Women's Education Questions Off-Limits, Says Taliban Minister
During a press briefing in Kabul on Sunday, 25 August, Nadeem explained that discussing the issue is currently futile, as no satisfactory answers can be provided at this time.
Addressing the ongoing ban on women’s education, Nadeem stated that those lacking religious authority should refrain from positioning themselves as scholars on the matter. “We have demonstrated that our decrees are in full accordance with Islam and Sharia law,” the minister declared. He further emphasized that the Taliban’s policies on women’s education are not in conflict with “Islamic laws and Afghan traditions.”
Nadeem acknowledged that the issue is complex and sensitive, making immediate decisions difficult. He mentioned that religious scholars are currently examining the matter, and if it is determined that women’s education is permissible under specific conditions, the ban may be lifted. Otherwise, the suspension will remain in place.
The minister also challenged religious scholars to prove, under the Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence, that women’s education is permissible, stating that the issue would be resolved if such proof were found. He referenced the Taliban leader’s stance, asserting that “the ruler is bound by Sharia, and we are servants of Sharia; whatever Sharia decides will be implemented.”
It has now been three years since the Taliban closed schools for girls above sixth grade. The Taliban have banned women’s education “until further notice” and, in response to international criticism, insisted that the matter is an “internal affair of Afghanistan.” They have repeatedly stated that international organizations and foreign governments have no right to interfere in this issue.
Previously, on 4 July, UN Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo remarked that human rights and girls’ education in Afghanistan are not solely domestic concerns, as the country is bound by international obligations.
Islamic Scholars Oppose Taliban Minister's Stance on Girls' Education, Says Scholars
Sibghatullah Mawlawizada of Herat Darul Uloom has stated that the recent remarks by Taliban’s Minister of Higher Education regarding the prohibition of girls’ education reflect his personal opinion.
Mawlawizada added that religious scholars in Afghanistan and the Islamic world oppose this opinion. This prominent scholar, while emphasising on the importance of education for girls, challenged Neda Mohammad Nadeem to a scholarly debate.
On Monday, August 26, Mawlawizada, a well-known scholar, said in a video that the Taliban’s Minister of Higher Education has even prohibited raising questions about girls’ education.
With the Taliban flag by his side, Mawlawizada praised the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan. He stressed on the importance of education for both men and women, urging the Taliban to provide educational opportunities for all in accordance with Islamic law.
He added that since the Taliban’s Minister of Higher Education has invited scholars to share their religious opinions on girls’ education in modern sciences, he welcomes this invitation and calls on Nadeem to engage in a public discussion about girls’ education.
On Sunday, the Taliban’s Minister of Higher Education, during a briefing on the ministry’s activities, stated that those without religious authority should not act as religious scholars on the issue of women’s education.
Nadeem warned reporters that just as women’s education is currently suspended, questioning it is also “suspended until further notice”.
The Taliban’s Minister of Higher Education also asked religious scholars to prove, based on Hanafi jurisprudence, that women’s education is permissible, claiming that if it can be proven, the issue will be resolved. He added that the group’s stance and policies on women’s education do not contradict “Islamic principles and Afghan traditions”.
The Taliban closed girls’ schools above sixth grade and banned girls from attending university.
Taliban’s Minister Declares Sharia & Women’s Hijab As Group’s Red Line
Taliban’s Minister for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, Khalid Hanafi, has reiterated that the implementation of Sharia, Islamic punishments (hudud), and the enforcement of the hijab are non-negotiable for Taliban government.
Speaking in Sar-e-Pul province, Hanafi described the newly signed “Law for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice” as a demand from “the people of Afghanistan” and urged the international community to avoid “undue criticism”.
According to reports from Taliban-controlled National Radio and Television, Hanafi emphasised that the propagation of virtue is a “divine decree” and asserted that the Taliban government has an obligation to uphold these principles. He further stated that the establishment of the Taliban regime was intended to “implement the rituals of Islam”.
On Monday, the Taliban-controlled Bakhtar News Agency quoted Hanafi as affirming that the newly enacted law is rooted in Islamic provisions. He also warned that anyone opposing the law will be held accountable.
The Taliban recently announced that their leader ratified the “Law for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice,” which has introduced various restrictions on women in both public and private life. Human rights activists have condemned the new law, labelling it as a continuation of the Taliban’s efforts to suppress and marginalise women from public life.
Morality Law Will Hinder Global Engagement with Taliban, Says UNAMA
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) expressed concern over the Taliban’s new morality law, stating that it will make it more challenging for the international community to engage with the group.
UNAMA has called on the Taliban to clarify certain provisions of this law.
In a statement issued on Saturday, UNAMA said, “The international community has been seeking, in good faith, to constructively engage with the de facto authorities. The world wants to see Afghanistan on the path of peace and prosperity, where all Afghans have a stake in their future, are citizens with rights and not just subjects to be disciplined. Further restricting the rights of the Afghan people and holding them in constant fear will make achieving this goal even harder,”
UNAMA’s statement highlighted that the article 35 of “Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice” law, recently ratified by the Taliban leader, imposes extensive restrictions on personal conduct while granting broad enforcement powers to the morality police.
Rosa Otunbayeva, UN special envoy in Kabul, remarked, “It is a distressing vision for Afghanistan’s future, where moral inspectors have discretionary powers to threaten and detain anyone based on broad and sometimes vague lists of infractions.”
Otunbayeva noted that the law intensifies previous restrictions and even considers women’s voices outside the home as a moral offence.
The UNAMA statement also pointed out that the new law, by completely ignoring the diversity of Afghanistan’s religious community, has concerning implications for religious freedoms in the country, and these restrictions also affect the work of journalists and the media.
UNAMA emphasised that Afghans should not be punished simply for being late to prayer, looking at a woman who is not a family member, or carrying photos of their loved ones.
The statement also mentioned that UNAMA is currently assessing the law’s impact on the Afghan people and international humanitarian aid to the country.
Australia condemns Taliban’s moves to silence Afghan women, girls
Australia’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, has strongly condemned the Taliban’s efforts to suppress the voices of Afghan women and girls.
In a post on X, Wong criticized the latest decree by the Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, which bans women from speaking or showing their faces in public.
“The latest vice and virtue decree bans women’s voices and bare faces in public,” Wong wrote, expressing Australia’s unwavering support for the rights of Afghan women and girls. “We stand together with the women and girls of Afghanistan, and in support of their human rights,” she added.
