Purdue News

July 6, 2004

Ag economist helps identify potential Afghan businesses

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – A Purdue University professor back from Afghanistan says that country, despite continued reports of conflict, is making progress in establishing some small businesses and in taking steps to improve education.

Kevin McNamara, a professor of agricultural economics, has traveled to Afghanistan several times in the past two years, most recently as part of a U.S. Department of Agriculture funded program to identify value-added business enterprises that the Afghans could initiate.

Early efforts are geared toward developing firms that could produce agricultural products to compete in domestic markets. The Citizens Network for Foreign Affairs, the organization developing and implementing the program, is initially targeting supply chain storage for fresh fruits and vegetables, food processing (drying, canning and juicing), dairy, and wheat milling and baking. CNFA also is examining opportunities in flowers, carpets and silk.

"Currently their business trades are very small, but life is improving for the people, and private business is one of the sectors that seems to have the potential for additional funding and resources," McNamara said.

Afghan officials hope to hold national elections this fall. McNamara said there are reports that violence in the country may surge as the possible elections near and those in opposition try to derail the effort.

CONTACT: McNamara, (765) 494-4236, mcnamara@purdue.edu

Writer: Beth Forbes (765) 494-2722, forbes@purdue.edu