A two-day exhibition of handmade products was held by displaced women in the province of Herat.

Around 40 women and girls who make handmade products under the UN High Commissioner for Refugees participated in the exhibition.

The exhibition was held to draw attention to and find a market for the handmade products of women and girls.

“They will find a market for their products. They will find goods… they are to stand on their own feet, and this is what the program is for,” said Yahya Ahmadzai, an organizer of the exhibition.

The handmade products displayed include carpets, miniature art pieces and paintings.
“I hope the women will be supported more through holding these exhibitions… I hope our problems will be solved,” said Malina Hotak, a participant.

Many of these women in an interview with TOLOnews called on the interim government to help them.

“We have been weaving for the past three months and then when we receive money, we should pay for our expenses. I hope to make further progress,” said Anisa Rasuli, a participant.

“We are the breadwinners for the family and while we do not have access to work, what should we do then?” said Shireen Gul Obaidi, a participant.

The organizers of the exhibition said that efforts are underway to pave the way for the export of the products.