The new law, which further restricts the freedoms of Afghan women and girls, has sparked widespread condemnation internationally. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) also denounced the Taliban’s newly ratified “Law on the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.” The law, which comprises 35 articles, imposes extensive restrictions on personal conduct and grants morality police broad and arbitrary powers of enforcement.
“This law presents a distressing vision for Afghanistan’s future, where moral inspectors have the discretionary power to threaten and detain individuals based on a broad and often vague list of infractions,” said Roza Otunbayeva, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of UNAMA.
“It extends the already intolerable restrictions on the rights of Afghan women and girls, with even the sound of a female voice outside the home apparently deemed a moral violation,” Otunbayeva added.
UNAMA also warned that the new legislation threatens religious freedoms by failing to acknowledge the diversity of Afghanistan’s religious communities. Additionally, it raises concerns about increased restrictions on journalists and the media, potentially stifling freedom of expression even further in the country.
Taliban restrictions cripple female entrepreneurs’ businesses
Afghanistan — Female entrepreneurs in Afghanistan say that increasingly harsh restrictions imposed by the Taliban are crippling their businesses, making it difficult to sustain their livelihoods and participate in the economy.
During the “Victory and Economic Progress of Afghanistan” exhibition on Saturday, where 310 entrepreneurs and industrialists gathered, many of the female participants voiced frustration over the Taliban’s stringent rules. Chief among their concerns is the requirement for women to travel with a male guardian, even for short distances, which they argue has drastically increased travel costs and limited their ability to engage in business activities.
“When they [the Taliban] don’t want us to come here without a male guardian and don’t allow us to come alone, we want them to remove this mindset. Here, all the participants are women. We want women to be able to come and participate without a male guardian,” said Roqia, one of the entrepreneurs at the event.
About 200 female entrepreneurs showcased their products, including handmade crafts, embroidery, and clothing, but many reported that rising costs and declining sales are threatening their businesses. “The rent is very high; it’s very difficult. We don’t have any sales. We rely on God!” said Nilofar, another entrepreneur.
Farida, an economics graduate who started her business in 2021, noted that the Taliban’s restrictions are hindering women’s progress. “These restrictions must be lifted so that women can grow, stand on their own feet, and showcase their talents. Women work hard to reach a position, but these restrictions prevent their progress,” she said.
A recent UN report highlights the severe challenges Afghan women entrepreneurs face, including deep discrimination and a weakened financial system, which has forced 41% of them to seek loans just to keep their businesses running.
The concerns expressed at the exhibition underscore the broader impact of the Taliban’s policies on women’s economic participation, as they struggle to maintain their businesses under an increasingly repressive regime.
Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan Hold Trilateral Meeting in Kabul
A trilateral meeting of Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan was held in Kabul, hosted by the acting Minister of Industry and Commerce of the De Facto Government, with the participation of the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment of Uzbekistan and the Deputy Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce stated that the meeting focused on regional cooperation, the development of trade and transit, and attracting investment in Afghanistan.
“The Kazakhs and Uzbeks are trying to connect to South Asia through Afghanistan and implement global projects, and our officials should be prepared and cooperate,” said Mohammad Nabi Afghan, an economic affairs expert.
Additionally, a bilateral meeting between delegations from Uzbekistan and Afghanistan was also held, where they discussed establishing trade houses in Afghanistan and Uzbekistan and investing in the Termez International Trade Center.
Meanwhile, the Chamber of Commerce and Investment said such meetings are crucial for the growth and development of trade. The chamber officials added that in the last three years, around forty high-level regional delegations have visited Afghanistan to enhance and expand trade relations with Central Asian countries, and efforts are being made to increase exports.
“With the arrival of the De Facto Government, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce is trying to reduce dependency on one country and turn to Central Asia. In three years, more than forty delegations at the level of ministers and deputy prime ministers have visited Afghanistan,” said Khan Jan Alokozay, a member of the ACCI’s board of directors.
Meanwhile, the charge d’affaires of the De Facto Government’s embassy in Islamabad, Sardar Ahmad Shakib, said in a virtual meeting that over two billion dollars of exports were made from Afghanistan to other countries last year, with $1.178 billion dollars worth of exports to Pakistan and $416 million dollars worth of exports to India.
Shakib said, “Last year, Afghanistan exported goods worth $2.025 billion, 36.3% of which were fresh and dried fruits. Among these, exports worth $1.178 billion were made to Pakistan, $416 million to India, $34 million to the UAE, $28 million to China, and $27 million to Iran.”
This comes as, in the past three years, representatives from several countries, including China, Iran, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, the UK, Russia, Qatar, and the United States, have visited Afghanistan to expand and develop Afghanistan’s commercial and economic relations with regional and global countries. Among them, China and Qatar have already invested in Afghanistan.
Stop on Hairatan - Mazar-e-Sharif Railway Inaugurated
Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, stated today (Wednesday) during the inauguration of the fourth stop on the Hairatan-Mazar-e-Sharif railway that Afghanistan’s geographical and strategic location is a key connecting point for Central Asian countries.
Baradar emphasized at the ceremony that the De Facto Government is striving to find various ways to connect regional countries. He said, “Afghanistan’s geographical and strategic location is a key connecting point for Central Asian countries. Considering this, the De Facto Government of Afghanistan is working to find various ways to strengthen the regional economy by connecting the countries of the region.”
Mohammad Esa Thani, acting Minister of Public Works, mentioned that the De Facto Government aims to transform the Hairatan-Mazar-e-Sharif railway, also known as the Naibabad railway, into a regional crossroads for the transport of commercial goods from neighboring countries.
Thani added, “Our joint delegation with Uzbekistan will travel to Jawzjan, then to Faryab and Badghis, and then to Herat, Nimroz, Farah, Helmand, and Kandahar. God willing, this route will be extended up to Pakistan.”
According to the acting Minister of Public Works, the Hairatan-Mazar-e-Sharif or Naibabad stop has been reactivated after several years and spans 50 kilometers.
The Governor of Balkh and representatives from Uzbekistan consider the reactivation of this stop beneficial for facilitating trade between the two countries. Mohammad Yousuf Wafa, Governor of Balkh, remarked, “This is a source of joy for traders, it boosts economic capacities, and brings many facilities.”
Ismatullah Irgashev, Uzbekistan’s special envoy on Afghanistan, said at the ceremony, “We hope this route will symbolize brotherhood, friendship, and good neighborliness between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, and in addition, it will contribute to the revival of Afghanistan’s national economy.”
The repair work on the Hairatan-Mazar-e-Sharif railway route began in February last year by an Uzbekistan company at a cost of $6.3 million. The repair work has now been completed up to the fourth port—Naibabad section, and it has been put into operation.
