A women-led exhibition showcasing locally made handicrafts and products opened in Kabul this week, aiming to support domestic production and create income opportunities for women, organisers said.
The exhibition, called “Shin Lari,” features goods produced by women and girls, including handicrafts and other locally made items. Organisers said the event was intended to promote Afghan-made products and help women sell their work in a difficult economic environment.
Several participants, however, said weak purchasing power and broader economic hardship were limiting sales.
“Some of our products have sold and some have not, depending on the price,” said Maryam, a vendor at the exhibition. “The main challenges we face are the lack of proper working space and the current economic situation. Right now, there is no suitable place specifically for women.”
Other women said they had received little support and lacked basic facilities.
“Since we arrived, no assistance has been provided,” said another vendor, Zahra. “We managed everything ourselves with our own efforts and money. Electricity shortages are a major problem in Afghanistan, and we need access to solar power.”
Afghanistan’s economy has struggled since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, with reduced foreign aid, high unemployment and restrictions on women’s participation in public life weighing heavily on livelihoods.
Despite these challenges, women producers said exhibitions such as Shin Lari offer a rare opportunity to market their products and sustain their families, while also providing hope for greater economic empowerment for women and girls.
