Afghani workshop workers in Spin Boldak are breaking apart discarded electronics in search of gold, despite the trade being risky and ultimately doomed due to modern electronics using cheaper metals. Soaring gold prices and easier acid access in recent years have sparked a small revival in the industry, but health risks remain. Without protective gear, workers dismantle electronics from Japan, Hong Kong, or Dubai. The gold is extracted from circuit boards, providing a monthly salary for workers.
In Kandahar city, goldsmiths melt down reclaimed gold from Spin Boldak, but the market is receiving less gold due to a decrease in Japanese electronics containing gold. The tradition of buying and selling gold remains strong in Afghanistan, with gold jewelry being an essential part of weddings. Jewelers cater to clients from both urban and rural areas, providing designs to suit everyone’s preferences. The tradition of owning jewelry acts as a safety net for families, allowing them to resell it in times of need.
Published in Dawn, September 5th, 2024
[ad_2]
Source link
