The main objective of this project was to produce pine nuts (Chalghoza) saplings 30,000 by the project with community engagement and will be transplanted by the community to the deforested areas. This initiative will on the one hand contribute to cultivating pine Nuts forests and on the other hand, it will contribute to environmental pollution reduction and will strengthen the economic condition of the local community in the project area in coming years.

Throughout the reporting period, AWARD has implemented a number of activities including the identification and selection of 4000 Sq. meters land for the plantation of nursery, leveling the exact land for nursery establishment, Preparing the required raw materials and protection of nursery, 34000 PC/ plastic pots filling, cultivation of seeds, its daily look after, organizing provincial level networking forum meeting in Paktia, Establishment of Pine Nuts forest protection committees in SAMKANI district, Establishment of district level advocacy committees in SAMKANI district, Community Awareness Raising Session on importance of forest and pine nuts & its value to local communities in the targeted districts.

A total of 34000 cultivated Pine Nuts seeds is been growing up, a provincial/district level networking forum meeting consisting of 150 people organized, and a total of 150 People (Men/Women) have received awareness raising on forestation, pine nuts, and its value and a district level advocacy committee consist of 15 individuals has successfully established, during the specific period.
Annex E (continued)

Intermediat Benefits:

Economic Opportunities: The direct benefits for the communities of Paktya Province that will become involved in pine nut harvesting and its protection is that harvesting pine nuts can provide employment and income-generating opportunities soon, because in the targeted region pine nut production is a significant industry. And can contribute to the local economy and improve the livelihoods of individuals and communities.

Cultural Significance: In certain targeted regions, pine nuts hold cultural and traditional importance. The immediate benefit for participants and recipient communities can be the preservation and celebration of their cultural heritage through the cultivation, harvesting, and consumption of pine nuts. This can foster a sense of pride, identity, and community cohesion.

Environmental Stewardship: Pine nut harvesting and cultivation in targeted regions can promote sustainable land management practices. Participants and recipient communities involved in responsible pine nut production may experience immediate benefits in terms of environmental conservation and preservation of forest ecosystems. This can include promoting biodiversity, preventing deforestation, and maintaining the ecological balance of the area.

Alternative Income Sources: Pine nuts can provide an alternative or supplementary income source for communities that rely on agriculture or other seasonal activities. The availability of pine nuts during specific seasons can diversify income streams and provide economic stability during times when other sources of income might be limited.


Describe the long-term environment and socio-economic benefits that were achieved by the project:
The long-term environment and socio-economic benefits which will be achieved by this pine nut project are significant. Here are some of its potential outcomes:

Nutritional Value: Pine nuts are a good source of various nutrients, including healthy fats, protein, vitamins (such as vitamin E), and minerals (such as magnesium and zinc). Consuming pine nuts can contribute to a well-rounded and nutritious diet, supporting overall health and well-being.
Culinary Uses: Pine nuts are highly valued for their unique flavor and texture, making them a popular ingredient in various cuisines. Participants and recipient communities of Paktya province will enjoy the immediate benefit of incorporating pine nuts into their meals, enhancing the taste and nutritional profile of dishes.

Environmental Conservation: Pine nut projects often involve sustainable practices such as responsible harvesting, reforestation efforts, and ecosystem preservation. Over the long term, these activities can contribute to the conservation of forest ecosystems, biodiversity, and the protection of natural habitats. By promoting sustainable land management practices, pine nut projects can help mitigate deforestation and promote environmental stewardship.

Economic Development: This Pine nut project can stimulate economic development at various levels of the community. They can create employment opportunities in harvesting, processing, and value-added activities such as packaging and distribution. The project can also support the growth of local businesses, such as cooperatives or small enterprises involved in pine nut processing and marketing. This can lead to increased income for individuals and communities, reducing poverty and enhancing socio-economic well-being.

Diversification of Income Sources: Mentioned Pine nut projects will provide an alternative income source for communities, particularly in areas of Paktya province where agriculture is the primary livelihood. By diversifying income streams, communities will become less dependent on a single source of income, making them more resilient to economic fluctuations and external shocks.

Community Empowerment and Social Cohesion: This pine nut project can empower local communities of Paktya province by involving them in decision-making processes, capacity building, and training programs. This can lead to increased self-reliance, improved skills, and enhanced knowledge of sustainable resource management. Furthermore, the project can foster social cohesion and strengthen community bonds through collective activities like harvesting, processing, and marketing.

Cultural Preservation: In regions of the paktya province where pine nuts hold cultural and traditional significance, the project will contribute to the preservation of local heritage and practices. By valuing and promoting the cultivation, harvesting, and consumption of pine nuts, the project can help maintain cultural identity and strengthen community pride.

Climate Change Mitigation: Pine nut trees are well-adapted to specific climatic conditions, and their cultivation can contribute to climate change mitigation efforts. Pine forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. By promoting the growth and preservation of pine nut forests, the project can help mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Knowledge and Skill Transfer: Pine nut projects often involve knowledge-sharing and capacity-building activities. Over the long term, this can lead to the transfer of valuable skills and expertise related to pine nut cultivation, harvesting techniques, processing, and marketing. The accumulation of knowledge within the community can have lasting benefits and contribute to sustainable practices for future generations.