Abdul Rahman Habib, the spokesperson for Afghanistan’s Ministry of Economy, recently highlighted the vital role women play in the country’s economic development. According to the ministry, around 26,000 women are currently employed in the public sector, while an additional 250,000 women are engaged informally in various economic activities across the country.
Habib emphasized: “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, affirmed the ministry’s ongoing support for women entrepreneurs: “The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has always supported women entrepreneurs and continues to do so in all aspects of industry and trade.”
Shirin Arwin, one such entrepreneur, shared her success story of establishing a sewing workshop. She started with a small investment but has since grown her business, now valued at over 300,000 Afghanis. Shirin recalled: “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.”
Sediqa, another entrepreneur, emphasized the importance of women’s contributions to economic growth: “Women are half of society. Those who engage in business not only support their families but also contribute to the national economy.”
Several women entrepreneurs running small businesses have expressed the need 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 various sectors, demonstrating resilience and resourcefulness as they contribute to Afghanistan’s economy.
For updates and support for women entrepreneurs, the Ministry of Economy continues to encourage more participation and initiatives in boosting women’s economic roles.
