Stepping up the Startups: Private Sector Development in Afghanistan

“Women-led businesses play a vital role in promoting gender equality and empowering women in the workforce. They are role models, inspiring other women to pursue leadership roles and entrepreneurship.”
Bibi Gul 

Bibi Gul, the president of Nagin Azizi, an interlocking paving stone production company, started her business with a few interlocking paver block machines five years ago in Herat City. “After the takeover of the country, the company almost collapsed and couldn't generate revenue even to pay the staff salaries,” Bibi Gul recalled sadly. 

The interlock production rate was significantly reduced, and the company could keep only 5~8 of their staff and produced 500-800 interlocks per day due to less market demand.

It is very difficult for a women-owned business, particularly in the construction field, to operate in such a restricted environment. However, Bibi Gul wants to stay in the country and support her people during this difficult time. 

The CRL Project has been implementing more than 70 projects in Herat City, out of which around 10 projects have an output requiring interlocking installation. Bibi Gul’s company produces and supplies interlocks to the construction companies implementing the CRL Project in Herat City. 

Interlocks used for the CRL project in Herat Province @UNOPS/Hijratullah Hijran

Working with the CRL, Bibi Gul has gradually expanded her business by investing in new interlocking paver block machines, also increasing workers to 20-25 for mass production. Her business can now produce more than 1,500 interlocks in a day.

“There is now a good market for my products, so there is room for growth for my business. Thanks to the CRL project for bringing such a beneficial and life-changing project. I also request UNOPS and other organizations to increase the number of such projects and create more space for the private sector to grow”, Bibi Gul said. 

*Name changed to protect the subject's privacy.