The World Food Program (WFP) has announced that it is supporting saffron farmers in Afghanistan by providing seeds and necessary expertise.
On Saturday, December 28, the WFP shared a video on X/ Twitter, revealing that hundreds of women in various parts of the country are currently working in the saffron industry.
According to the World Food Program, saffron cultivation serves as a means to feed families and create sustainable opportunities for local communities.
The WFP also stated that it is collaborating with farmers in the saffron processing sector to improve the value chain and enhance production.
Saffron is considered one of Afghanistan’s most valuable industrial crops, recognized for its high quality. For several years, it has been awarded the top ranking for the best taste, and is exported to many countries, especially in the Arab world, India, and China.
Previously, the International Taste Institute of Belgium had announced that Afghanistan’s saffron had won the first-place award for the ninth consecutive time, being recognized as the “most flavorful” saffron in the world.
Recently, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) also reported its support for saffron farmers, providing saffron bulbs and training in cultivation techniques.
According to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce of Afghanistan, 80 tons of saffron worth $20.5 million were exported to regional and international markets in the first half of this year.
The efforts to support Afghanistan saffron farmers are not only helping to improve the livelihoods of local communities but also positioning Afghanistan as a key player in the global saffron market. By focusing on sustainable agriculture and creating opportunities for women, these initiatives have the potential to positively impact the economy for years to come.
Continued investment in agriculture, education, and infrastructure will be essential to further develop Afghanistan’s saffron industry. If maintained, these efforts could lead to greater stability and growth for the people, helping it to become a leading exporter of high-quality saffron worldwide.
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