The Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock in Afghanistan has been actively distributing seeds and plants to farmers for the cultivation of alternative crops such as saffron, heng, cotton, castor, aloe vera, and sesame. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to replace poppy cultivation following a decree by the Islamic Emirate leader that prohibits the growth of poppy crops across the country.
Misbahuddin Mustaeen, the spokesperson for the ministry, highlighted the introduction of various alternative crops and the establishment of citrus orchards in different provinces. The ministry has also launched training programs to support farmers in transitioning to these new crops. "We have introduced alternative crops, including medicinal plants like heng and economically viable plants such as saffron, aloe vera, citrus orchards, honey production, and pear orchards," Mustaeen stated.
Economic analyst Abdul Zahoor Madabar commented on the potential of these alternative crops to bolster the Afghan economy, citing the country's favorable climate for a diverse range of agricultural products including saffron, licorice, nuts, and fruits.
Despite these efforts, some farmers like Shah Mohammad and Mohammad Sabir have expressed concerns over the need for further support from the government, particularly in the provision of seeds and essential farming inputs. In response, the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock mentioned the distribution of approximately 100,000 tons of improved seeds and 200,000 tons of chemical fertilizers to farmers nationwide, with support from both domestic and international organizations.
Source: Tolo News