But in 1979 war broke out and the country did not find peace for over 20 years. During the Taliban rule from 1996 to 2001, the highlands became the main scene of hostilities. The agricultural infrastructure was destroyed and a large part of the population had to flee.
So too did 51-year-old Haji Hamidullah, who found shelter with his wife and four daughters in the capital Kabul. Like many of the refugees, the family returned in 2004 and began planting grapes again.
But the starting situation for production is difficult. For example, the production of light raisins would require clay huts to protect the drying grapes from direct sun. But the smallholders hesitate: the situation is too uncertain to invest a lot of money.
Haji Hamidullah nevertheless believes in the economic future of the region. As president of the raisin growers' cooperative founded in 2009, he is convinced that fair trade is the best option for the producers. It generates the highest raisin prices and guarantees the farming families the purchase of the harvest.
Now you can buy the raisins from Haji Hamidullah’s cooperative from us. The grapes have a pronounced fruity aroma and taste excellent. Bet they will soon be regarded as the best in the world again?