Afghanistan is a landlocked country in South Asia, bordered by Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China. With a history that spans thousands of years, Afghanistan has been the center of ancient trade routes, empires, and invasions. Today, it is a nation facing numerous challenges, including political instability, ongoing conflict, poverty, and a struggling economy. Despite these challenges, Afghanistan is a country of great cultural significance and natural beauty, with a rich heritage of art, music, and literature. The Afghan people are known for their resilience and hospitality, and visitors to the country are often struck by the warmth and generosity of its people.
About
Afghanistan is a landlocked country located at the crossroads of Central Asia and South Asia. It is bordered by Pakistan to the east and south, Iran to the west, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan to the north, and China to the northeast and east. The country covers an area of 652,864 square kilometers and is predominantly mountainous, with plains in the north and southwest, separated by the Hindu Kush mountain range. Its capital city is Kabul, and the country has a population of around 40.2 million, consisting of various ethnic groups.
The region that is now Afghanistan has a long and rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Middle Paleolithic era. The country’s strategic location along the historic Silk Road has made it a center of trade and commerce throughout history. Afghanistan has also been home to various peoples and has witnessed numerous military campaigns, including those by the Persians, Alexander the Great, the Maurya Empire, Arab Muslims, the Mongols, the British, the Soviet Union, and most recently by a US-led coalition.
The modern state of Afghanistan began with the Durrani dynasty in the 18th century, and the country was divided into multiple smaller independent kingdoms following its decline. Afghanistan would be reunited in the 19th century after seven decades of civil war, with wars of unification led by Dost Mohammad Khan. During this time, Afghanistan became a buffer state in the Great Game between the British Empire and the Russian Empire. Afghanistan emerged as an independent kingdom in June 1926, which lasted almost half a century until the Republic of Afghanistan was established.
Since the late 1970s, Afghanistan’s history has been dominated by extensive warfare, including coups, invasions, insurgencies, and civil wars. The conflict began in 1978 when a communist revolution established a socialist state, and subsequent infighting prompted the Soviet Union to invade Afghanistan in 1979. Mujahideen fought against the Soviets in the Soviet–Afghan War and continued fighting amongst themselves following the Soviets’ withdrawal in 1989. The Islamic fundamentalist Taliban controlled most of the country by 1996, but their Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan received little international recognition before its overthrow in the 2001 US invasion of Afghanistan. The Taliban returned to power in 2021 after capturing Kabul and overthrowing the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, thus bringing an end to the 2001–2021 war.
Despite its rich natural resources, including lithium, iron, zinc, and copper, Afghanistan has struggled with poverty and high levels of terrorism in recent decades. The country is also the world’s largest producer of opium, second-largest producer of cannabis, and third-largest of both saffron and cashmere. Afghanistan’s economy is the world’s 96th-largest, with a GDP of $72.9 billion by purchasing power parity, but it remains among the world’s least developed countries, ranking 180th in the Human Development Index, with a per capita GDP ranking of 169th out of 186 countries as of 2018.
Name and etymology
The name “Afghanistan” is believed to derive from the ancient Sanskrit term “Avagana,” which means “land of the Afghans.” The term “Afghan” itself is thought to have originated from the Pashto word “Afghana,” which means “tribe” or “people.” The Pashtuns are the largest ethnic group in Afghanistan and have played a significant role in the country’s history and culture.
The region now known as Afghanistan has been inhabited for thousands of years by various tribes and empires, including the Persians, Greeks, and Mongols. It was formally established as a country in 1747 by Ahmad Shah Durrani, who founded the Durrani Empire and named the region “Afghanistan.”
Over the centuries, Afghanistan has been influenced by various cultures and religions, including Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Sikhism. Its strategic location at the crossroads of Central Asia, the Middle East, and South Asia has made it a coveted prize for conquerors and a center of trade and commerce. However, this has also made it vulnerable to external interference and internal conflict.
