Afghan women embrace cooperatives to strengthen livelihoods

Kabul (ILO news) – Women in Afghanistan are learning how cooperative models can help them access markets, pool resources and build stronger, more sustainable businesses.

In November 2025, ILO organized a women-only cooperative training for 60 agro-based businesses from Laghman and Nangarhar provinces. Participants included women entrepreneurs, business owners, community members and those operating in women’s markets.

The practical training introduced participants to the basics of cooperative development, governance and management. It was delivered by a cohort of Cooperative Trainers previously trained by the ILO in northern Afghanistan.

The ILO worked closely with FAO to identify women-owned businesses from among its beneficiaries to take part in the training, which was based on ILO’s Think.COOP and Start.COOP modules in line with ILO’s strategy and action plan on decent work and the social and solidarity economy (SSE). The activity was funded by the Special Trust Fund for Afghanistan (STFA).

© ILO

© ILO

Implemented in partnership with UNDP, UN Women, and other UN agencies, the initiative formed a core component of the broader Durable Solutions Programme which was developed in response to the large influx of Afghan returnees from Pakistan and the increasing number of protracted internally displaced persons (IDPs) seeking sustainable livelihoods in the Eastern Region.

“Cooperative models offer women in Afghanistan a pathway toward improved livelihoods and shared prosperity while strengthening local economies. By supporting women-led enterprises, we help build the foundations for lasting social cohesion and community resilience,” said Tite Habiyakare, Senior Coordinator ILO Office for Afghanistan.

ILO’s cooperative development initiatives in Afghanistan contribute to broader efforts to create sustainable economic opportunities, enhance social cohesion and build community resilience. By equipping women entrepreneurs with practical skills in cooperative governance, business planning, and group enterprise management, the ILO is nurturing an inclusive local economy. These initiatives help communities generate collective economic value, improve access to decent work, and strengthen their capacity to withstand shocks.

© ILO

© ILO