A three-day exhibition, titled ‘Bibi Khadija’ opened on Saturday, Feb. 7, in Badakhshan, where businesswomen from across the province are showcasing their handicrafts, local products, and homemade goods.
Shohra Tamanna, head of the Badakhshan Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industries, said the exhibition was designed to give small and medium producers, as well as larger companies, a dedicated space to present their products and connect with customers and one another.
She explained, “Our aim is to create direct links between women producers and the market. This exhibition is more than just a collection of stalls. We want women to introduce and sell their products directly to the public.”
She added that many women produce handicrafts at home but have limited access to markets. Through this exhibition, she said, traditional arts and handicrafts are being highlighted, while modern and innovative products are also finding their place.
Rokhsar Rezaei, one of the participants, said taking part in the exhibition gives her a valuable opportunity to display and sell her products. She said,
“I work in confectionery and have brought halva, walnut, gulab jamun, and honey,” and she added, “This exhibition is very useful because it allows us to offer everything we produce at home. When people buy our products, it motivates us to continue our work and increase production.”
Sadia Rezaei, another participant, said the exhibition allows her to introduce the achievements of Badakhshani women in handicrafts.
“Our products include Afghan clothes (Afghani gand), beaded garments, Tajik belts, as well as Badakhshani hats,” She said.
She added that holding such exhibitions was very important and that she hoped people would come to see their work up close.
Among the visitors, Setayesh Yaftali said she came not only to shop but also to support and encourage women.
“I was here on the first day and the products were amazing,” she said. “Today, I brought money to buy products and necessities for Eid. My main goal is to encourage women, and I hope women across Afghanistan support one another.”
Another visitor, Nahed Nahawi, said she attended to see the art and products of Badakhshani women and to support them.
“I wanted to see local clothing, dried fruits, and traditional foods, and to buy whatever I could,” she said. “It makes me happy to see other women coming, purchasing products they like, and encouraging the artisans in this way.”
Overall, the exhibition offers women a valuable opportunity to showcase their skills and creativity, access direct markets for their products, and connect with the public as well as other businessmen and businesswomen.
Reporter: Mehrangiz Ghazi
