Thanks to the Japanese and Korean governments for their support.

Our work to tackle malnutrition in Afghanistan by developing a self sustainable soy industry was recognized by the Governments of Japan and Korea where soybeans have been grown and consumed for over a millennium.

The Japanese government simultaneously provided funding to test the soybean varieties donated by the Korean government, helped NEI distribute soybean seeds to first time farmers in five provinces, and provided education in the home use of soybeans for pregnant and lactating women in the areas.

For the test trials, NEI invited research agronomists from 10 agricultural research stations of the Ministry of Agriculture. We provided training on soybean production and experimentation and also the health benefits and home use of soybeans so that they could provide technical assistance to farmers in their own provinces.

To promote soybean production among farmers, other nongovernmental organizations, which are actively supporting agricultural development in Afghanistan, have joined our efforts. Agronomists from the Aga Khan Foundation, Shelter for Life, and Concerns Worldwide were trained by NEI to plant soybeans through their own organizations. FAO (Afghanistan) has also received soybean seeds from NEI for their farmers.