Impact Assessed of Intl Aid on Afghan Economy in Last 3 Years
Humanitarian aid from the United Nations and donor countries to Afghanistan over the past three years has been one of the key economic issues for the country.
Despite steps taken by the De Facto Government’s authorities in areas such as security, reconstruction, and the implementation of certain projects, particularly in establishing economic relations with neighboring countries, the region, and the world, words like poverty, unemployment, and migration continue to dominate the headlines.
Hamidullah, a resident of Kabul, said: “No one asks how we are doing, what problems we have. We have not received any aid.”
However, in the latest instance, the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) in its 64th quarterly report stated that the United States has allocated $20.7 billion for Afghanistan since August 2021, including $2.9 billion for humanitarian and development aid, $3.7 billion for transferring Afghan assets to a trust fund, and over $14 billion for Afghan refugees.
But the Ministry of Economy of the De Facto Government has called SIGAR’s report an exaggeration, saying that this amount of money has not been made available to the citizens of the country.
Additionally, the United Nations has announced that despite billions of dollars flowing into Afghanistan, the country is still facing widespread poverty.
Roza Otunbayeva, head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), said on June 22, 2023: “More than seven billion dollars have been provided by international donors for humanitarian assistance and more than four billion to support basic human needs for the Afghan people since the Taliban takeover.”
Given these reports, analysts are questioning the effectiveness of humanitarian aid efforts from the UN, the European Union, the US, and other donor countries and organizations.
Shabbir Bashiri, an economic expert, said: “Humanitarian aid over the past three years, as its name suggests, has been humanitarian, and some of this aid has reached those in need.”
Officials in the De Facto Government do not consider the humanitarian aid from international organizations and donor countries sufficient to reduce poverty in Afghanistan and emphasize efforts to shift this aid towards entrepreneurial sectors.
Abdul Latif Nazari, the Deputy Minister of Economy, said, “Over the past three years, international community aid and relief organizations have been effective, but insufficient, and the reason is that most of this aid has been humanitarian. We are striving to turn this aid into developmental assistance.”
At the same time, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has announced that half of Afghanistan’s population lives in poverty, and one in four Afghans is uncertain about where their next meal will come from.
According to OCHA statistics, around 23.7 million people in Afghanistan will need humanitarian aid this year, making it the third-highest number of people in need worldwide.
First Afghan Mineral Shipment Exported to China via Chabahar Port
The first transit shipment carrying Afghan minerals has been exported to China via Chabahar Port. The Deputy of Ports and Economic Affairs at the General Directorate of Ports and Maritime of Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran, stated that around 12 trucks carrying Afghan transit minerals, which had entered the country from Nimroz, were transferred to China.
The Chamber of Commerce and Investment confirmed this development, recognizing Chabahar Port as a suitable alternative for trade with Pakistan, facilitating the export of Afghan goods to European countries and India.
Khan Jan Alokozay, a member of the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said, “Twelve trucks of minerals that departed from Nimroz moved towards Chabahar and were loaded onto a ship today, heading for China. This is a fortunate development, and we should continue using this route. The technical issues present in Chabahar, including transportation, security, technicalities, and shipping, as well as money transfer challenges, must be resolved.”
Some traders note that sea freight costs are lower, and necessary facilities should be provided at Chabahar Port to expedite the export of goods to regional and global markets.
Omid Haidari, a trader, said, “We use Bandar Abbas for exporting our goods, which is time-consuming and takes over a month. However, Chabahar Port could reduce costs and time.”
Another trader, Khwaja Dawood Siddiqi, added, “They should establish a route through Chabahar for us to start exports to India, China, and Turkey. For nearly three years, whenever the harvest season begins in our country, Pakistan closes its ports under various pretexts, causing the fresh fruits and vegetables of Afghanistan to spoil.”
Chabahar Port is one of the most significant maritime ports for trade, and Afghanistan can utilize it to export its goods to countries such as China, India, Bangladesh, Turkey, and through Turkey to European countries.
According to some experts, challenges in trading with Pakistan, such as increased customs tariffs on fresh fruits and vegetables, the requirement for visas, passports, and temporary entry permits for Afghan drivers, and the recent closure of Pakistani border crossings to Afghan freight trucks, have increased Afghan traders’ dependence on Chabahar Port for exporting goods.
Kandahar increases exports of dried fruit and nuts to India
Twelve thousand tons of dry fruit and nuts has been exported from Kandahar to India during the last four months.
Officials from Kandahar’s chamber of commerce say that facilities in the export process have been provided by both countries.
According to the officials they are trying to export to European countries as well.
Businessmen have welcomed the increase in exports to India but have called for the visa process to be speeded up.
Officials said the exports to India primarily consisted of almonds, raisins, walnuts and dried figs.
Azizi: Over $7 Billion Invested in the Last 3 Years
In an exclusive interview with Media, Nooruddin Azizi, the acting Minister of Industry and Commerce, revealed that over the past three years, more than $7 billion has been invested in Afghanistan, with $500 million of that amount directed towards the industrial sector.
Azizi urged all investors in the country to take immediate steps to transfer their investments from foreign countries to Afghanistan. According to the acting Minister, the De Facto Government is striving to increase the level of investment in the country.
Nooruddin Azizi told media: “Today, hundreds of companies from Europe, neighboring countries, and the region, particularly Afghan investors, are ready to come and invest in the production and packaging of vehicles in Afghanistan.”
In the interview, Azizi added that in the near future, contracts worth $80 million will be signed, with over 80% of these projects dedicated to supporting women entrepreneurs. He mentioned that currently, 50,000 small businesses and over 9,000 companies owned by women entrepreneurs are operating in Afghanistan, and the De Facto Government supports them.
Nooruddin Azizi stated, “In the energy sector, we have an important agreement with Turkmenistan. Alhamdulillah, two private Afghan companies, under the name 500 Kilovolt, are planning to complete the unfinished work and deliver it to Kabul, and from Kabul to Ghazni and Kandahar, creating a circular route.”
The acting Minister also emphasized that industrialization is one of the main priorities of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. Currently, nearly 50 companies in Afghanistan have achieved self-sufficiency in various sectors.
In the interview, he highlighted the 150-megawatt Helmand power project as one of the largest and most significant facilities provided by the Ministry for industrialists.
The acting Minister added, “We have supported a previous project in Helmand in every way possible. Today, around 150 megawatts of electricity are generated from the Kajaki Dam, which meets the electricity needs of Helmand, its surrounding areas, and Kandahar.”
