The Department of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock in Kandahar has reported higher onion yields this season compared to last year, despite a slight reduction in the total cultivated area.
According to Maulvi Shamsurrahman Mosa, head of agricultural affairs at the department, approximately 1,950 hectares of land were planted with onions across Kandahar's central district and surrounding areas this year, producing more than 68,000 tons.
Although this year's cultivated area is smaller than last year's 2,050 hectares, yields have improved. In 2024, farmers harvested about 71,000 tons of onions from the larger area.
Mosa attributed the higher yield to better pest control and improved irrigation practices. "The effective application of pesticides against crop pests and improved irrigation management have contributed to better yields," he said.
A portion of Kandahar's onion crop is sold domestically, while the remainder is exported to neighboring countries, primarily India and Pakistan.
However, the department also warned that several challenges continue to affect the region's agricultural sector. These include limited government assistance, underdeveloped export infrastructure, and restricted access to key farming services under the current Taliban administration.
Agricultural officials stated that addressing these issues will be essential to sustain and expand future production levels.
Source: AtlasPress
