The European Union and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization have launched a €5 million programme to strengthen Afghanistan’s agrifood sector. Ariana News reported that the initiative aims to improve market access, incomes and resilience to climate and economic shocks.
Returnees, internally displaced families, host communities, women and young people are among the intended beneficiaries. Four one-stop service hubs will connect farmers and rural entrepreneurs with advice, specialized services, businesses and markets, while FAO will provide climate analysis and early-warning information.
The programme also plans to restore 2,000 hectares of degraded forests and rangelands and support 250 women- and community-led nurseries. Selected agrifood enterprises will receive matching grants and technical and business support.