Helmand Province

Helmand (Pashto/Dari: هلمند) is one of the 34 provinces of Afghanistan. It is in the southwest of the country. Its capital is Lashkar Gah. The Helmand River flows through the mainly desert region, providing water for irrigation.

Helmand is the world's largest opium-producing region.  It makes 75% of the world's total production. This is more than all of Burma, which is the second largest producing nation after Afghanistan. Afghan opium accounts for more than 90% of the global supply.

The current governor is Mohammad Golab Mangal (since March 2008).

Much of the fighting between NATO and Taliban forces is taking place in this province. Helmand is said to be a Taliban stronghold.

Border with Pakistan
Helmand has a southern border with the Balochistan province of Pakistan. Many domestic and international observers have criticized Pakistan's efforts towards securing the border against Taliban insurgents.

Cities
Lashkar Gah
Sangin
Musa Qala

Demographics
The population is 1,441,769. The area is 58,584 square kilometres. Pashtuns are the majority estimated at 92% of the population.Helmand Executive Summary, nps.edu There are also Balochs who are in the south.  Also there are small numbers of Hazara, Brahui and Tajik.NPS.edu 

Districts
 Districts of Helmand ProvinceDistrictCapitalPopulationAreaAfghanistan Geographic & Thematic LayersNotesBaghran   129,947   Dishu   29,005   Garmsir   107,153   Nahri Saraj   166,827   also known as Nahre SarajKajaki   119,023   Khanashin (Reg)   17,333   Lashkargah   201,546   Musa Qala  Musa Qala  138,896   Nad Ali   235,590   Nawa-I-Barakzayi   89,814   Nawzad   108,258   Sangin  Sangin  213,901   Washir   31,476   

References