Today, Afghanistan remains a complex and challenging country, with ongoing political instability, conflict, and social issues. However, it also has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, including its music, art, and literature, which continue to be celebrated both within the country and around the world.
History
Afghanistan has a long and complex history, shaped by its strategic location at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
The region has been inhabited by various peoples and empires throughout history, including the Indus Valley Civilization, the Achaemenid Empire, Alexander the Great’s Macedonian Empire, the Maurya Empire, the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom, and the Kushan Empire.
In the 7th century, Islam spread to the region, and it became part of the Islamic Caliphate. In the 10th century, the region was ruled by the Samanid Empire, which was followed by the Ghaznavid Empire and the Ghurid Empire.
In the 13th century, Afghanistan was invaded by Genghis Khan and the Mongols, who ruled the region until the 14th century. The Timurid Empire then took control of the region, followed by the Mughal Empire in the 16th century.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Afghanistan was ruled by various Pashtun dynasties, including the Durrani Empire, which was founded by Ahmad Shah Durrani in 1747. The British Empire also played a significant role in the region during this time, as they fought several wars with Afghanistan and established indirect rule over the country.
In 20th century, Afghanistan gained independence from British rule in 1919, but political instability and conflict persisted. In 1979, the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan, triggering a decade-long conflict known as the Soviet-Afghan War. This conflict led to the rise of various armed groups, including the Taliban, who took control of the country in 1996.
Following the September 11 attacks in 2001, the United States launched a military campaign in Afghanistan to remove the Taliban from power and to eliminate Al-Qaeda, who were believed to be operating in the country. The conflict continues to this day, with ongoing violence and political instability in the region.
In the 19th century, Afghanistan was caught in the middle of the “Great Game” between the British Empire in India and the Russian Empire, leading to a series of conflicts and interventions. The country briefly became a monarchy in 1926 under King Amanullah Khan, who attempted to modernize and secularize Afghanistan, but his efforts were met with resistance and eventually led to his overthrow in 1929.
After a period of political instability and multiple coups, Afghanistan experienced a communist revolution in 1978, which triggered the Soviet invasion in 1979. The ensuing Soviet-Afghan War lasted for a decade and caused immense human suffering and destruction, leading to the rise of the Taliban in the 1990s.
The Taliban seized control of most of Afghanistan by 1996, imposing a strict interpretation of Islamic law and harboring extremist groups such as Al-Qaeda. The 9/11 attacks in 2001 prompted a US-led coalition to invade Afghanistan and topple the Taliban regime, marking the start of the War in Afghanistan.
Despite initial success, the conflict has been ongoing for over two decades, with the Taliban regaining control of large parts of the country in recent years. The withdrawal of US troops in 2021 has led to renewed fighting and uncertainty about the future of Afghanistan.
Government and politics
Afghanistan is a presidential representative democratic republic, with the President of Afghanistan serving as the head of state and government. The president is elected through a direct vote by the people for a term of five years.
The government of Afghanistan is divided into three branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The executive branch consists of the President, Vice Presidents, and the Cabinet. The legislative branch is composed of the National Assembly, which is further divided into the House of the People (Wolesi Jirga) and the House of Elders (Meshrano Jirga). The judicial branch is independent and includes the Supreme Court, High Courts, and Appeals Courts.
The political landscape in Afghanistan is complex, with a history of tribalism and regionalism influencing politics. Political parties exist, but they do not hold much power or influence. Instead, many politicians align themselves with powerful individuals or factions based on ethnic, tribal, or regional affiliations.
The Taliban, an Islamic fundamentalist group, controlled Afghanistan from 1996 until 2001, when they were removed from power by a US-led coalition following the September 11 attacks. However, the Taliban regained control of the country in August 2021, following the withdrawal of US and NATO forces from the country.
The Taliban’s political ideology is based on a strict interpretation of Islamic law, or Sharia. They have promised to establish an Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and have already begun implementing their vision of governance, which includes imposing strict social and cultural norms and restricting women’s rights. The Taliban’s return to power has been met with international condemnation and concerns about human rights abuses.
