KABUL (SW) – Price hike has hit Afghans hard as Eid al-Adha approaches and Kabul residents prepare to host guests with traditional dried and fresh fruits, along with various sweets.
These residents say that they have come to the city to buy these items despite the high prices, aiming to honor their guests. Some of them mentioned that due to financial constraints, they can only afford to buy a small amount of Eid fruits.
Latif, a Kabul resident, said, “In previous Eids, I would buy one or one and a half kilograms of each item, but now I buy only half a kilogram to maintain my dignity in front of guests, even though I can’t afford more.”
Although, the prices in Kabul markets currently are steep as one kilogram of American almonds costs 400 Afghanis, one kilogram of pistachios is 650 Afghanis, one kilogram of walnuts is 500 Afghanis, one kilogram of raisins is 250 Afghanis, and one kilogram of noddle crisps is 150 Afghanis. Similarly, one kilogram of cookies and other sweets ranges from 150 to 200 Afghanis.
Despite these prices, shopkeepers in Kabul’s Mandawi market also report increased business as Eid al-Adha approaches. Farid Hasanzada, a shopkeeper, said, “Thank God, business is good. Compared to previous Eids, there is a lot of hustle and bustle this year, and business has improved.”
However, many women in Kabul have been enthusiastically engaged in the Eid preparations, investing time and effort in cleaning and embellishing their homes.
Zhala, another resident of Kabul, shared her perspective while shopping for clothes, underlining the importance of the occasion: “As Eid approaches, I’m busy purchasing attire for myself and my family. Women in our community take great pride in beautifying and tidying our homes in anticipation of Eid, ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere for our guests during this festive time.”
According to the announcement by the Supreme Court of the de-facto government of the Islamic Emirate, Eid al-Adha in Afghanistan will begin on coming Monday.
