Several farmers in Balkh province say that, in addition to recurring drought and water shortages driven by climate change in recent years, infestations of Moroccan locusts have emerged as a new threat to their agricultural crops.
Some women in Sar-e Pol say that a lack of awareness about the importance of birth spacing, along with family pressure, beliefs, and traditions, has led them to have repeated pregnancies. They add that this has caused serious health problems and, in some cases, miscarriage.
In recent years, the implementation of several projects in Ghazni has increased hope among farmers and livestock farmers. These projects include building greenhouses, setting up poultry farms, dairy production, tailoring programs for women, and conducting educational trainings. These projects are now ongoing in the provincial center and some districts.
Legal experts and religious scholars emphasize that women have the right to insert lawful conditions in the marriage certificate (Nikah Nama) prior to marriage, and if the husband fails to act in accordance with such conditions, the wife may demand her rights through legal channels. However, some women complain that after years of marriage, the very conditions agreed by their husbands’ side prior to the marriage certificate have not been fulfilled.
A youth in Badakhshan has developed softwares that simplifies everyday tasks for users. Amin Shahraniz, a 27-year-old graduate of the Computer Science Faculty at Badakhshan University, says he developed the “Nakhak” and “Chatyar” applications in just over one month at a cost of 10,000 Afghanis.
In several districts of Panjshir Province, about 15 jeribs of land have been set aside as demonstration plots for row planting of wheat. This initiative has been launched by the Department of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock to promote improved farming methods and increase crop yields.
A number of obstetricians and gynecologists at Malalai Hospital say that premarital counseling is important for both girls and boys, and that examinations such as blood group and Rh factor, hormonal tests, spermograms, evaluations of male and female reproductive health, and uterine health checks are essential before marriage.
A number of farmers in Kunduz told Salam Watandar that climate change and the continued use of chemical fertilizers have created challenges for traditional farming methods.
Although Islamic Sharia emphasizes consultation and mutual family understanding in decision-making — including marriage — in many families in Afghanistan the role of mothers in this process is overlooked, and they are excluded from decision-making.
With the arrival of spring, the flower and plant market has taken on a fresh look, and youth working in this sector report increased sales during this season. Many of them turned to this profession because of their personal interest and the lack of job opportunities. By cultivating different kinds of ornamental plants, they not only beautify the environment but also create a source of income for themselves.
She has plans for the future and wants to expand her flower cultivation. She says, “I tell all women not to lose hope. Start with small steps and believe in yourselves. Every woman can make a difference.”
Doctors believe that although Tetanus vaccination is vital for preventing life-threatening diseases in mothers and newborns, some women in Jawzjan province have not received the vaccine due to a lack of awareness, economic difficulties, and limited access to health services.