In recent years, Afghanistan has struggled to maintain a stable government and political system. The country has experienced numerous changes in leadership and governance structures, including the establishment of a democratic government in 2001 after the fall of the Taliban regime.
Currently, the government of Afghanistan is a presidential Islamic republic with a bicameral legislature. The president serves as the head of state and government and is elected by popular vote for a term of five years. The National Assembly, consisting of the House of the People (Wolesi Jirga) and the House of Elders (Meshrano Jirga), serves as the legislative branch.
Despite the existence of a democratic system, Afghanistan faces ongoing challenges with corruption, political instability, and insecurity. The country has also struggled with widespread poverty and economic underdevelopment, leading to social unrest and political dissatisfaction.
In addition to these challenges, Afghanistan has faced ongoing conflict and violence from various armed groups, including the Taliban and ISIS. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement of communities, further exacerbating the country’s already challenging political and economic situation.
Economy
Afghanistan is one of the poorest countries in the world, with a largely agricultural economy. The country’s economy has been severely impacted by decades of conflict and instability, which have hindered economic growth and development. Additionally, Afghanistan faces many challenges such as a lack of infrastructure, limited access to capital, weak governance, and corruption.
The agricultural sector is the largest employer in Afghanistan, providing jobs for around 80% of the population. The main crops include wheat, maize, rice, fruits, and vegetables, with opium poppy being another significant crop. Afghanistan is the world’s largest producer of opium, which is used to make heroin.
In recent years, the mining sector has emerged as a potential source of revenue for the country. Afghanistan is rich in natural resources, including copper, iron ore, precious and semi-precious stones, oil, and natural gas. However, the country lacks the infrastructure and investment needed to fully exploit these resources.
International aid has been a significant source of funding for the Afghan economy, with billions of dollars in aid pledged by donor countries. The Afghan government has also pursued economic reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment and creating a more business-friendly environment. However, progress has been slow, and the economy remains heavily dependent on foreign aid.
The ongoing conflict in Afghanistan has further worsened the economic situation, with many businesses forced to close and people struggling to make ends meet. The country’s future economic development is highly dependent on the restoration of peace and stability, as well as significant investment in infrastructure and human capital.
In addition to agriculture and natural resources, Afghanistan has potential in the mining sector, with significant deposits of precious and semi-precious stones, copper, iron ore, and other minerals. However, the country has faced challenges in developing this sector due to security issues, lack of infrastructure, and limited expertise.
Despite these challenges, Afghanistan has made progress in economic development in recent years. In 2019, the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) was estimated at $22.7 billion, with an annual growth rate of 2.9%. Agriculture continues to be the main source of employment and income for the majority of the population, accounting for over 40% of GDP. However, the services sector has been growing in recent years, driven by telecommunications, construction, and transport.
In terms of trade, Afghanistan has historically relied heavily on imports, particularly food and fuel. The country’s major exports include carpets, dried fruits, and precious stones, but these industries face challenges such as lack of access to international markets and limited infrastructure for transportation and storage.
Overall, the Afghan economy remains fragile and heavily reliant on international aid. However, with ongoing efforts to improve security, infrastructure, and governance, there is potential for further economic growth and development in the coming years.
Geography
Afghanistan is a landlocked country located in South Asia, bordered by Pakistan to the east and south, Iran to the west, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan to the north, and China to the northeast. The country is known for its rugged mountainous terrain, with the Hindu Kush mountain range running through the central part of the country.
Afghanistan has a diverse landscape, with high mountains, plains, and deserts. The highest peak in the country is Noshaq, which stands at 7,492 meters (24,580 feet) above sea level. The Amu Darya and Helmand rivers are the two major rivers that flow through Afghanistan.
