KABUL, Afghanistan — The Special Trust Fund for Afghanistan (STFA) has announced its ongoing support for thousands of Afghan small businesses, the majority of which are led by women.
The STFA’s support is facilitated by 17 UN agencies and backed by contributions from 13 donors. This initiative aligns with the UN General Assembly’s designation of June 27 as Micro-, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises Day.
Since the Taliban took power, women entrepreneurs have reported significant challenges in accessing markets due to gender discrimination.
Despite these obstacles, many women have turned to industries such as tailoring, arts, and small businesses as alternatives, particularly for girls who were barred from attending schools and universities.
These efforts are not only a means of economic survival but also a way to cope with mental pressure and maintain hope for a fairer future.
