As Afghan-U.S. relations continue to deteriorate, it's hard to imagine that the two nations can find political common ground. But the language of business is a common one. Stronger business (coupled with innovation) is a powerful driver for peace.
For Afghanistan, female entrepreneurs may be critical to drive this peaceful future. In a study recently conducted by the Peace Dividend Trust (PDT), which works with Afghan entrepreneurs to match them to local market opportunities, out of the 7,000 Afghan companies in its national database only 242 are owned by women. However, three to five new women-owned ventures join its registry each month. According to PDT's Executive Director, Scott Gilmore, "The untold story in Afghanistan is the rise of female entrepreneurs. They are turning into a powerful force for growth and stability."
For Afghanistan, female entrepreneurs may be critical to drive this peaceful future. In a study recently conducted by the Peace Dividend Trust (PDT), which works with Afghan entrepreneurs to match them to local market opportunities, out of the 7,000 Afghan companies in its national database only 242 are owned by women. However, three to five new women-owned ventures join its registry each month. According to PDT's Executive Director, Scott Gilmore, "The untold story in Afghanistan is the rise of female entrepreneurs. They are turning into a powerful force for growth and stability."
Nonprofits like Bpeace and Peace Dividend Trust are at the forefront of demonstrating the positive outcomes business can produce in conflict-affected communities like Afghanistan. As Maloney says, "Jobs are the bridge to everything. A family's ability to feed their children, send them to school, and propel their community up the path to peace and prosperity. It's business that builds that bridge."
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