The office of the Islamic Emirate’s governor in Bamiyan announced the opening of a handicrafts market dedicated to women in the Yakawlang district of the province.
Kabul 24: The market was inaugurated by Mawlavi Abdullah Sarhadi, the governor of Bamiyan, on Tuesday, 10 Saratan 1404 (July 1, 2025). This initiative aims to support female entrepreneurs and bolster the local economy, marking a significant step toward economic self-sufficiency and empowering women within the framework of Islamic values.
Constructed with a budget of 4 million Afghanis, the market was funded through a joint effort by the local community and the Yakawlang municipality. It features 60 new stalls, along with concrete roads and walkways, creating a safe and accessible space for women to showcase and sell their handicrafts. The market provides a platform for displaying products such as kilims, felt rugs, carpets, embroidered clothing, and other traditional crafts from the Hazara-inhabited regions, which have gained both national and international recognition in recent years.During the opening ceremony, Governor Sarhadi praised the Yakawlang municipality for its efforts in supporting female entrepreneurs.
He reiterated the local administration’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women’s trade and commerce while adhering to Islamic principles.
This pledge underscores the authorities’ dedication to fostering economic empowerment and enhancing the role of women in Bamiyan’s society.
The handicrafts of Bamiyan, particularly those produced by women, have earned acclaim for their quality and authenticity, attracting attention in domestic and global markets, including countries like India, Germany, and the United States.
The new market serves as a vital link, enabling women to access local and potentially international markets, thereby improving family livelihoods and preserving the region’s rich cultural and artistic heritage.
For the sustained success of this project, ongoing collaboration with local institutions and investment in vocational training for women are crucial.
This market could serve as a model for other provinces, paving the way for more women to achieve economic independence and contribute to their communities’ prosperity.
