Sellers of fruit saplings in Nangarhar say that after trade routes with Pakistan were closed, interest has increased in establishing orchards of fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and kinnow oranges—items that are usually imported.
According to them, many people are now trying to gradually boost domestic production of these fruits and reduce reliance on imports.
Sapling seller Gul Hakim said: “We are trying to cultivate alternative plants for fruits like mangoes, kinnow, bananas, and oranges that used to come from Pakistan.”
Another seller, Najibullah, said: “We prepared these saplings last year as well, but this year we have produced more. Demand for these saplings is high, and many people want to establish orchards.”
Sapling sellers emphasize that serious support is needed to further develop this sector. They point out that the lack of improved seeds, limited professional training, and challenges related to greenhouses and water management are major issues facing farmers and orchard owners.
They are calling on relevant authorities to provide training programs in modern agriculture, as well as support for irrigation systems and access to high-quality saplings.
Nursery owner Raz Mohammad said: “We ask the Department of Agriculture to provide us with water, electricity, and greenhouse facilities. Some of our people also need support in building greenhouses.”
Another nursery owner, Mahmood, added: “We request the government to provide training on these plants, ensure water availability, and help us establish greenhouses.”
Meanwhile, officials from the Nangarhar Department of Agriculture say they are currently researching 66 varieties of citrus fruits, including kinnow.
According to them, in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture, efforts have begun to promote mango and banana cultivation and develop improved varieties to provide farmers with high-quality and productive saplings.
Officials also noted that there are plans to strengthen nurseries through training programs, with participation from the private sector.
Ajmal Subhani, spokesperson for the Nangarhar Department of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock, said: “We are currently working on 66 types of citrus, including kinnow. We are trying to identify plants that are suitable for Afghanistan, especially Nangarhar’s climate. We have also shared plans with the ministry regarding mangoes and bananas and aim to cultivate their saplings in the future.”
Agricultural experts believe that Nangarhar, due to its warm climate, is one of the most suitable provinces in Afghanistan for growing citrus fruits, mangoes, and bananas. With proper support for investors and orchard owners, the country could significantly reduce imports of these fruits.
