporter in the capital Kabul.

Also, we hear a conversation amongst Afghani students. With the continued escalation of violence, and the uncertainty surrounding the country's future, we hear about their hopes, fears and aspirations.

And one of our regular coronavirus health experts, Dr Maria Sundaram, infectious disease epidemiologist at ICES Ontario in Toronto, answers listener’s questions. You can send in a question via WhatsApp on +447730 751925.

(Photo: A member of the Afghan security forces stands guard in Rodat district of Nangarhar province, Afghanistan, 11 August 2021. Credit: EPA/GHULAMULLAH HABIBI)