At the end of the exclusive interview, Nooruddin Azizi mentioned that Afghanistan currently trades with more than 80 countries worldwide, and despite the challenges and restrictions in place, trade continues normally. He called on neighboring countries, particularly Iran and Pakistan, to provide more facilities for Afghan exports.
2nd Uzbekistan Products Exhibition Held in Kabul
The second Uzbekistan Products Exhibition in Kabul has witnessed a strong turnout from citizens. Several Uzbekistani participants at the exhibition stated that visitors have shown significant interest in their products, and they hope to secure major agreements with the Afghan side.
At this exhibition, around 200 Uzbekistani traders from 30 sectors have showcased their products over a three-day period.
Asrar Bek, an industrialist, said, “Today, we have brought and displayed Uzbekistan’s products in Kabul. Our main goal is to attract the attention of the Afghan people to our products.”
Another industrialist, Rahmanov Dostanbek, added, “We are participating in this exhibition with the aim of securing major agreements with the Afghan side in the silk industry sector. The interest of visitors in Kabul towards our products is high. Our products are made 100% from natural silk, including fabrics, clothing, carpets, and other items.”
Aman Farogh Bek, another industrialist, mentioned, “In various sectors here, Uzbekistan’s products, including electrical appliances, construction materials, furniture, carpets, and other items, have been displayed. This exhibition helps to develop economic cooperation between the two sides.”
Several citizens consider such exhibitions beneficial for familiarizing themselves with foreign products, particularly those from Uzbekistan.
Nasrullah, a visitor, said, “This creates cultural unity between the two countries and leads to better mutual understanding.”
Maryam, another visitor, remarked, “We came to this exhibition to see the products and understand what kind of items Uzbekistan has brought and displayed for us.”
The head of the Afghanistan International Exhibition stated that about 200 Uzbekistani traders from 30 sectors have displayed various products, including machinery, health products, electronics, and carpets, over the three-day event.
Mohammad Saber Latifi, head of the Afghanistan International Exhibition, said, “Over 200 traders in 30 sectors and more than 80 of their various companies have participated here.”
This comes as the Uzbekistan Products Exhibition was inaugurated yesterday in Kabul with the presence of high-ranking officials of the De Facto Government, including the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, the Prime Minister, and high-ranking Uzbekistani delegations.
35 Investment, Trade Agreements Signed Between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan
The Economic Deputy of the Prime Minister’s Office announced in a press release the signing of 35 investment and trade agreements worth $2.5 billion between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan. According to the Economic Deputy, 12 agreements worth $1.4 billion were signed in the investment sector, and 23 agreements worth $1.1 billion were signed in the trade sector. These agreements were made in the presence of Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, Economic Deputy of the Prime Minister’s Office, and Uzbekistan’s Prime Minister, Abdulla Nigmatovich Aripov.
Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar stated, “Today is a very good opportunity to discuss the relations between the two countries and economic issues, especially railways, electricity, trade, transit, and visas.”
The Afghanistan-Uzbekistan trade meeting and the Uzbekistan Products Exhibition in Kabul were also held with the participation of the Ministers of Industry and Commerce and the private sectors of both countries. The Prime Minister of Uzbekistan, the Economic Deputy of the Prime Minister’s Office of the De Facto Government, the Ministers of Industry and Commerce, and delegations from both sides, including representatives of the private sectors from both countries, visited the products of Uzbekistan at the exhibition.
Nooruddin Azizi, the acting Minister of Industry and Commerce, highlighted the importance of bilateral cooperation between the two countries in trade, transit, and joint investments for the growth and development of both economies. Azizi urged Uzbek investors to invest in various sectors in Afghanistan, stating, “We assure our friend and brother country, Uzbekistan, that work on the implementation of the agreed points in the meetings has begun by both countries, and good progress and achievements have been made.”
The Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan, Laziz Kudratov, emphasized the need to strengthen cooperation between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan in the development of transportation, trade, transit, and bilateral investments in infrastructure projects. Kudratov noted that efforts to increase the trade volume between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan to three billion dollars are ongoing, with significant successes already achieved. He added, “In order to increase the volume of trade between our countries to three billion dollars, major plans have been set in motion. From October 1 of this year, trade agreements with various benefits between the two countries will practically commence.”
Afghanistan’s private sector expressed satisfaction with the expansion of bilateral cooperation between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan, acknowledging the great potential for developing trade between the two countries. At the end of the meeting, trade agreements were signed between Afghan traders and their Uzbek counterparts to strengthen cooperation and expand trade relations.
Kandahar textile factory resumes operations after 45-year hiatus
A textile factory in Kandahar has resumed operations after a 45-year hiatus, provincial officials confirmed on Thursday. The factory, which houses 3,000 machines, has reactivated 400 of them and has begun producing fabric.
The factory had been closed for 45 years due to war, but with its recent reopening, fabric is now being produced, and the clothing will be supplied to the Ministries of Public Health, National Defense, Interior, and the General Directorate of Intelligence.
Factory officials stated that if they secure contracts from these ministries, they could potentially bring 2,600 more machines back into operation, creating jobs for up to 12,000 people. Of the 400 machines currently in use, 64 are dedicated to processing cotton and have the capacity to produce large quantities of fabric.
Kandahar residents have welcomed the factory’s reactivation, noting that it will provide much-needed employment opportunities for locals. The textile factory, originally established in 1975, was one of many that closed down due to the outbreak of war.
Dozens of other factories faced a similar fate, but since regaining power in August 2021, the De Facto Government has been working to restart these facilities. One such example is the state-owned bread factory, Silo-e-Markazi (Central Silo), in Kabul, which resumed production two years ago after a 30-year hiatus.
$23 million pharmaceutical company inaugurated in Kabul
A new pharmaceutical company, with an investment of $20 million, was officially inaugurated on Thursday in Kabul. The ceremony was attended by key leaders of the Islamic Emirate, including Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar.
The newly launched company is expected to manufacture 50 different types of drugs once it becomes fully operational. Speaking at the launch ceremony, Baradar emphasized the critical importance of producing high-quality pharmaceuticals, stating that poor-quality drugs pose a risk to lives, whereas good-quality medicines can save them.
Baradar also highlighted that the establishment of more manufacturing companies like this one would significantly contribute to the growth of the country’s economy. He urged both domestic and international investors to contribute to the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan by starting new businesses. He assured investors that the environment is now conducive for investment and encouraged them to take advantage of the available opportunities.
