Woman establishes confectionery factory in Northern Afghanistan, providing jobs and hope
In a province struggling with economic hardships, one woman’s initiative is transforming lives
KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) – In northern Afghanistan’s Jawzjan province, a woman’s determination to support her family has led to the creation of a confectionery factory, offering employment opportunities to other women facing financial difficulties.
Shokria Mosaddiq, the founder of Best Sweet Shop, launched the factory a year ago with the goal of empowering women through work.
She now employs ten women, providing them with a source of income in a region where job opportunities are scarce.
“The factory was aimed at creating jobs for women,” Mosaddiq told Pajhwok Afghan News (PAN).
“With this initiative, I have been able to provide employment for ten other women,” she added.
Her factory produces a variety of sweets, cakes, and cookies daily, catering to a growing local demand.
As her business expands, she hopes to employ even more women, many of whom have skills but lack opportunities to earn a livelihood.
“Currently, we make all kinds of sweets and cakes in our shop. As our business prospers, I will increase production and try to attract more women to work,” she said.
Despite her success, Mosaddiq faces challenges in scaling her business.
She called on the Islamic Emirate and private organizations for support, urging them to provide resources such as workspace, equipment, and supplies.
For the women employed at the factory, the opportunity has been life-changing.
Samira, one of the workers, expressed gratitude for the skills she has gained and the financial contribution she can make to her family.
“No one in my family has an income except my father and me. We are four people. When I earn a living and buy things for my home, I feel like a strong support for my father. I am very happy working here,” she said to PAN.
Suraya, another worker who has been baking pastries at the shop for eight months, earns 3,000 Afghanis per month.
“Creating this shop enabled me and my colleagues to actively contribute to our families’ economies,” she noted.
Latifa Sarwarzada, head of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industries, stressed the importance of supporting such initiatives, recognizing the vital role they play in improving the economic conditions of Afghan women.
“The Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industries is working with all its might to serve women in business and provide material and spiritual support for their efforts,” Sarwarzada stated.
She emphasized that businesses like Mosaddiq’s are essential in the current economic climate, not only sustaining families but also fostering financial independence for women in Afghanistan.
Mosaddiq’s initiative stands as a beacon of resilience, proving that even in challenging times, women can drive economic change and empowerment.
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