Where do Pashtun communities traditionally live in Afghanistan?

The traditional homeland of the Pashtun in Afghanistan is located in the area east, south, and southwest of Kabul. While this region serves as their primary historical base, Pashtun communities are also well represented in the north and west of the country.1

Within these regions, specific tribal groups occupy distinct territories:
* Durrānī: These Pashtun primarily reside in the area surrounding the city of Kandahār.21
* Ghilzay: This group traditionally inhabits the region situated between Kabul and Kandahār.21

Although many Pashtun are sedentary farmers, some are nomadic herders who historically moved between seasonal pastures. Following the formation of the modern Afghan state in the late 19th century, many Pashtun also migrated to northern Afghanistan. Today, important cultural centers for the Pashtun include the cities of Kandahār, Jalālābād, and Lashkar Gāh.23