From idle land to a thriving vegetable field, one farmer redefines self-reliance during COVID-19
During the COVID-19 pandemic, when most people were stuck indoors and unable to work, a farmer in Khormal District near Halabja province turned an unused plot of land into a thriving green field—and now dreams of expanding to major cities.
Fereydoun Ghafar, an exemplary farmer in Khormal District, shared his journey with The Kurdish Globe: “When COVID-19 pandemic started, we were not allowed to go out and work. I had a canal on my land, and I thought—why not start something that no one can stop me from doing? I began preparing the land and turned it into a vegetable field. Now I’ve planted cilantro and mint, and I take fresh produce to the market every day. That’s how I earn my living.”
He added: “Every 10 days, it’s time to harvest the cilantro and vegetables, and I prepare them for sale. I’ve even considered putting up a net to protect the plants from getting washed away by excess water. Since the base of these vegetables is their roots, the net helps them stay firm and safe.”
Fereydoun emphasized that he does not use chemicals or pesticides on his crops—making them healthier, more aromatic, and highly sought after in the local market. “I tried to build a small pool using water from the canal on my land to support continuous irrigation. Every morning from 7 to 8, I prepare a batch for the market, and again in the evening from 5 to 6, I take another batch.”
He also shared a broader message: “What’s important is that this idea should be encouraged so people stop relying on government salaries and become owners of their own businesses. I’m also working to expand the project so that my vegetables can be sold in major cities.”
The Kurdish Globe