Health officials at the event noted that there are currently 77 pharmaceutical companies operating in Afghanistan, and they are making serious efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in the pharmaceutical sector. The Islamic Emirate officials reiterated their full support for pharmaceutical companies but stressed that these manufacturers must produce drugs that meet international standards.
Surge in Intl Flights Over Afghanistan Amid Mideast Conflicts
Reuters has reported that Singapore Airlines and British Airways have significantly increased their flights over Afghanistan’s airspace due to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. According to the report, the number of flights passing through Afghanistan’s airspace in the second week of this month was more than seven times higher than during the same period last year.
Shakir Yaqubi, an economic expert, commented: “The resumption of flights not only boosts confidence in Afghanistan’s airspace but also increases the revenues earned from aviation. Additionally, Afghanistan could serve as an alternative route for airlines unable to pass through Middle Eastern airspace, providing a strategic advantage.”
The Chamber of Commerce and Investment echoed this sentiment, noting that the surge in flights through Afghan airspace would positively impact the country’s income. Khanjan Alokozai, a member of the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Commerce and Investment, emphasized: “The Islamic Emirate must work to build global trust in Afghanistan’s air and ground security, which is crucial for the country’s interests. The increased utilization of Afghan airspace not only brings significant revenue but is also vital for transit.”
The Ministry of Transport and Aviation has assured that all necessary facilities are in place to accommodate the rise in flights over the country’s airspace. Imamuddin Ahmadi, the spokesman for the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, stated: “Afghanistan’s airspace is fully prepared. Since the Islamic Emirate’s victory, flights have actively resumed, and thankfully, there have been no issues.”
In the past year, international airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Air Arabia, and Flydubai have also resumed their flights to Afghanistan.
Challenges and Progress in Empowering Female Entrepreneurs in Afghanistan
The Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industries informed Media that over 2,500 female entrepreneurs have obtained business licenses in the past three years, while more than 130,000 women are currently operating without licenses. Nazanin Ahmadzai, the spokesperson for the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industries, emphasized the chamber’s commitment to supporting female entrepreneurs.
“In general, women are active in nine sectors, including agriculture, livestock, health, industry, logistics, and services,” Ahmadzai stated.
Several women who have initiated small businesses over the past three years are urging the interim government to provide support across various sectors. Sediqa Tofan, a political science and international relations student in Kabul, has turned to work as a vendor in one of the city’s markets. She shared her experience, saying, “I started with very little capital, but with the support of women and friends, we managed to establish a business, secure a shop, and sell products made by Afghan women.”
Sanam, another shopkeeper, added, “If a girl from a family works, she can significantly reduce the burden on her father and address her own challenges.”
The lack of capital and markets are identified as the most significant challenges facing female vendors. These women, who work tirelessly from dawn to dusk to support their families, are calling on the interim government to assist small businesses. Najma Hussaini, another shopkeeper, noted, “When girls work, it helps reduce poverty within families and society.”
Previously, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) reported that it had supported 75,000 women-led businesses over the past two years.
Fragile but unbroken, Afghan glassblowers refuse to quit
HERAT, AFGHANISTAN — Seated in front of a searing furnace, Ghulam Sakhi Saifi teases forth sinews of molten blue glass — the guardian of an Afghan glassblowing trade refusing to break with tradition.
“This is our art, our inheritance. It has fed us for a long time,” he told AFP, resting from the work that has singed his knuckles and calloused his palms.
“We are trying to make sure it is not forgotten. If we do not pass it down, it will disappear from the whole world,” said Saifi, who guesses his age is around 50.
Glassblowing in Afghanistan’s western city of Herat is an ancient craft. Saifi says it has run in his family for about three centuries.
The last two furnaces in the windswept metropolis near the border with Iran are in his family home and a mud-and-straw shed with a holey roof in the shadow of Herat’s citadel.
‘Slow suffocation’
Saifi now lights one of the furnaces only once a month — eking out around $30 from his stock of cups, plates and candleholders after expensive wood for fuel, dyes and other raw materials are accounted for.
He attributes the dramatic downturn to the exodus of already low numbers of foreign customers during the COVID-19 pandemic followed by the 2021 Taliban takeover, which saw many diplomats and aid workers pack up and leave.
Cheaper Chinese-made imports have also dented demand.
“There have been times when we haven’t worked for three months — we sit at home forever,” he said.
“Locals have no use for these products, for the price they would first think to buy two loaves of bread for their children.”
But when the furnace is lit, Saifi is in his element.
With a crude kitchen knife and a blowpipe he pulls glowing globs of glass out of the mud furnace and inflates them into household wares.
Unlike in the past, when they used quartz, the glassblowers now use easier-to-find recycled bottles shattered into shards and superheated back into their liquid state.
The green and blue pieces cool into charmingly imperfect shapes, shot through with air bubbles, and are sold from clattering piles in shops in Herat and the capital Kabul for around $3 each.
Outside the shed it is already 36 degrees Celsius but stepping over the threshold is like being gripped by a sudden fever.
“Sometimes we really feel the heat, I think I am being slowly suffocated,” Saifi said. “But this is our inheritance, we are used to it.
“Today is a bad day, but maybe it will get better in the future. Maybe the day after tomorrow, we hope to God.”
‘Craft needs to endure’
A gaggle of boys and teenagers assists Saifi in his work, but it is growing hard to tempt the younger generation into a trade they view as a dead end.
His eldest son became an expert in the craft only to abandon it for migrant labor over the border in Iran.
Two cousins who learned to blow glass also saw no future and downed their tools.
His middle son, 18-year-old Naqibullah, vows he will continue the trade, though it’s not clear how.
Before the Taliban takeover there was still enough demand for three days of work a week — a distant prospect for the young man who shares shifts with his father on the rare occasion they light the furnaces.
“We hope that there is a future and that day by day things will get better,” Naqibullah said.
“Even if we’re not making much money the craft needs to endure,” he added. “The art of making things by hand needs to be preserved. We can’t let this skill disappear.”
Culture Ministry Launches 3 Documentaries of Afghan Heritage
Three documentaries were screened today (Tuesday, August 20) at the Afghan Film Directorate.
During the inauguration of the screenings, Atiqullah Azizi, Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture at the Ministry of Information and Culture, highlighted the significance of documentary filmmaking in the country, stating that these films can act as vital reflections of the nation’s history.
He also pledged that the Ministry of Information and Culture would continue to support the Afghan Film Directorate.
“If we don’t have these three documentaries being presented today, on what basis will our future generations judge in ten or twenty years?” he said.
Faiz Mohammad Jalali, the head of Afghan Film, said that since the Islamic Emirate’s return to power, there have been significant achievements in documentary production at Afghan Film. He stressed the need for increased film production in the country.
