Jawzjan women farmers turn to modern methods to beat drought — Pajhwok

SHIBERGHAN (Pajhwok): Some women farmers in northern Jawzjan province say drought and climate change have created serious challenges for their agricultural activities, but they are adopting modern irrigation methods, solar energy and crop diversification to protect their families’ livelihoods. Afghanistan is an agricultural country, with a large proportion of its population, particularly in rural areas, relying on farming for their livelihoods. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), more than 70 percent of Afghans are engaged in agriculture, while women account for 43 percent of the agricultural workforce. Women farmers: Cultivating hope amid climate change Najila, 43, from Baba Ali village in Jawzjan, has been farming for 15 years. The mother of five said agriculture is the sole source of income for her family. “Farming depends heavily on weather conditions. Some years we have good harvests, but when rainfall decreases, all our hard work is lost. Even when crops grow well, storms or hail can destroy them. Water scarcity is one of our biggest challenges,” she said. She said her family had in recent years begun using wells, solar-powered systems and drip irrigation to conserve water and reduce wastage. Najila cultivates tomatoes, okra, aubergines, peppers, vegetables, cucumbers, watermelons and melons on three jeribs of land each year. She said the income from the crops helps support her household. “Climate…