Afghanistan has economic self-sustaining potential but how?
With over 65% of its population under 25, Afghanistan stands as one of the youngest countries globally. This demographic potential, however, is overshadowed by persistent challenges like violence, instability, and radicalisation. Afghanistan’s youthful energy could be a driving force for progress, but the country’s turbulent environment often hampers its potential.
The country is rich in mineral resources, boasting gold, copper, lithium, uranium, iron ore, cobalt, natural gas, and oil deposits. With over 1,400 known mineral occurrences, the country could reap significant benefits from tapping into these untapped resources, including chromium, lead, zinc, and precious stones such as lapis lazuli, ruby and emerald. These minerals, crucial for various industries globally, represent a goldmine for Afghanistan’s economy and can attract substantial foreign investment.
Afghanistan’s potential for energy independence is considerable, especially with its natural gas and petroleum reserves. The last two decades have seen a more detailed mapping of these resources, providing a clearer picture of the country’s energy prospects. On the other hand, renewable energy resources in Afghanistan, including solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, are abundant. Despite facing hurdles such as political instability and limited investment, these resources are crucial for sustainable and reliable electricity provision. Moving towards renewable energy is vital for Afghanistan’s energy security and economic development, given that the country currently relies heavily on electricity imports from Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.
Agriculture and animal farming are vital, contributing almost half of Afghanistan’s economy. Despite being predominantly pastoral with limited cultivable land, agriculture continues to be the foundation of Afghanistan’s economy. Nearly half of the cultivated land is irrigated, and about 85% of the population traditionally relied on the rural economy for their livelihood. If modernised and industrialised, this sector could transform the rural landscape, especially given that most of Afghanistan’s population resides in rural areas.
The country’s agricultural products, such as saffron, pomegranates, potatoes, grapes, and nuts, have shown promise as export commodities. Notably, Afghan saffron is renowned for being the highest quality in the world.
Tourism, too, holds potential with Afghanistan’s rich historical sites, stunning natural landscapes, and unique culture of hospitality. However, the current political climate, particularly with the Taliban’s control, severely restricts cultural expressions like music, dance, and New Year celebrations of Naw Ruz. This suppression hinders the development of a tourism sector that could otherwise attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.
Afghanistan’s historical identity is more traditional than strictly Islamic. However, decades of conflict and subsequent radicalisation have shifted the focus towards Islam, often with negative consequences on social and cultural dynamics.
Artisanship in Afghanistan is proof of its rich cultural heritage. Decorative arts like stonework, wood carving, jewellery, ceramics, and monumental paintings are widespread. Glassware art, particularly from Herat, leather goods from Kabul and Kandahar, and the ancient tradition of rug and carpet weaving are prominent examples. However, for these artisans to thrive, not only is investment necessary, but also sustainable export routes. The Taliban’s rule, unfortunately, poses significant challenges to realising these potentials.
While the prospects for success in these industries are promising, substantial obstacles remain. Political instability and human rights violations, especially under Taliban rule, significantly delay progress. Restrictions on women’s rights, including access to education, employment, and freedom of movement, are major concerns. Moreover, the growing influence of Islamic radicalisation complicates efforts to adopt a secular approach to key economic sectors like tourism and art, given the expansion of Madrasa education (religious school) by the Taliban.
Regional and global powers’ support is crucial for Afghanistan’s full potential. Such support is not only beneficial for potential global investors but also pivotal for establishing a secure and self-sufficient Afghanistan capable of combating global terrorism threats. Investing in education and the future of Afghanistan’s children is paramount, as the lack of education could leave the nation behind in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Without international cooperation and a focus on sustainable development, Afghanistan’s rich potential might remain unrealised, keeping it entangled in a cycle of instability and underdevelopment.