“Afghan Film and the National Theater Directorate, like other Emirate institutions, have initiated effective activities in a very short time, with improving quality day by day. If, like the past two years, we had documentaries like Bagram and Salang, then in the past ten or twelve months, we have achieved several artistic milestones, such as feature films, art festivals, and other documentaries,” Faiz Mohammad Jalali said.
The three documentaries are titled National Archive, Sangin, and Mother of Bombs.
Meanwhile, the directors of these films have called for financial support from the Islamic Emirate.
Mohammad Sharif Sarwari, the director of one of the documentaries, said: “At the very least, they should provide some funds to the directors or producers so we can create better and higher-quality films. Additionally, the equipment available at Afghan Film is not sufficient.”
The director, Mohammad Zarif Darwish, stated, “Two of my films were screened: one titled National Archive and the other Mother of Bombs. The National Archive film, as the name suggests, revolves around the National Archive and is divided into three sections.”
According to Atiqullah Azizi, these documentaries are set to be broadcast on various media channels after their screening and approval by Afghan Film.
Over a Thousand Artifacts Restored and Registered in Kandahar Museum
A team of archaeologists from the Ministry of Information and Culture has restored and registered more than a thousand historical artifacts in the Kandahar Museum over the past two months.
According to the archaeologists, these historical items belong to the Bactrian, Kushan, Bronze, and Islamic periods and will be displayed in the new building of the Kandahar Museum.
Ainuddin Sadaqat, the Director of Museums at the Ministry of Information and Culture, stated: “More than a thousand historical artifacts have been registered, cataloged, restored, identified, and recognized.”
Meanwhile, the residents of Kandahar, in addition to preserving historical artifacts, are also calling for the restoration and reconstruction of historical monuments.
Abdul Bari, a resident of Kandahar, said: “There are historical artifacts in other countries as well. They should not be destroyed, and they need to be given attention and preserved.”
Abdul Wali, another resident of Kandahar, stated: “Most of our historical places are very valuable and reflect the culture of our ancestors.”
Mandigak, Naranj Palace, Ahmad Shahi City, Nader Fortress, and Shamshir Mountain are considered important historical sites in Kandahar, with some of these monuments dating back thousands of years.
200-Year-Old Bagh-e-Ali Mardan Neighborhood Has 'Disappeared
The Bagh-e-Ali Mardan neighborhood is considered one of the ancient parts of Kabul, with a history dating back nearly two hundred years.
This area is located south of the Kabul River, extending from Pul-e-Khishti to Pule Qala Mahmoud Khan.
It borders the second part of Maiwand Road to the north and the Eidgah Mosque to the east. Unfortunately, there is no trace of the garden left today.
This neighborhood connected old alleys and bazaars such as Chaar Chata Bazaar, Qasab Kocha, Charmi Kocha, Burya Foroshi, Payan Chawk, and Reka Khana Bazaar.
Mir Abdul Qadeer, a resident of the Bagh-e-Ali Mardan area, talks about the history of this area: “Bagh-e Ali Mardan, named after Ali Mardan Khan, was a garden that Ali Mardan Khan built in this area. He lived in the middle of the garden and occasionally visited his farmers.”
Another resident, Esmail, said: “In the past, this place was all soil, but now it has turned into an area with high-rise buildings. The garden had only one gate.”
The covered alleys and old houses in this area, each over a hundred years old, bear witness to the rich history of this place. According to residents, one of these old houses was the residence of Ali Mardan Khan.
Zalmai, a resident of Bagh-e-Ali Mardan, describes the area: “These houses were all made of mud and straw, and our people had a unique culture and urban lifestyle.”
Mohammad Zubair says: “The house you are in now is a very old house. Ali Mardan Khan lived in this house, and if anyone made a joke, he would imprison them in a cell he had in the house.”
Ali Mardan Khan was once the governor of Kabul and was highly regarded by the people. He had a great interest in constructing Kabul city, and Chaar Chata Bazaar was also built during his time.
Jahan Nama Palace in Samangan at Risk of 'Collapse'
The Jahan Nama or Jahan Ara Palace in the Khulm district of Samangan province is at risk of collapse, locals say.
Some local residents and visitors said they consider this palace to be one of the most beautiful historical sites in the country and are calling on officials to restore it.
Mohammad Ishaq, a resident of Samangan, said: “This is a very beautiful garden, and many tourists come to see it. We request that the Islamic Emirate come and inspects the condition of this garden closely and pay attention to its restoration because people from all provinces come to visit it.”
Hasibullah, a resident of Balkh province, said: “This garden is at risk of destruction and decay. Our request to the Islamic Emirate is that this garden should be restored.”
Abdul Rasool, a resident of Mazar-e-Sharif city, said: “This garden needs some maintenance and restoration. I ask the government to address this issue.”
The Samangan Department of Information and Culture said efforts are underway to restore this historical site.
Ferozuddin Munib, the head of Samangan’s Department of Information and Culture, told Media: “Some time ago, I requested technical engineers from the Ministry of Information and Culture. They said with us for about 22 days and worked in the Jahan Nama garden. They completed the assessment and tried to restore it to its original standards.”
Throughout history, the Jahan Nama garden and palace have been used as a state guest house, a dormitory for students, and even offices for government departments and institutions. However, after 2004, when the palace was handed over to the Ministry of Information and Culture, it became a tourist attraction, and a large number of citizens visit it daily.
20 Historical, Archeological Sites Registered in Parwan This Year
The Directorate of Information and Culture of Parwan has announced the identification and registration of 20 historical sites and artifacts in this province over the past year.
According to the directorate, the number of domestic and foreign visitors to the historical sites of this province has also increased.
Officials said that previously 69 historical sites were identified in Parwan province.
Atiqullah Safi, the head of culture and tourism at the Directorate of Information and Culture of Parwan, said: “The Directorate of Information and Culture of Parwan has registered 89 historical and archaeological sites, which has increased from 69 to 89 with the arrival of the Islamic Emirate. We have also discovered new areas.”
Several Parwan residents are urging officials to properly preserve the historical and archaeological sites of this province.
Hekmatullah Mirzada, a university professor, said: “Historical artifacts and monuments in any place and in any country form valuable symbols of civilization. Therefore, the existence of historical artifacts in Parwan highlights the ancient and historical significance of this province.”
Hanif Ahmadi, a resident of Parwan, said: “It is the government’s duty to work on preserving historical monuments.”
