Farmers in the western province of Herat say humanitarian organizations are no longer providing the support and technical guidance they once received as the spring planting season begins.
Residents of Guzara district in Herat province say farmers previously relied on aid groups for agricultural advice and supplies, but many say that assistance has stopped this year.
Rahmatullah, a farmer working in his orchard in the district, said growers need technical guidance from agricultural organizations but have not received any support this season.
“In previous years the situation was better and we received assistance,” he said. “They used to provide fertilizer and help solve some of our problems, but this year we have received no help.”
Some orchard owners say that in addition to agricultural advice, farmers also need access to chemical fertilizers during the spring season.
Azizullah, who owns a garden in the district, said fertilizers sold in local markets are often low quality.
“The Herat agriculture department should regulate the market so poor-quality fertilizers are not sold,” he said. “Unfortunately, there are many low-quality fertilizers in Herat’s markets.”
Guzara district is considered one of the fertile agricultural areas of Herat province. But farmers say reduced support, water shortages and poor-quality fertilizers are among the biggest challenges facing agriculture in the area.
