PAST PROJECT

Due to the high unemployment rates in Afghanistan, the aim of this project was to provide livelihood development opportunities to poor families in Kabul and Andkhoi. The project provided young men with carpentry vocational training in Kabul and provided women with Carpet weaving training in Andkhoi.

A lack of skills for income generation is a major cause of unemployment and poverty in Afghanistan. Young men are especially at risk, since the severe lack of income generation opportunities often times forces young men into illegal and insurgent activities. To address this issue, IDRF collaborated with PRB and provided vulnerable young men with vocational training in carpentry, a highly marketable skill. Young men received on-the-job carpentry training as well as a basic carpentry kit, and also learned basic level small business skills, which they were able to use later to start-up a new business and to better support their families.

Andkhoi, a district affiliated with Faryab province in the north of Afghanistan, is one of the least developed areas of the country which has been experiencing a severe drought for the past few years. The Andkhoi people suffer increasingly from poverty and a lack of livelihood development opportunities. In addition, women in the carpet weaving profession lack the resources and skills necessary to compete in local and foreign markets. In order to produce high-quality carpets and to compete in various markets, women need to receive intensive vocational training focused on all stages of the carpet weaving process.

This project empowered vulnerable women in Andkhoi by enhancing their livelihood opportunities. The women received training in the carpet weaving process as well as training in designs and marketing. In addition, they receive equipment and the tools necessary to start-up their own businesses, as well as will be provided with a cash credit to ensure the success in their livelihood and business development.

Partner: Partners in Revitalization and Building (PRB)