A severe frost in April 2025, accompanied by a sudden drop in temperature below zero, caused significant damage in Malatya, considered Turkey's apricot capital.
Apricot orchards in many districts suffered serious damage, and small and medium-sized farm owners, in particular, faced a severe economic situation.
Modern.az reports that, following appeals from the region, the "Rahma Austria" Humanitarian Aid Association launched an aid campaign in Austria to support farmers. Within the framework of the campaign, 12,000 apricot saplings were obtained and handed over to farmers in 12 districts of Malatya.
The process was carried out with the joint cooperation of volunteers from Austria and local teams.
The farmers who received the saplings stated that this support was important for them both economically and morally after the significant losses they had experienced.
Local representatives of the Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry also participated in the events. Officials highly appreciated the cooperation with "Rahma Austria" and made the following statement:
“Such initiatives are of great importance for the revival of the region's agriculture. We thank every organization that stands by our farmers.”
Representatives of "Rahma Austria" stated that their goal was not only to distribute saplings but also to restore the production motivation of farmers in Malatya:
“After the frost, many producers lost hope. With this campaign, we wanted to show that we are with them both economically and psychologically. The survival of small farmers is very important for both the regional economy and the sustainability of natural product production.”
In addition to the saplings, volunteers also provided farmers with training on proper planting methods and orchard care. The program concluded with the message that similar support projects could be continued in future years.
Malatya farmers thanked "Rahma Austria", emphasizing that this solidarity initiative would play a critical role in the region's recovery.
