PROVINCIAL RECONSTRUCTION TEAM
International Women's Day Celebrations Highlight Opportunities for Afghan Women: Throughout Afghanistan, communities and local government officials came together in early March to celebrate International Women's Day. The celebrations attracted thousands of women and their families and reinforced the credibility of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in fostering women's empowerment and providing a safe venue for such public events. The U.S. Government is committed to fostering opportunities for women, from education to community leadership. Celebrations in some of Afghanistan's most insecure provinces demonstrate that the efforts of USAID and the Afghan Government are providing a better environment for women.
Hilmand - A year ago, barely 50 women dared attend an International Women's Day celebration in the contested southern province of Hilmand. However, if the celebration honoring this year's Women's Day is any indication, hope is beginning to trump fear. Approximately 600 women attended a celebration in Lashkar Gah, organized by the Department of Women's Affairs with support from USAID. The governor of Hilmand encouraged the participation of women in leadership roles, and media covered the event, demonstrating that the Afghan Government was able to provide a safe, secure environment to celebrate the important role of women in Afghan society.
Kandahar - More than 600 women braved security threats to celebrate International Women's Day in Kandahar city. The governor, parliament and provincial council members, members of civil society and international organizations, the director of Women's Affairs, media representatives, teachers, and students actively participated in the event. The celebration included songs and speeches that highlighted women's achievements and the challenges they face. The governor of Kandahar highlighted his support for women in his speech, saying, "I encourage more meetings to be held on women's issues and the challenges they face in our society." The Department of Women's Affairs organized the event in cooperation with the Afghanistan Independent Human Right Commission, UNAMA, and USAID.
Uruzgan - Despite serious security concerns, USAID supported two Women's Day events in Tirin Kot. On March 10, approximately 400 women attended the larger of the two events. All participants received gift bags that included health and hygiene items, and an additional 100 gift bags will be distributed to women unable to attend.