FAO Digital Media Hub - AFGHANISTAN 2025. Women of Bamyan: a backbone of livestock family farming

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AFGHANISTAN 2025. Women of Bamyan: a backbone of livestock family farming

07 August 2025. Bamyan province, Afghanistan.

Zahra is a female livestock keeper from Bamyan. She and her children drinking cow milk and eating other dairy products on breakfast.

08/07/2025

Country or Territory Afghanistan

Project ID OSRO/AFG/129/ASB

File size 34.18 MB

Unique ID UF1B3L5

Editorial use only. Photo credit must be given. For further information contact: Photo-Library@fao.org or digital-media-hub@fao.org

Background Information In the heart of rural Bamyan, livestock farming is not just a means of livelihood, it’s a way of life that nourishes families and strengthens communities. 47-year-old Ms. Zahra, daughter of Ali Akbar, embodies this spirit as an active female beneficiary of Project 129/ASB in Pay-e-Kotal Foladi village.
With her commitment and hard work, Zahra raises sheep, goats, and cattle, transforming her small farm into a bustling hub of activity. As a proud member of the Livestock Female Farmer Field School (FFS) group, she has gained invaluable knowledge and resources. Her dairy kit includes 200 kg of concentrated animal feed, essential deworming treatments, and vaccines for her animals (LSD, PPR, and FMD), ensuring they thrive.

From the milk produced by her livestock, Zahra crafts a delightful array of dairy products; yogurt, butter milk (dough), butter, cheese, and dry yogurt (quroot) each one a testament to her skill and dedication. These nutritious offerings not only nourish her family but also provide an additional income stream when sold at the local market.
With her hard-earned income, Zahra passionately invests in her children’s education, buying notebooks, books, pens, and pencils to help them reach for their dreams. The joy she finds in livestock farming shines through in every aspect of her work, and she envisions expanding her efforts, inspiring other women in her village to tap into the possibilities of sustainable farming. However, she faces a significant challenge: the persistent drought has affected the availability of fodder for her livestock as winter approaches.

Zahra's journey reflects the vibrant possibilities of village farming, where hard work, community support, and a passion for growth can lead to a brighter future for all.