Nimroz Businesswomen Demand Government Support for Market Access

Nimroz, a province in Afghanistan, is witnessing a surge in the number of businesswomen who are eager to make their mark in the marketplace. However, these women are facing significant challenges, particularly in obtaining work permits and finding suitable markets for their products. The Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Nimroz has reported a notable increase in active businesswomen in recent months, highlighting the urgent need for support from the interim government.

Fazl Mohammad Fazli, the head of industry and commerce in Nimroz, has acknowledged the efforts being made to assist these women. He stated, "During this period, some workshops have obtained licenses, and others are in the process of applying. We have assisted them and will continue to help as much as we can." This support is crucial, as many women are eager to contribute to the economy but are hindered by bureaucratic obstacles.

One such businesswoman, Malalai Mohammadi, has been running a workshop in Zaranj city for two years, where she trains other women to produce children’s toys. Despite her success in training 35 women, she has faced financial difficulties due to the lack of a suitable market for her products. Malalai expressed her concerns, saying, "We ask the government to support women. This is an innovation. We also need cooperation from other provinces. Our budget is limited, for instance, for raw materials and standard machinery." Her plea reflects the broader struggles faced by many women in the region.

Suraya, a trainee in Malalai's workshop, echoed these sentiments, stating, "We ask the government to support us. There are other women in this workshop who are in need and must be supported." The statistics from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Nimroz reveal that over 1,000 women and girls are engaged in business activities, showcasing the potential for growth in this sector.

Palwasha Shams, the head of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Nimroz, highlighted the challenges women face in obtaining licenses. She explained, "A woman who wants to obtain a license must go to Kabul, which costs 50,000 or 60,000 Afghani. If a woman has 60,000 or 70,000 Afghani, she could start a large business instead of a small one." This financial burden is a significant barrier for many aspiring entrepreneurs.

Shahgul Gulzadeh, another businesswoman, called on the authorities to support workshops like hers, emphasizing the need for their products to reach other provinces. Local officials have expressed their commitment to supporting women’s business activities, noting that obtaining a work permit is essential for legal operation. Omar Zubair, head of the work and social affairs department in Nimroz, stated, "Anyone who establishes a workshop, we grant them a license. First, they obtain a license from the ministry, and then they come here and legally start their workshop."

In the past three years, the business activities of women in Nimroz have significantly increased, with many creating workshops for handmade products. This not only provides work and income opportunities for themselves but also for hundreds of other women and girls in the province. The growth of women-led businesses is a positive sign for the local economy, but it is clear that more support is needed.

The call for assistance from Nimroz's businesswomen highlights the importance of government support in fostering entrepreneurship. By addressing the challenges of obtaining work permits and providing access to markets, the interim government can empower these women to thrive. Supporting women in business is not just about economic growth; it is about creating a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. As these women continue to push for their rights and opportunities, their resilience serves as an inspiration for future generations.