Abdul Mahfouz, another resident of Parwan, said, “Currently, the historical monuments in Afghanistan are being destroyed due to natural events, such as rain and earthquakes, and the government must prevent this.”
The Stupa-e-Top Dara in the suburbs of Charikar city and the royal palace of Jabal Saraj are among the most famous historical sites in Parwan province, which are visited by more tourists and visitors throughout the year.
Chahar Asyab District: A Historical Hub in Kabul
Chahar Asyab district, one of the historical districts of Kabul, is located 11 kilometers south of the capital and is considered the most populous district of this province.
According to Kabul residents, this area was not originally a district, but the government later established it as Chahar Asyab.
Malik Shah Mahmood, a resident of Chahar Asyab district in Kabul, said: “Chahar Asyab district is one of the most populated districts in Kabul, with a population of over 150,000 and more than 123 small and large villages.”
Chehr Asyab has several villages, including Chehel Dokhtaran, Elyas Khil, Tangi Seydan, Rahmat Abad, Alokhil, Deh Kalan, Laghman village, Siah Joy, Satar Khan, Suriyond, Kate Sang, Miyakhil, Payindeh Khil, Haji Khil, Charsuq village, Ahangarn, Qala Abdul Raoof, Moein Khil, Seyd Khil, Qashlan, Abbas Qoli, Qala Kohna, Dashtak Alia Gurgab, Tajikia village, Golzar village, Qala Naeem, Qala Rashid, and several other villages in Chahar Asyab district of Kabul.
Haji Aziz Ahmad, a resident of Chahar Asyab district in Kabul, said: “It wasn’t called a district. In the passage where the government of Chardeh was located, this area was also under the same Chardeh.”
In Chahar Asyab, there is also an old mill that has given the area its name.
Abdul Latif, the caretaker of this mill, after unlocking it, told Media the historical stories related to Chahar Asyab and the reason behind its name.
Abdul Latif told Media: “This entire plain and mountain existed before, and the people who lived here at that time gathered together. A man named Haji Abdul Hai, a very wise elder in this area, told me the history of naming this place. It is not known to others, but I know. Well, when they gathered together, they said, ‘We have made four mills out of our necessities,’ so they named it accordingly.”
There are also local narratives that suggest two brothers named Ainuddin Khan and Hesamuddin Khan, who served as Prime Minister and Minister of Finance during the monarchy, lived in this area.
In Qala Naeem village of this district, there is a shrine named Bibi Kouftepa, about which the local residents have the following tales.
A resident of Chahar Asyab district said: “This shrine is named Bibi Kouftepe. She was a very brave and honorable woman.”
Chahar Asyab district is located 11 kilometers south of Kabul city.
Destruction of Musical Instruments By Taliban Is An Attack on Afghan Culture, Says ANIM
The Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM) has condemned the destruction of over 21,000 musical instruments by the Taliban as an assault on Afghanistan’s cultural heritage.
The institute stated that the destruction of these instruments is not only an assault on Afghanistan’s musical culture, but also a violation of human rights, particularly the right to artistic and cultural expression.
In a statement, the Afghanistan National Institute of Music strongly condemned the Taliban’s actions, highlighting that music has been an integral part of Afghan society for centuries, fostering community bonds, peace, and mutual understanding.
The statement described the destruction of the instruments as another devastating blow by the Taliban, who, since their return to power, have silenced the voices of artists, composers, and cultural figures through their “brutal” rule.
Ahmad Sarmast, the director of the Afghanistan National Institute of Music, expressed his anger and sadness over the Taliban’s destruction of the instruments.
Sarmast said that while the Taliban have tried to silence the voice of the Afghan people, music cannot be erased from the hearts and minds of the people.
The Afghanistan National Institute of Music called on the international community, human rights organisations, and cultural institutions to condemn the Taliban’s actions of “cultural destruction” and to support the preservation of Afghan music.
Last week, officials from the Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice announced that the ministry had destroyed 21,328 musical instruments across Afghanistan over the past year.
The Taliban consider playing, listening to, and producing music as “haram” [forbidden].
Afghans celebrate U-17 football victory, a rare moment of joy
The triumph of Afghanistan’s Under-17 national football team in the 2024 CAFA Championship has sparked widespread celebrations across the country, marking a rare moment of joy for a nation beset by challenges.
Afghanistan secured a 1-0 victory in the final against Uzbekistan, with the decisive goal scored by Azamuddin Hajizadeh in the 27th minute of the first half. The team’s remarkable performance throughout the tournament, which saw them remain undefeated without conceding a single goal, has been hailed as a significant achievement.
“This sweet victory belongs to all the people of Afghanistan and Muslims around the world,” said head coach Elias Manochehr. “Our team played professional football, and defeating the best teams was not an easy task, but these brave men of Afghanistan succeeded.”
Manochehr also extended his gratitude to the Afghanistan Football Federation and the National Olympic Committee for their support.
The victory, the first ever for Afghanistan’s U-17 team in the Central Asian Football Association (CAFA) Championship, was met with jubilation by the players, coaching staff, and Afghan citizens alike. Celebrations included dancing and expressions of national pride, with many viewing the win as a beacon of hope during difficult times.
Prominent political figures, including former presidents Hamid Karzai and Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, and Atta Mohammad Noor, leader of the Jamiat-e Islami (Noor faction), were quick to congratulate the team.
“The victory of Afghanistan’s U-17 team is a significant achievement not just for the football team but for the grief-stricken and suffering people of Afghanistan,” said Maryam, an Afghan citizen who requested anonymity for safety reasons. “We hope these victories continue, and we also witness the participation of girls in future tournaments like the Asian Cup and the World Cup.”
Asif Hassanzai, a resident of Kabul, echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of such victories in bringing a rare sense of joy to the nation. “In these circumstances, sports are the only thing that brings us joy,” he said.
Azamuddin Hajizadeh was named the best player of the tournament, while Afghanistan’s goalkeeper, Hamid Amiri, earned the title of best goalkeeper.
The CAFA Championship, held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, from August 17 to 24, featured teams from Afghanistan, Iran, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Uzbekistan and Tajikistan finished second and third, respectively.
Amo Sharks clinch first-ever Kabul cricket league title
The Amo Sharks claimed their first-ever Shpageeza Cricket League title after defeating the Band-e-Amir Dragons by seven wickets in the final match of the 2024 tournament in Kabul on Saturday.
In a closely contested match, the Dragons set a challenging target of 179 runs, losing only one wicket. Sediqullah Attal led the Dragons with 75 runs off 57 deliveries, while skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi added an impressive 78 runs.
