Afghanistan launches medicinal plant project to boost agriculture
Ministry of Agriculture begins cultivation initiative in Parwan province aimed at expanding medicinal crops and supporting local economy
KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — Afghanistan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock has begun cultivating medicinal plants in Parwan province, in a move officials say will diversify crops and strengthen rural livelihoods at a time of economic strain.
The pilot project is being carried out in Sheikh Ali district, where one jerib of land — equal to roughly 0.2 hectares, or about half an acre — has been allocated at a state-run farm. According to the ministry, 8.4 kilograms of medicinal plant seeds are being sown following field surveys and technical assessments.
Officials hope the initiative will encourage farmers to add high-value crops to their production, generate new income, and reduce reliance on traditional staples.
A delegation of senior ministry officials responsible for natural resources, medicinal plant development, and nurseries visited Sheikh Ali to oversee the launch. During their trip, they also inspected apple orchards and tree nurseries in the district, reviewing their condition and identifying areas where farmers need additional support.
Parwan is known for fruit cultivation, and authorities say integrating medicinal crops could help balance local agriculture and create new market opportunities.
The ministry has described the project as part of a broader program to promote sustainable farming in Afghanistan. Officials argue that medicinal plants — widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and herbal remedies — offer export potential as well as domestic benefits.
If the Parwan project is successful, similar cultivation schemes could be introduced in other provinces.
Afghanistan’s agriculture sector has faced mounting challenges due to climate change, limited irrigation, and economic instability.
By encouraging farmers to grow crops with commercial and medicinal value, the government hopes to create jobs, attract investment, and provide alternatives to water-intensive farming. Authorities also link the initiative to long-term goals of food security and self-sufficiency.
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