Kabul – The Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MoAIL) has announced a projected increase in sweet orange production for the current harvest year in eastern Nangarhar province. Official estimates place the yield at 2,214 metric tonnes (MT), representing a year-over-year increase of approximately five percent.
According to a detailed statement from MoAIL, this positive outlook is driven by strategic agricultural expansion and enhanced cultivation practices. The total area dedicated to sweet orange orchards has grown to 215.6 hectares across 13 districts, including Kuz Kunar, Darah Noor, Goshta, Rodat, and Chaparhar. This marks an expansion from 204.6 hectares cultivated last year, which yielded 2,108.75 MT.
The ministry attributes the rising production not only to the increased orchard footprint but also to targeted support programs for local farmers. “Hundreds of orchard owners have received modern agricultural tools, along with essential training in advanced orchard management, scientific fertilizer application, efficient irrigation techniques, and disease prevention,” the statement noted. These initiatives are designed to boost both the quality and quantity of the citrus harvest.
Nangarhar’s favourable agro-climatic conditions—including a suitable climate, fertile soil, and reliable water resources—solidify its status as a national leader in citrus production. The province’s output of oranges, lemons, and other fruits plays a critical role in supplying domestic markets and generating valuable export revenue.
Looking ahead, MoAIL reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthening the horticulture sector. Plans are underway to establish new citrus and fruit orchards for interested farmers in the coming year, aiming to bolster the agricultural economy and improve livelihoods across the region.
This anticipated increase in sweet orange yield underscores the potential of targeted agricultural investment and expertise to enhance food security and economic resilience in Afghanistan.
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