LASHKARGAH (Pajhwok): Agriculture officials in southern Helmand province say 16 metric tons of honey was produced in the province ongoing year, which shows increase in the production compared to last year.
Sayed Rafiullah Qalam, acting Helmand agriculture director, told Pajhwok Afghan News that around 400 bee keeping farms were created in Lashkargah, the provincial capital and districts of the province in cooperation with an organization.
He said 16 metric tons of honey was produced from the bee farms this year which he added was increased by 10 percent compared to the last year.
“Most farmers are currently busy on beekeeping, it is a good alternative to growing poppy,” he said.
Qalam said Helmand honey was currently sold only in local markets but efforts were on for selling it in international markets as well.
Abdul Khaliq, a beekeeper in Bolan area of Lashkargah city, told Pajhwok that he owned 90 bee boxes and he was satisfied from the honey he produced from them.
“We collect honey three or four times a year, but there is lack of market for the product and that is the reason we keep it for one more year,” he said.
Esmatullah, another beekeeper said that he collected good amount of honey from his farm this year.
He said local officials should find market for their product locally and other provinces of the country.
Currently a kilogram of good quality honey in Helmand is sold for 500 Afghanis.
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