The climate in Afghanistan is generally arid to semi-arid, with hot summers and cold winters. The country experiences a wide range of temperatures depending on the location and altitude. Kabul, the capital city, has an average temperature of 12°C (54°F) in January and 27°C (81°F) in July.
Natural resources in Afghanistan include copper, iron ore, gold, silver, and precious stones. The country also has significant deposits of natural gas and petroleum. However, the exploitation of these resources has been hindered by years of conflict and instability.
Transport
Afghanistan has a relatively underdeveloped transportation system, with most of the roads being unpaved and poorly maintained. The country’s rugged terrain and lack of infrastructure have also made it difficult to establish efficient transportation networks. However, in recent years, there have been some efforts to improve the transportation system.
The major highways in Afghanistan include the Kabul-Kandahar Highway, which is the country’s most important road, connecting the capital city of Kabul to the southern city of Kandahar. Other major highways include the Kabul-Jalalabad Highway, which connects Kabul to the eastern city of Jalalabad, and the Herat-Kandahar Highway, which connects the western city of Herat to Kandahar.
The country also has a limited railway network, with the most important line being the Hairatan to Mazar-i-Sharif railway, which connects Afghanistan to Uzbekistan. There are also plans to extend the railway network to other parts of the country.
Air transportation is the most efficient way to travel long distances within Afghanistan, with Kabul International Airport being the country’s main airport. The airport offers both domestic and international flights, with direct flights to several regional and international destinations.
In addition, there are a few smaller airports in other parts of the country, including Kandahar International Airport, Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport, and Herat International Airport. However, many of these airports have limited facilities and are not always reliable.
Overall, the transportation system in Afghanistan still faces significant challenges, but efforts are being made to improve it and increase connectivity within the country and with neighboring countries.
Industry Sectors
Afghanistan’s economy is primarily based on agriculture and natural resources, with the mining sector being a major contributor to the country’s GDP. Other significant industries include manufacturing, construction, and services.
Agriculture remains the backbone of Afghanistan’s economy, employing over 60% of the country’s labor force. The country is known for producing high-quality fruits, such as pomegranates, apricots, grapes, and melons, as well as nuts like pistachios and almonds. Afghanistan is also one of the largest producers of saffron in the world.
The mining sector has been identified as a potential key driver of economic growth, with Afghanistan being rich in natural resources such as copper, iron ore, gold, lithium, and rare earth metals. However, the sector has been plagued by challenges such as insecurity, lack of infrastructure, and corruption.
Manufacturing is another important industry in Afghanistan, with the production of textiles, carpets, and furniture being major contributors to the sector. The country’s construction industry has also grown significantly in recent years, driven by the demand for infrastructure development and reconstruction projects.
The services sector, particularly telecommunications and financial services, has also experienced significant growth in recent years, contributing to the country’s economic development. However, the sector remains underdeveloped compared to other countries in the region.
Overall, Afghanistan’s economy faces significant challenges, including political instability, insecurity, and a lack of infrastructure. Despite these challenges, the country has shown resilience in recent years, with steady economic growth and a young and dynamic population offering potential for future development.
Demographics
Afghanistan has an estimated population of around 39 million people, with the majority living in rural areas. The country is ethnically diverse, with Pashtuns being the largest ethnic group, followed by Tajiks, Hazaras, Uzbeks, and others.
Dari and Pashto are the official languages of Afghanistan, with many other languages also spoken by various ethnic groups. Islam is the predominant religion, with over 99% of the population being Muslim.
The country has a young population, with over 60% under the age of 25. However, due to ongoing conflict and lack of economic opportunities, many young Afghans have migrated to other countries as refugees.
Afghanistan has one of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the world, and access to healthcare is limited in many parts of the country. Education is also a challenge, with many children, particularly girls, unable to attend school due to poverty, cultural barriers, and security concerns.
Overall, Afghanistan faces many demographic challenges, including a high fertility rate, rapid urbanization, and a large youth population with limited opportunities for employment and education.
