ŞÊRÎN ELÎ

Shehba- Although the most important reason for the crisis in agriculture in NE Syria is the lack of rain, there are different factors affecting the farmers in the region. The embargo imposed on Shehba by the Syrian regime also affects farmers. We spoke to Nisrin Mihemed, administrator of the Agriculture Committee in the Afrin region about the situation of farmers in the region.

Drought, embargo, and siege

Emphasizing that the embargo imposed on the region by the Syrian regime affects farming, Nisrin Mihemed said, “In addition to the drought, farmers face difficulties in finding fuel oil. Even if they find fuel oil, its price is very high. Most farmers have quit farming because they sold onions and garlic at a loss last year. We want to support and help farmers; however, the ongoing embargo prevents us from helping them.”

They try to meet the needs of the people

 Underlining that the production of crops has decreased this year, Nisrin Mihemed said, “Unemployment has risen due to limited job opportunities in Shehba. We have started projects to provide employment for people in agriculture to decrease the unemployment rate. The economic production has declined by 50% due to the siege and embargo. We try to meet the needs of the people under siege and embargo.”