KATHMANDU — In a landmark achievement for Afghan sports and women’s empowerment, 31-year-old Zakia Ahmad has become the first Afghan woman in history to reach the summit of Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak.
Known in the mountaineering community by the nickname “River,” Ahmad successfully reached the 8,848-meter summit at 7:20 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2026. She was accompanied by experienced Nepalese guides Dawa Tenzing Sherpa and Phurba Gyaljen Sherpa.
Originally from Jaghori district in Afghanistan’s Ghazni province, Ahmad’s accomplishment is being celebrated as a powerful symbol of perseverance, resilience, and determination. Despite beginning her professional mountaineering career only three years ago, she rapidly established herself as one of Afghanistan’s most promising climbers.
Before taking on Everest, Ahmad had already successfully climbed Mount Noshaq, the highest peak in Afghanistan, as well as Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest mountain. Those achievements helped pave the way for her historic ascent of Everest.
To prepare for the expedition, Ahmad spent more than two months acclimatizing in the Himalayas, undergoing the intense physical and mental preparation required to survive the extreme conditions of high-altitude climbing.
Beyond its sporting significance, Ahmad’s achievement carries deep symbolic importance for Afghan women and girls. Her ascent sends a message of hope and possibility, demonstrating that Afghan women can excel on the international stage despite immense challenges.
Her success has drawn widespread praise from supporters and members of the global mountaineering community, with many describing the achievement as a proud and historic moment for Afghanistan.
