UNHCR opens women’s empowerment center in Kabul

KABUL (Pajhwok): The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has inaugurated a training center in Kabul aimed at empowering women returnees from neighboring countries.

In a statement, the agency said that this week, on the occasion of World Refugee Day, UNHCR and partners opened the INSAF Women’s Integrated Services and Facilities Center in Kabul.

Eshwa, a displaced woman from Mazar, now leads a tailoring business here, said, “Thanks to this center, I have found purpose, and now 15 young women work with me, earning an income and gaining hope through craft.”

“The centre is a safe space for women entrepreneurs, including returnee and displaced women. With training, counseling, and business support, the center will enable women to transform ideas into sustainable enterprises.”

The centre is a collaboration between United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Afghanistan Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AWCCI), UNHCR and its partner APBHO.

“I am truly inspired by the resilience of these women. More than a place of business, the center is a space where women feel safe, seen, and empowered,” said Arafat Jamal, UNHCR Representative in Afghanistan.

sa/ma