Livestock farmers in the Ab Kamari district of northwestern Badghis province say they are being forced to purchase grazing land at exorbitant prices, as natural pastures have dwindled in recent years.
Farmers report paying between 50,000 and 200,000 Afghanis ($734 to $2,938) for access to grazing areas, an expense they say is pushing the once-thriving livestock industry in Badghis into decline.
A group of herders from various parts of western Afghanistan gathered in Ab Kamari, seeking to save their animals from starvation, voiced frustration over the situation.
“Livestock farming used to be good. There was grass in the mountains and plains. But now, there’s nothing,” said Jan Mohammad, a shepherd in Badghis. “At least here, we can find some grass, but we have to buy it.”
Farmers also blame the lack of support from Taliban authorities for the downturn in the region’s livestock trade. Abdullah, another herder, added: “We come to Badghis in the fourth month of the year and have to pay anywhere from 100,000 to 200,000 Afghanis for grazing land. The situation for livestock farmers is dire.”
Rostam, a shepherd in the region, echoed those concerns: “The livestock industry is in very bad shape. Wherever we go, we have to buy everything—barley, maize, straw. We’re farming with our own money.”
Badghis was once renowned for its favorable climate, making it an ideal location for livestock farming. However, in recent years, herders say their livelihood has steadily declined due to rising costs and dwindling resources.