Education
Afghanistan’s education system has faced significant challenges due to decades of conflict and instability. During the Taliban regime, education for girls was banned, and many schools were destroyed. Since the overthrow of the Taliban in 2001, significant efforts have been made to rebuild the education system, but many challenges still remain.
Primary education is free and compulsory for all children in Afghanistan, although attendance rates are low in some areas due to factors such as poverty, lack of infrastructure, and cultural norms. Secondary education is also available but is not compulsory, and many students do not continue their education beyond primary school.
There are several universities in Afghanistan, including Kabul University, which was founded in 1931. Other universities include Herat University, Balkh University, and Kandahar University. However, many universities in Afghanistan have limited resources and struggle to provide quality education due to ongoing conflict and political instability.
The literacy rate in Afghanistan is relatively low, with an estimated 43% of the population over the age of 15 able to read and write. This rate is even lower among women, with only about 22% of women over the age of 15 being literate.
Despite the challenges, education is seen as a key factor in Afghanistan’s development and is a focus of national and international efforts to improve the country’s social and economic situation.
Healthcare
The healthcare system in Afghanistan has faced many challenges over the years, including ongoing conflict and political instability. As a result, the country has one of the lowest life expectancies and highest infant mortality rates in the world.
The Ministry of Public Health is responsible for overseeing the healthcare system in Afghanistan. However, due to the country’s limited resources, many areas lack basic healthcare infrastructure and access to medical services. In addition, many healthcare professionals have fled the country due to security concerns.
Despite these challenges, the government and international organizations have made efforts to improve healthcare in Afghanistan. The Basic Package of Health Services (BPHS) was introduced in 2003, which provides basic healthcare services to the population. The BPHS has been expanded to cover more areas and now includes services such as vaccinations, prenatal care, and treatment for common diseases.
In addition, international aid has been provided to support healthcare in Afghanistan. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other organizations have implemented programs to combat infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, and HIV/AIDS. Maternal and child health programs have also been established to reduce the high rates of maternal and infant mortality.
Despite these efforts, much remains to be done to improve the healthcare system in Afghanistan. More resources are needed to build and maintain healthcare infrastructure and to train and retain healthcare professionals. Ongoing conflict and political instability also pose challenges to the delivery of healthcare services.
Culture
Afghanistan is known for its rich and diverse cultural heritage. The country’s long and storied history has resulted in a unique fusion of various influences from Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. The majority of the population is Muslim, and Islamic traditions and customs permeate many aspects of daily life.
Afghanistan has a strong tradition of oral storytelling, poetry, and music. These forms of expression have been used to pass down stories and history from generation to generation. Traditional instruments such as the rubab, sarod, and dhol are commonly used in Afghan music.
Afghanistan is also known for its beautiful handicrafts, including carpets, embroidery, and pottery. Many of these crafts are produced by women in rural areas and have been passed down through generations.
The country’s cuisine reflects its geography and cultural heritage. Afghan cuisine is a mix of flavors and spices from Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. Popular dishes include kebabs, rice dishes, soups, and stews. Tea is the most common beverage, and it is often served with sweets and pastries.
Sports such as cricket, football, and buzkashi (a traditional Afghan sport played on horseback) are popular in Afghanistan. The country has produced some world-renowned athletes, including several Olympic medalists.
Overall, Afghanistan’s culture is rich, vibrant, and diverse, reflecting the country’s long history and its unique position at the crossroads of several different regions and cultures.
Natural Resources
Afghanistan is rich in natural resources, including natural gas, oil, coal, copper, gold, and precious stones such as emeralds and lapis lazuli. However, the exploitation and management of these resources have been hampered by years of conflict, corruption, and lack of investment.
One of the most significant natural resources in Afghanistan is its mineral wealth. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), Afghanistan has significant deposits of copper, iron, gold, lithium, rare earth elements, and other minerals. Estimates suggest that these resources could be worth up to $3 trillion, making Afghanistan potentially one of the richest countries in the world in terms of mineral wealth.
