The Afghan government has taken steps to address the issue of poppy cultivation and provide alternative livelihoods for farmers:
Alternative Livelihoods Plan
Kabul 24: The Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) has formed a special committee to finalize a five-year alternative livelihood plan for poppy farmers.
The plan includes alternative livelihood projects aimed at strengthening farmers’ economy, reducing and eliminating poppy cultivation, and encouraging farmers to grow legitimate and diverse crops.
Need for Sustainable Support
Some experts believe the only way to completely eradicate drugs is to offer alternative cultivation, but with ongoing support and monitoring for farmers.
Farmers should be provided with sustainable support, including refined seeds and chemical fertilizers, to help them transition away from poppy cultivation.
International Assistance
Japan has announced $10 million in funding to support alternative livelihoods for former poppy farmers in Afghanistan, through the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
The funds will also support drug use prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration services for the most vulnerable communities.
The targeted provinces for this aid are Badakhshan, Helmand, and Kandahar.
