KABUL (SW) – United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Afghanistan announced that in the past year, the employment rate among women in Afghanistan has decreased by 50%, now standing at just 6%.
UNDP officials have shared findings from their research on the resilience of women entrepreneurs in the country.
The report was based on in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and a survey of 3,100 women entrepreneurs.
The report highlights significant challenges faced by the Afghan women, including the requirement of a male guardian (mahram) for travel and difficulties accessing financial and banking systems.
Among the women entrepreneurs surveyed, 41% applied for loans to sustain their businesses, however, only 5% successfully secured loans.
Stephen Rodriques, UNDP representative in Afghanistan, stated, “The presence of women in Afghanistan’s economy is very important. They form the economic backbone and engage in various economic activities.”
Despite these challenges, the UN has supported 75,000 small businesses, creating employment opportunities for 900,000 people.
In a summit held in Kabul city on Thursday, participants assured continued economic support for the people of Afghanistan, especially women.
Rafaela Iodis, European Union’s Charge d’Affaires in Kabul, said, “I am happy to be here today. We are working on an important report, and I want to say that we are here to honor the courage, strength, and hope of Afghan women. This is not a political statement but a deep feeling I have had during my two years here, seeing what you can achieve.”
Takayoshi Kuromiya, Japan’s ambassador to Kabul, also stated, “We have provided many essential supplies to support Afghan women and emphasize that the people of Japan always stand with the Afghan citizens, especially women and children in Afghanistan.”
Recently, the World Bank allocated 16 million dollars to support women’s businesses in Afghanistan.