In addition to its mineral wealth, Afghanistan is also home to vast agricultural land and water resources. The country’s fertile soils and favorable climate make it ideal for the production of fruits, vegetables, and other crops. However, decades of war and instability have severely impacted the agricultural sector, and many farmers struggle to access basic resources such as seeds, fertilizer, and water.
Finally, Afghanistan has significant hydropower potential, with many rivers and waterways flowing through the country. The government has identified several sites for hydropower development, and investments have been made to develop some of these sites. However, security concerns and political instability have hindered progress in this sector.
Environmental Issues
Afghanistan faces a range of environmental issues, including deforestation, soil degradation, water scarcity, and air pollution.
Deforestation is a significant problem in Afghanistan, with estimates suggesting that the country has lost over half of its forest cover in the past several decades due to logging, grazing, and agriculture. This loss of trees has contributed to soil erosion and desertification in some regions, which can exacerbate flooding and water scarcity.
Soil degradation is also a major concern in Afghanistan, with overgrazing, unsustainable agriculture practices, and other factors leading to the loss of topsoil and reduced fertility. This can have negative impacts on food security and agriculture productivity, as well as contribute to increased vulnerability to natural disasters.
Water scarcity is another pressing environmental issue in Afghanistan, with many regions of the country facing chronic shortages of clean water. This is due in part to climate change, as well as to overuse and mismanagement of water resources. The situation is particularly dire in urban areas, where rapid population growth has put significant strain on water supplies.
Finally, air pollution is a growing problem in many parts of Afghanistan, particularly in urban areas. Industrial activity, transportation emissions, and household fuel use all contribute to poor air quality, which can have negative impacts on public health and quality of life.
Human Rights
Afghanistan has been facing numerous human rights issues for many years. The country has been in a state of conflict and turmoil for decades, resulting in widespread violations of human rights. Some of the major human rights issues in Afghanistan include:
- Women’s rights: Women in Afghanistan have faced numerous challenges when it comes to their basic rights. The Taliban regime banned women from receiving education, working outside their homes, and accessing healthcare. Although there have been some improvements in women’s rights since the Taliban was removed from power, women still face discrimination and violence, particularly in areas controlled by the Taliban.
- Child labor: Child labor is a serious problem in Afghanistan, particularly in rural areas where poverty is high. Children are often forced to work long hours in hazardous conditions, and they miss out on their education and childhood.
- Freedom of speech and press: Journalists and media workers in Afghanistan face threats, intimidation, and violence from different actors, including the government, armed groups, and warlords. There have been numerous cases of journalists being killed or attacked in recent years.
- Ethnic and religious minorities: Afghanistan is a diverse country with many ethnic and religious minorities. Unfortunately, these minorities often face discrimination and persecution. The Hazara community, for instance, has been targeted by the Taliban and other extremist groups, resulting in numerous deaths and displacement.
- Torture and mistreatment: The use of torture and mistreatment of detainees by security forces and armed groups has been widespread in Afghanistan. There have been reports of detainees being subjected to beatings, electrocution, and other forms of abuse.
Despite these challenges, there have been some positive developments in Afghanistan in recent years. The Afghan government has taken steps to improve human rights, including the adoption of a new constitution and the establishment of human rights institutions. However, much more needs to be done to protect the rights of all Afghans and ensure that they live in a safe and secure environment.
Foods
Afghan cuisine is known for its rich flavors and variety of spices. Some of the most popular dishes include:
- Kabuli Pulao: A traditional dish made with rice, lamb, carrots, raisins, and nuts.
- Mantu: Steamed dumplings filled with spiced ground beef or lamb, served with a tomato-based sauce and yogurt.
- Ashak: Dumplings stuffed with leeks, served with a meat or vegetable sauce and topped with yogurt and dried mint.
- Kebabs: Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically lamb or chicken, served with rice and salad.
