This comprehensive qualitative report delves into the challenges and opportunities for women in agribusiness across four provinces in Afghanistan: Herat, Kandahar, Balkh, and Nangarhar. It uncovers the diverse challenges and opportunities shaped by local economic conditions, cultural norms, and access to resources.
Women in regions with strategic geographical advantages recognize dynamic opportunities that enable cross-border trade and investment. However, persistent cultural norms and societal expectations create significant barriers, limiting their business expansion despite existing supportive efforts.
In contrast, women in provinces plagued by instability and restrictive governmental policies encounter stagnant business environments, often resorting to small-scale, home-based activities that confine their economic potential. The report highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve access to markets, finance, and technical skills training.
The report also emphasizes that women's economic empowerment in agribusiness is essential for broader societal progress and sustainable development. It advocates for strategic partnerships and holistic approaches that promote gender-sensitive policies, enhance market linkages, and foster inclusive growth.
The findings are based on a robust qualitative analysis, including focus group discussions with women entrepreneurs and key stakeholders across the four provinces. These insights provide a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for women in Afghanistan's agribusiness sector, paving the way for effective programs that empower women and contribute to the nation's economic stability and inclusive growth.