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FARAH PROVINCE, Afghanistan (February 19, 2008) - Afghan and
coalition forces are working with national government officials to
help farmers endure the harsh winter in this western Afghanistan
province bordering Iran.
The winter has been especially harsh. Severe snow and ice storms
have made it nearly impossible for villagers to travel to nearby
cities to purchase supplies of food and fuel.
Recognizing the emergent need of Afghans, the combined team
launched an effort to help farmers and their animals. A team of
veterinarian technicians and civil affairs specialists accompanied
Afghan and coalition forces to the Shib Koh district center to talk
with farmers and provide veterinary training Feb 5.
Haji Abdul Rahim, the Shib Koh district manager, explained that
livestock is important to the local economy and villagers' quality
of life. "They make their living off the animals," Rahim said.
The veterinarian technician explained how farmers can identify
livestock illnesses, eradicate worm infestations, and stop the
spread of disease within a herd. The team also provided veterinary
supplies for the ranchers to treat their animals. Rahim said the
more than 50 elders who attended the class were very pleased with
the visit.
"I believe it went better than expected," a civil affairs team
leader said. "Capacity building and development is better than just
treating animals."
Rahim said the Shib Koh district is free of poppy cultivation
and is a secure place to live and work; however, life in the rural
district is hard. Village elders would like to see more projects to
improve their economic situation.
"We want this district to be an example to others," a village
elder said. Other elders reiterated his sentiments.
With so much of their economy centering on the health of their
livestock, projects like this one go a long way toward ensuring
financial security for the farmers and quality of life for
residents of Shib Koh district and Farah province.
"The government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan wants to
ensure a secure environment so residents can build a stable
economy," said Army Capt. Vanessa R. Bowman, a coalition
spokeswoman.
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