- Bolani: Flatbread stuffed with a variety of fillings, such as potatoes, spinach, or pumpkin.
- Qorma: A stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, often served with rice.
- Samosas: Fried or baked pastries filled with spiced potatoes, meat, or vegetables.
- Sheer yakh: A creamy, chilled dessert made with milk, sugar, and cardamom, often garnished with pistachios or almonds.
- Tea: A staple beverage in Afghan culture, often served with sugar and cardamom.
- Sherbet: A sweet, fruity drink made with syrup and water, often served at special occasions like weddings and celebrations.
Afghan cuisine is heavily influenced by its neighbors, including India, Iran, and Pakistan, as well as by the country’s geography and climate. The cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes, often featuring a variety of herbs and spices.
One of the most popular dishes in Afghanistan is kabuli palaw, a rice dish made with basmati rice, lamb, carrots, raisins, and a variety of spices, including cardamom and cumin. Another popular dish is mantu, a type of dumpling filled with ground beef or lamb, onions, and spices, served with a tomato-based sauce and a drizzle of yogurt.
Other Afghan dishes include kofta (meatballs), qorma (a stew made with meat and vegetables), and ashak (a type of stuffed pasta served with a tomato-based sauce and yogurt).
Bread is also an important part of Afghan cuisine, with naan being the most popular type. Naan is typically baked in a tandoor oven and served warm with a variety of dishes.
Tea is the most popular beverage in Afghanistan, often served with sugar and sometimes with cardamom or other spices. Qaymaq, a type of clotted cream, is sometimes added to tea to make it richer and creamier.
Overall, Afghan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and hearty dishes, reflecting the country’s history, culture, and geography.
Travel Destinations
Afghanistan has several travel destinations for tourists to visit, although the country’s security situation can be a concern. Some of the popular destinations include:
- Kabul: The capital city of Afghanistan is a mix of old and new with modern buildings and historic sites such as the Kabul Museum, Babur’s Gardens, and the Shah-Do Shamshira Mosque.
- Bamiyan: Located in central Afghanistan, the Bamiyan Valley is home to the famous Buddhas of Bamiyan, which were destroyed by the Taliban in 2001. The valley also has natural beauty with snow-capped mountains and green fields.
- Herat: Known as the ‘Pearl of Khorasan’, Herat is a historic city located in western Afghanistan. It has many attractions such as the Herat Citadel, the Great Mosque of Herat, and the Friday Mosque.
- Mazar-e-Sharif: The fourth-largest city in Afghanistan, Mazar-e-Sharif is home to the Blue Mosque, which is one of the most significant Islamic shrines in the world. It is also known for its vibrant bazaar and the Balkh Heritage Park.
- Panjshir Valley: Located north of Kabul, the Panjshir Valley is known for its natural beauty with lush green valleys, snow-capped peaks, and crystal-clear rivers. It is also a historical site as it was the stronghold of the Northern Alliance during the Taliban regime.
Afghanistan also offers trekking and mountaineering opportunities for adventure seekers, with the Hindu Kush mountain range offering some of the most challenging and scenic treks in the world.
Celebrities
Afghanistan has produced several notable individuals in the fields of literature, politics, sports, music, and entertainment. Some of the most famous Afghan celebrities include:
- Khaled Hosseini – an Afghan-American novelist, physician, and activist, best known for his bestselling novel “The Kite Runner.”
- Ahmad Zahir – a renowned Afghan singer who is often referred to as the “Elvis of Afghanistan.” He is known for his unique voice and fusion of Western and Eastern musical styles.
- Hamid Karzai – a former President of Afghanistan who served from 2001 to 2014. He is known for his efforts to rebuild the country after the Taliban regime was toppled.
- Ashraf Ghani – the current President of Afghanistan who assumed office in 2014. He has been credited with implementing several reforms and initiatives aimed at improving the country’s economy and security.
