In Kunduz province, an increase in grape production has been observed, yet farmers are confronted with challenges such as the absence of a market and cold storage facilities. The local farmers have accused the Taliban of not providing essential agricultural inputs like chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or improved seeds, highlighting that their presence is mostly felt during the collection of tithe and zakat, benefiting only their affiliates.
The shift towards grape cultivation in Kunduz has been motivated by the suitability of the soil for this crop, leading to higher yields. Despite this, the lack of a market has resulted in a significant drop in grape prices, forcing farmers to sell their produce at lower rates to prevent spoilage. The situation is exacerbated by the absence of cold storage facilities, which leads to economic losses for farmers like Gul Mohammad and Qalandar, who struggle to find buyers for their surplus production.
Concerns have also been raised about the Taliban's Directorate of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock in Kunduz, which is criticized for focusing solely on tax collection without providing necessary support or services to the farming community. Conversely, some traders and vendors recognize the high quality of Kunduz grapes, advocating for the establishment of export routes and cold storage facilities to enhance the sector's profitability and reduce the need for fruit imports during off-seasons.
Local Taliban officials report a 90% increase in grape production, with significant quantities harvested. Despite the potential for agriculture and horticulture to support livelihoods in Kunduz, the lack of support for farmers continues to hinder the sector's growth. An earlier report highlighted the agricultural potential of Kunduz, emphasizing the need for comprehensive management projects to support the province's farming community.
Source: Hasht-e-Subh Daily