RASC News Agency: The recent announcement by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) regarding a two-year project in Afghanistan represents a significant step towards addressing the persistent gender inequality in the country. Collaborating with Japan, who has committed a sum of 10 million dollars, the UNDP aims to empower and enhance the participation of women in various sectors.
A memorandum was signed between the UNDP representative and the Japanese ambassador in Kabul, marking the official launch of this crucial initiative. Tasked with the implementation of the project, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) will carry out activities in the provinces of Kunar, Logar, Kandahar, Zabul, Baghlan, Kunduz, and Kapisa, fostering the growth of women entrepreneurs.
Through this project, it is anticipated that approximately 1,400 women will gain employment, significantly improving their economic standing. It is disconcerting that these contributions come at a time when Afghanistani women and girls face severe economic hardships.
Since the Taliban’s resurgence, the plight of Afghanistani women has worsened. The strict limitations imposed by the Taliban, such as the closure of schools and universities for girls, the exclusion of women from governmental and non-governmental positions, the shuttering of beauty parlors, and the prohibition of women working as beauticians have raised serious concerns among the populace.
It is disheartening that Afghanistan remains the only country where women and girls are denied their fundamental rights to education and employment. The need to address this issue is urgent, and the UNDP’s collaborative efforts with Japan demonstrate a commitment to rectifying this unjust situation. By empowering women in Afghanistan, not only will their lives improve, but the entire nation will benefit from their valuable contributions.
