The Kabul Tribune (KT) — The United Nations Development Programme has implemented two major projects in Afghanistan aimed at promoting alternative livelihoods and rural rehabilitation, the organization’s representative in the country said during a meeting with the Taliban's acting minister of agriculture, irrigation and livestock.
According to a statement from the Taliban's Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, the two sides discussed expanding cooperation in agriculture, irrigation, livelihood development and infrastructure projects. They also exchanged views on strengthening the agricultural sector and broadening joint development initiatives.
UNDP representative Stephen Rodriques said the alternative livelihoods project has provided chemical fertilizers to 2,000 farmers, established greenhouses, created market opportunities for agricultural products and implemented various agricultural support programs.
He added that the rural rehabilitation program has completed 270 infrastructure projects across Afghanistan, including irrigation canals, check dams and other irrigation facilities.
Meanwhile, the Taliban's acting minister of agriculture said the ministry is working to boost domestic agricultural production and reduce reliance on imported agricultural products. He said customs tariffs on selected imports, particularly vegetables, fruits and powdered milk, have been increased to support local producers and improve the livelihoods of farmers and livestock owners.
