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United Nations Applauds Afghan Women Entrepreneurs' Resilience Amid Taliban's Rule

By: GWL Team | Thursday, 24 August 2023

The United Nations (UN) has officially praised Afghan women for their innovative spirit and consistent contributions to economic prosperity in a powerful show of unity. This memorial service takes place in the midst of the Taliban regime's ongoing tyranny, which has severely curtailed women's chances and rights.

In observance of World Entrepreneurs Day, the UN expressed its support for Afghan women business owners, recognising their crucial contribution to job creation and national economic growth. UN Women Afghanistan said emphatically on X (formerly Twitter) that "On World Entrepreneurs Day, we praise the wonderful Afghan women entrepreneurs we work with across the country. They have our unwavering support as they strive despite all obstacles to innovate, create employment, engage in, and contribute to economic progress.

With projects covering a range of industries, from tiny local crafts to substantial cross-industry businesses, these entrepreneurs have overcome obstacles. Their businesses are now essential for creating jobs in the area and boosting economic resilience in the face of adverse conditions.

Some Afghan women business owners have expressed worries about what they feel is insufficient UN assistance, despite their admirable efforts. Women's Chamber of Commerce member Nafisa Danesh expressed her dissatisfaction by saying, "The United Nations only has luxury offices, which costs a huge amount per month, but unfortunately, it does not support women in the least. In such a situation, I personally, as an entrepreneur, expect the United Nations to cooperate with Afghan women entrepreneurs."

According to data from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, government assistance for women entrepreneurs has helped thousands of people invest in a variety of industries. The Women's Chamber of Commerce, which has 560 members, is evidence of the women's expanding power.

An impressive accomplishment given the difficulties presented by the Taliban's return is the fact that some 8,000 Afghan women are currently actively involved in a variety of economic areas. Abdul Salam Jawad Akhundzada, a spokesman for the Taliban, emphasised the contribution that women might make to boosting family food security and eradicating poverty.

Since the Taliban's leadership began in 2021, Afghan women have faced several difficulties. The regime's policies have sparked worldwide concern because they restrict access to public areas, work opportunities, and education. According to recent estimates, the Taliban's prohibition on women's beauty shops has resulted in the loss of employment for up to 60,000 women.

As these women battle adversity to spur economic progress in Afghanistan, the international world continues to closely monitor the country. The UN's acknowledgement highlights the tenacity and will of Afghan women business owners as they negotiate an uncertain future while remaining committed to advancement.