The Amo Sharks, however, successfully chased down the target, losing seven wickets along the way and securing their first championship in the history of the Shpageeza Cricket League.
The 2024 Shpageeza League, which began on August 12, featured five teams: Amo Sharks, Band-e-Amir Dragons, Boost Defenders, Speenghar Tigers, and Mis-e-Ainak Knights. The tournament drew attention from cricket fans across the region, with the Afghanistan Cricket Board inviting international commentators Roshan Abeysinghe from Sri Lanka and Devender Kumar from India to cover the event.
The Sharks’ victory marks a significant milestone in Afghan cricket, highlighting the growing talent and competitive spirit within the country’s domestic league.
Afghanistan U-17 team wins CAFA 2024 Championship
Afghanistan’s under-17 football team claimed the 2024 CAFA Championship title after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Uzbekistan in the final match on Saturday.
According to the Afghanistan Football Federation, which is currently under Taliban control, the young Afghan team secured the championship with three wins and three clean sheets throughout the tournament, showcasing their strong defensive capabilities.
Afghanistan advanced to the final by defeating Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, setting the stage for their decisive match against Uzbekistan. The narrow 1-0 victory secured Afghanistan’s first-place finish, marking a significant achievement for the team in the Central Asian Football Association (CAFA) league.
The victory is a bright spot for Afghanistan amid challenging circumstances, demonstrating the resilience and talent of its young athletes on the regional stage.
Afghan taekwondo athletes return from China with three gold medals
Two Afghan taekwondo athletes returned home on Tuesday with three gold medals from the Asian Championship Cup held in China.
The competition, which took place in Yunnan, China, featured 254 athletes from five Central Asian countries.
Samir Rahmani claimed the gold medal in the 58 kg weight category, defeating his Chinese opponent. Rahmani distinguished himself by winning two gold medals in the tournament.
In the 62 kg weight category, Ali Akbar Rezaei also secured a gold medal by overcoming his Chinese competitor.
Officials from the National Olympic Committee and the Physical Education and Sports Directorate reported that the tournament lasted three days.
Afghan athelete Manizha Talash disqualified from 2024 Paris Olympics for protest banner
Manizha Talash, an Afghan female athlete competing under the refugee team at the 2024 Paris Olympics, has been disqualified from the preliminary breakdance competition for displaying a protest banner that read “Free Afghan Women.”
The incident occurred during her match against a Dutch opponent on Friday. Under Olympic rules, political statements and slogans are prohibited within competition venues and at Olympic sites. As a result of her protest, the 21-year-old athlete was disqualified from further participation in the Games.
Talash, who lost to her opponent from the Netherlands, would not have advanced in the competition even without the disqualification.
A total of six athletes were representing Afghanistan at the Paris Olympics, though five, including Talash, competed as part of the refugee teams.
Afghanistan Grabs 2nd Place At International Muay Thai Competition in Iran
With six gold, two silver, and four bronze medals, Afghanistan’s national Muay Thai team, secured the runner-up position at the international Muay Thai competition in Iran.
Afghan athletes also won the golden belt award and a trophy for the most technical team at the event.
Two teams representing Afghanistan participated in these competitions which concluded on Wednesday.
Mashaal Islamzai (51 kg); Jamil Ibrahimi (60 kg); Arash Ahmadi (57 kg); Yasin Mirzaei (48 kg) and Sayed Jamal Sahar (67 kg) won gold medals in their respective weight categories while Samiullah Alipoor and Reza Rezai secured the silver medals in the weight category of 67 kg and 54 kg respectively.
Apart from them, Shokrullah Yazdani (63.5 kg), Arif Salehi (75 kg), Hasan Sultani (75 kg), and Ali Sina Mohammadi (48 kg) clutched the bronze medals in their respective weight categories.
Afghanistan also managed to secure a gold and a silver medal in women’s competitions.
Iran secured the pole position in the competitions while Iraq placed third.
The competitions were held in Gilan in Iran with the participation of athletes from 13 countries. An Afghan immigrant team won 11 medals from these competitions too.
Female athletes in Afghanistan endure harsh conditions under Taliban rule
Female athletes in Afghanistan are facing increasingly dire conditions under the Taliban, with many reporting that they are no longer allowed to engage in sports.
The Taliban’s restrictions have forced some athletes to contemplate leaving the country as they struggle with the oppressive environment and lack of opportunities.
Bushra, a former gym owner and coach in Mazar-e-Sharif, is among those who have been deeply affected by the Taliban’s policies. She shared her story with Amu, describing how the uncertainty about the future has driven many female athletes into exile. “I studied physical education in Iran and ran two sports clubs in Mazar-e-Sharif,” Bushra explained. “I trained hundreds of students in my gyms before the Taliban’s ban on women’s sports. But with the Taliban’s rise to power and the closure of sports clubs, I have been unemployed for two years.”
The situation has become so untenable that Bushra is now planning to leave Afghanistan. “The dire conditions, lack of money, and unemployment are no longer endurable. We have sold everything in the house, and now we are planning to go to Iran,” she said, highlighting the desperation felt by many female athletes who see no future under Taliban rule.
The plight of female athletes in Afghanistan has not gone unnoticed by the international community. In a recent statement, United Nations experts called on national and international sports organizations to take decisive action against the Taliban’s ban on women and girls participating in sports. The experts described the prohibition as part of the regime’s “institutionalized” system of gender discrimination and oppression, warning that it “may amount to crimes against humanity.”
Female athletes have expressed their deep frustration and sense of injustice over being denied the right to participate in sports. “Sports are essential for the health and well-being of every person, providing a foundation for a healthy life,” said Farzana Khaleqi, an athlete who has been directly affected by the Taliban’s policies. “Unfortunately, the Taliban imposed restrictions on women and girls, prohibiting them from engaging in sports, and have barred us from participating in national and international competitions.”
The Taliban has been clear about its stance on female sports. In July, Atal Mashwani, the spokesman for the Taliban-run sports directorate, confirmed that girls’ sports have been halted. “Only three athletes are representing Afghanistan,” Mashwani said, referring to male competitors. “Currently, in Afghanistan, girls’ sports have been stopped. When girls’ sport isn’t practiced, how can they go on the national team?”
The cessation of female sports in Afghanistan is part of a broader effort by the Taliban to marginalize women and girls in all aspects of society. With the closure of schools, universities, and sports clubs, many women are left with few options and little hope for the future. The Taliban’s actions have not only stripped women of their right to engage in sports but have also further deepened the social and economic divide in Afghanistan, leaving the future of female athletes in the country uncertain and bleak.
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