Afghan women are getting into business, an arena long dominated by men. Kamila Kabuli is rocking the streets of Mazar-i-Sharif by selling cosmetics products.
The provincial women’s department was instrumental in setting up stall for Kabuli. It has set up two more stalls that sell handicrafts and clothes. Also, it plans to open another 20 and rent them out to women in pursuing weeks.
Their action has experienced some opposition since native women are exploding the stereotypical myth by entering into business.
However, Kabuli says,
‘I’m very proud to have been chosen for this job although it is difficult. It can be a bit tough, but I can show that women can do it’.
Native men are teasing the women by targeting them as a laughing stock. Many other women however are thrilled to see the female-run stalls.
Shopper Bibi Fatuma said women develop some comfort zone while buying products from a woman and this makes them easier to interact, which however is not the case with men shopkeepers.
Some men have also welcomed the project. However, not everyone is upbeat. There are people who are still doubtful regarding the credentials of women shopkeepers.
Nevertheless, women folk are happier at the move as it gives them a little bit of independence. They are looking forward towards ‘a big market for women selling stuff’.
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