The World Bank has approved a new grant to expand economic opportunities for women in Tajikistan, aiming to benefit thousands of individuals across rural and urban communities. The initiative focuses on increasing access to jobs, financial services, and entrepreneurship opportunities, particularly for economically vulnerable women, while also supporting unemployed men and broader community development.
The Tajikistan Women’s Economic Empowerment Project is expected to generate thousands of new jobs and support hundreds of women-led businesses through targeted financial assistance. Funded by the Japan Social Development Fund, the project seeks to address existing barriers that limit women’s participation in business and economic activities, thereby contributing to inclusive economic growth.
The programme will provide training, skills development, and improved access to finance for aspiring women entrepreneurs and existing businesses. It will focus on high-potential sectors such as tourism, agribusiness, digital technologies, renewable energy, and climate-smart agriculture, helping women enter more sustainable and higher-value economic activities.
In addition to training, the project will offer grants, mentoring, and advisory services to support business development and expansion. By strengthening women-led enterprises and micro, small, and medium-sized businesses, the initiative aims to create new income opportunities, stimulate local economies, and promote private sector growth.
The project is also expected to have wider social benefits beyond direct participants. By improving income levels and employment opportunities, it will contribute to better household food security and support broader poverty reduction efforts across the country.
Implementation will be carried out by government institutions in collaboration with key national and international partners. The project will engage organizations such as the International Finance Corporation and the Japan International Cooperation Agency to strengthen private sector involvement and promote rural entrepreneurship initiatives.
Overall, this initiative represents a significant step toward empowering women economically in Tajikistan. By improving access to finance, building entrepreneurial capacity, and fostering inclusive growth, the project aims to create a more dynamic and resilient economy while ensuring that women play a central role in the country’s development.
