A number of farmers in Nangarhar have been cultivating strawberries for several years. They say they have chosen to plant strawberries because the crop produces higher yields and generates greater profits than many other crops.
Agricultural experts in Nangarhar say that although strawberry cultivation requires higher costs and greater care, it is a profitable crop that increases farmers’ incomes, making it a suitable option for farmers.
Meanwhile, officials at the Nangarhar Department of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock say that strawberries have been cultivated on 406 jeribs of land across several districts of the province this year, with an estimated harvest of around 670 metric tons.
Rahimullah, who has cultivated strawberries on one and a half jeribs of land, says he chose the crop because of its good yields and profits.
“This year, I cultivated strawberries on one and a half jeribs of land and earned a profit of around 40,000 to 50,000 Afghanis. Our area is suitable for strawberry cultivation because it has sufficient water and the crop produces good yields. Compared with wheat and other crops, strawberries offer higher yields and greater income,” he adds.
Some other strawberry farmers are calling on relevant authorities and partner organizations to establish specialized markets, provide technical training, and increase support for the sector. They also request access to agricultural fertilizers and improved seeds.
Zainullah, a farmer in Surkh Rod District, says, “If we receive training and some assistance and are provided with fertilizers, God willing, our production will increase. Strawberry cultivation will expand, and more employment opportunities will be created for people.”
Sulaiman, another farmer in Surkh Rod District, says, “We plant strawberries because they are better than many other crops. They give higher yields and sell at good prices. Each kilogram sells for between 150 and 200 Afghanis. Our main problem this year was the high price of fertilizers.”
Meanwhile, agricultural experts emphasize that strawberries require regular care and proper management because the fruit, when in direct contact with the soil, is easily damaged and can lead to losses for farmers.
Kamran Rasouli, an agricultural expert, says that plastic should be placed around strawberry plants to keep the fruit clean and protect it from disease and spoilage.
“The eastern provinces are highly suitable for strawberry production, and this crop offers greater economic profits than many others. However, farmers must pay close attention to maintaining fruit quality. Plastic should be placed under the plants to prevent the fruit from being damaged, as strawberries are highly sensitive and can spoil quickly,” he says.
Officials from the Nangarhar Department of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock say that strawberries are being cultivated this year in the districts of Dara-e-Noor, Kot, Khogyani, and Surkh Rod. They add that awareness programs have been conducted for many farmers to promote and expand strawberry cultivation, and that efforts to expand the program further are ongoing.
Ajmal Subhani, spokesperson for the Nangarhar Department of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, says,
“This year, strawberries have been cultivated on 406 jeribs of land in the districts of Dara-e-Noor, Kot, Surkh Rod, and Khogyani, and an estimated 670 metric tons are expected to be harvested. The Department of Agriculture has held awareness programs for strawberry farmers and plans to establish demonstration plots next year to further expand cultivation and increase production.”
According to the Nangarhar Department of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, farmers cultivated strawberries on 356 jeribs of land across different districts of the province last year, producing 587 metric tons that were harvested and supplied to the market.
Reporter: Wasefullah Osmani
