Milk factory faces challenges - 20th January 2021

This is the Milko dairy in Afghanistan's Kandahar province, set up by local entrepreneur Ghami Mia. Situated in southern Afghanistan, the company supplies some of the most dangerous towns in the region, towns surrounded by Taliban territory.

As a result, Ghami Mia has had to tread carefully between the Taliban and government officials. People from both sides want a share of his success. Mia reports he’s obliged to make tax payments to both groups. It’s not uncommon for the government to remove dairy products as further payment.

With in excess of 300 different products, Milko’s range includes flavoured milk drinks and ice creams that are in high demand across the region. Although the company farms its own 250 head dairy herd, it is also reliant on local farmers, who queue up to drop off their fresh milk at Milko. This is undoubtedly a welcome economic opportunity for them.

At war for most of the last 40 years and ranked among the world’s most corrupt countries, security in Afghanistan is a constant cause of concern. Although increasing hostilities between government and Taliban forces in recent months could lead Milko to close, Mia is reluctant to let farmers down.

Peace talks between the two parties, scheduled to start this week, offer the prospect of a way forward.