- Farkhunda Malikzada – a young Afghan woman who was brutally killed in 2015 after being falsely accused of burning a Quran. Her death sparked widespread protests and led to calls for greater protection of women’s rights in Afghanistan.
- Ahmad Shah Massoud – a prominent Afghan military commander who led the resistance against the Soviet invasion in the 1980s and the Taliban regime in the 1990s. He was assassinated in 2001, just two days before the 9/11 attacks.
- Robina Muqimyar – a young Afghan journalist who became the first female news anchor in the country in 2018. She has been praised for her courage and dedication to promoting freedom of speech and the press in Afghanistan.
These are just a few of the many talented and influential individuals who have emerged from Afghanistan, despite the challenges and turmoil that the country has faced in recent decades.
Newspapers
Afghanistan has a variety of newspapers that are published in different languages, including Dari, Pashto, and English. Some of the most popular newspapers in Afghanistan include:
- Daily Afghanistan: a leading daily newspaper published in Kabul in both Dari and English languages.
- Hasht-e Sobh Daily: a popular daily newspaper in Dari language with a focus on politics and social issues.
- 8 Sobh Daily: a daily newspaper in Dari language with a focus on news, politics, and social issues.
- Daily Outlook Afghanistan: a daily English language newspaper that covers national and international news.
- Mandegar Daily: a daily newspaper in Dari language that covers political, social, and cultural news.
- Afghanistan Times: a weekly English language newspaper published on Saturdays, focusing on news, politics, culture, and sports.
- Arman-e-Milli Daily: a daily newspaper in Dari language, which mainly focuses on political news.
- Etilaatroz Daily: a daily newspaper in Dari language, which mainly focuses on political and social news.
These newspapers provide a glimpse into the current events, politics, and cultural aspects of Afghanistan.
TV Channels
There are several TV channels in Afghanistan that operate in different languages, including Dari, Pashto, and English. Some of the popular TV channels in Afghanistan are:
- TOLO TV: It is a private TV channel that broadcasts news, entertainment, and drama programs in Dari and Pashto languages. TOLO TV is one of the most-watched channels in Afghanistan.
- Shamshad TV: This is another private TV channel in Afghanistan that broadcasts news, entertainment, and sports programs in Dari and Pashto languages.
- Ariana TV: It is a private TV channel that broadcasts news, entertainment, and music programs in Dari and Pashto languages.
- RTA: Radio Television Afghanistan is the state-owned TV channel in Afghanistan that broadcasts news, current affairs, and cultural programs in Pashto, Dari, and English languages.
- Lemar TV: It is a private TV channel that broadcasts news, entertainment, and drama programs in Dari and Pashto languages.
- Tolo News: It is a 24-hour news channel in Afghanistan that broadcasts news and current affairs programs in Dari and Pashto languages.
- 1TV: It is a private TV channel that broadcasts news, entertainment, and drama programs in Dari and Pashto languages.
These are some of the popular TV channels in Afghanistan that cater to different audiences and interests.
Radio
Afghanistan has a diverse radio landscape with many different stations serving various regions and communities. Radio stations in Afghanistan broadcast in a variety of languages, including Pashto, Dari, Uzbek, Turkmen, Balochi, and others.
Some of the most popular radio stations in Afghanistan include Radio Afghanistan, Ariana FM, Arman FM, and Tolo FM. Radio Afghanistan is a state-run broadcaster that has been on the air for over 90 years and provides news, music, and cultural programming in a variety of languages. Ariana FM and Arman FM are private broadcasters that offer news, music, and entertainment programming, while Tolo FM is known for its news and current affairs programming.
In addition to these major radio stations, there are also numerous community radio stations that serve specific regions and communities. These stations are often operated by local NGOs and provide news, information, and entertainment in local languages. Some examples of community radio stations in Afghanistan include Radio Bamyan, Radio Sahar, and Radio Killid.
Overall, radio remains an important source of news and information in Afghanistan, particularly in rural areas where access to television and the internet is limited.