Empowering Afghan women: UN Women and Japan partner to strengthen resilience and livelihoods

Afghan woman cultivates her agricultural plot. Photo: UN Women/Sayed Habib Bedil

Kabul, Afghanistan — UN Women Afghanistan and the Government of Japan are proud to announce a critical initiative that invests in strengthening Afghan women’s resilience, empowerment and leadership.

Launching in March 2025, this one-year project will directly support 3,700 women and positively impact the lives of over 25,000 people, with a focus on improving women’s livelihoods and capacity to respond to climate-related risks. From equipping farmers with climate-smart tools to enhancing women’s access to finance and technology, the initiative will empower Afghan women to create sustainable futures for themselves and their communities.

Afghan women, and women-headed households in particular, often carry the heaviest burden of economic hardship and climate-induced shocks. Through this partnership, UN Women and the Government of Japan aim to strengthen their leadership in building resilient communities. This programme combines humanitarian assistance with opportunities for long-term growth through support to women-only safe spaces, markets, business centres and cooperatives.

“Afghan women are leaders in resilience and recovery. With support from Japan, this initiative provides them with the tools, resources and opportunities to rebuild their lives and strengthen their communities. Investing in Afghan women is key to a more sustainable and resilient future for all," says Alison Davidian, UN Women Special Representative for Afghanistan.