Abdul Rahman Habib, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Economy, emphasized the crucial role of women in Afghanistan’s economic growth.
Speaking to TOLOnews, the ministry’s spokesperson stated that currently 26,000 women are employed in the public sector, while another 250,000 women are engaged informally in various economic activities across the country.
Habib said: “At present, around 26,000 women are working in different public sector offices. Additionally, licenses have been issued to 10,000 women entrepreneurs, and nearly 250,000 women are involved in small businesses, handicrafts, and production on an informal basis.”
Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, also affirmed: “The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has always supported women entrepreneurs and continues to do so in all aspects of industry and trade.”
Shirin, one of the women entrepreneurs, established a sewing workshop to support herself financially and create job opportunities for other girls. She told TOLOnews that she started her business with a small amount of money, and now her capital has grown to over 300,000 afghani.
Shirin Arwin shared her experience: “I started this class with just 500 afghani. Today, we have more than 300,000 to 400,000 afghani in capital. Initially, we set up this class at home, and later expanded it outside to other locations.”
Another woman entrepreneur, Sediqa, highlighted the importance of women in economic development: “Women are half of society. Those who engage in business not only support their families but also contribute to the national economy.”
Several other women entrepreneurs running small businesses have called for more support from the Islamic Emirate.
Najiba, a businesswoman, stated: “The more positive impact my work has on my family and friends, the greater the effect on the government and society. This, in turn, helps reduce poverty.”
Since the Islamic Emirate’s return to power, many women and girls have launched small businesses in different sectors to sustain their livelihoods.
