QALA-E-NAW, Afghanistan — Shopkeepers in the western province of Badghis voiced concerns over a sharp decline in business as poverty deepens across the region.
In Qala-e-Naw, the provincial capital, local merchants attributed the downturn to widespread hunger and economic hardship among residents.
“We want our mines to be developed so that businesses can thrive and people no longer have to leave for work in other countries,” said Malook, a resident of Badghis.
Abdul Ghafar, another local resident, described the dire living conditions in the province. “We don’t have food or water, and we are in a desperate situation,” he said.
The economic challenges have also affected small industries, including honey production, which has the potential to boost the region’s economy. Local investors in the honey trade said they are forced to sell their products in neighboring provinces, such as Herat, due to the absence of export opportunities.
“If the honey produced here could be exported abroad, it would create jobs and significantly improve livelihoods,” said Abdullah, a resident of Badghis. “But if it is only sold locally, it will not generate enough income to make it worthwhile.”
Abdul Rahim, a honey investor, echoed the sentiment, pointing to the Sabzak area, which is known for its high-quality honey production. “Exporting honey to countries like Iran and Pakistan would be highly beneficial, but there is no market for it,” he said.
Badghis, one of Afghanistan’s more remote provinces, has long suffered from a lack of basic infrastructure, including access to electricity, health services, and paved roads.
Shopkeepers also highlighted the high cost of transporting goods to the province, which has led to higher prices for essential items compared with other parts of the country.
The worsening economic situation in Badghis reflects broader challenges across Afghanistan, where poverty and food insecurity have surged over the past three years.
