Tomato farmers in Ghazni Province say their greenhouse crops are failing this season, with many reporting stunted growth and widespread spoilage before harvest, underscoring broader challenges in Afghanistan’s under-supported agricultural sector.
Speaking to Amu TV, greenhouse owners and farmers said months of labor have yielded little return, blaming the situation on poor-quality seeds, inadequate technical training, and limited access to markets.
“We’re being charged high prices for seeds, but we don’t receive quality agricultural products,” said Sami, a farmer in Ghazni. “And we’ve had no access to professional training. We lose our crops when the weather turns against us.”
Several growers reported that even the tomatoes that do survive to maturity face weak demand in local markets. Farmers called for more structured support, including both agricultural consultation and help connecting with buyers.
Kazim, another farmer, noted that fluctuating climate conditions may be contributing to poor yields. “Maybe the weather here isn’t ideal,” he said. “And we don’t have an agricultural expert to guide us with proper techniques.”
Others cited financial strain due to mounting debt for fertilizer and materials. “Last year was a good season, but this year the crops are small and not marketable,” said Jabar, a grower in Ghazni. “I haven’t even paid for the fertilizer you see here. I don’t know what to do, or what will happen next.”
Agricultural experts warn that the situation reflects a broader crisis facing farmers across Afghanistan, many of whom lack access to improved seed varieties, fertilizer, irrigation, and basic agricultural extension services.
Economic analysts say that expanding support to the agricultural sector — including training, inputs, and access to markets — could provide critical short-term employment opportunities and bolster rural livelihoods at a time when unemployment is high and job creation is scarce.
Earlier this year, some farmers reported abandoning agriculture altogether due to the lack of institutional support.
