KABUL (SW) – A number of Afghan female entrepreneurs participating in the 31st Autumn Exhibition of Agricultural Products, Livestock, and Domestic Goods in “Badam Bagh”, an open-air exhibition garden facility in Kabul, have expressed their optimism about the event.
They highlighted that exhibitions provide them with valuable marketing opportunities and called for increased attention to this area.
Fawzia Sakhi Zada, head of a sewing and embroidery workshop, shared her hopes for selling handicrafts at the exhibition. “Exhibitions help us connect with financial supporters and various organizations, allowing us to reach more customers,” she said.
Fawzia, who traveled from Badakhshan with the support of the ACTED organization, said that her workshop provides job opportunities for 50 women in sewing, embroidery, beadwork, and wool spinning.
Anita Sakhi Zada, another female trader in handicrafts and agriculture, mentioned that it was her first time participating in the exhibition with support from ACTED. “I am very happy and encourage supportive organizations to assist more women in becoming independent,” she said, urging the de0facto government and aid agencies to expand opportunities for female traders to participate in exhibitions.
Habiba Sadat, a 58-year-old artisan, reported securing several contracts for producing tents, traditional clothing, and garments during the exhibition.
Masouda Osmani, head of the “Angabin” company and another exhibitor, emphasized the benefits of participating in the exhibition. “Firstly, it raises awareness about local products, and secondly, it improves the marketing and sales of our goods,” she said.
Khatera Noori, in charge of the “Talash” sewing and handicrafts workshop, shared that she personally secured a booth from the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock. “I am satisfied with my participation; it has allowed me to meet other female traders, and the turnout has been high, resulting in good sales,” she added.
Khatera mentioned that her workshop employs 11 people, producing handicrafts, weaving tools, traditional Afghan clothing and purses. “I urge organizations to come and support us so we can produce and sell even more products.”
Sewita, a 20-year-old employee of Rupani Company, explained that over 60 people work in jewelry making and engraving within the company. “In each sector, 10 to 20 individuals are involved in jewelry, engraving, and stone carving. I am happy to be here, as our sales are strong and visitor numbers are high,” she said.
Diana, a 21-year-old who established a handicrafts company two years ago, has created jobs for 16 people. She produces Afghan clothing, beaded purses, and other handicrafts for both domestic and international markets. “The exhibition truly represents our culture; it is the only platform where women can work comfortably and sell their products. Organizations and people visit and help market our goods,” she said.
The exhibition showcased a variety of agricultural and livestock products from Afghanistan, processed goods, handicrafts, agricultural machinery, and domestic production equipment. According to a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock, the 31st Autumn Exhibition featured 263 booths, with 56 designated for women.
The exhibition was inaugurated last Wednesday in Badam Bagh, Kabul, with the presence of high-ranking officials from the de0facto government of the Islamic Emirate, including Abdul Ghani Baradar, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, as well as officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and various national and international organizations.
