Under the theme “Rights, Equality, and Empowerment for All Women and Girls”, the world celebrates International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025. This day honors the achievements of women and highlights progress toward gender equality. Among the notable initiatives marking this occasion is the “Fishery Harbour Rehabilitation and Value Chain Development in Aden Project” (AFH) project, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the local partner Ghadaq for Development, a pioneering effort aimed at empowering women in the fishing community of Aden.
The project focuses on creating sustainable job opportunities for women and youth, with a strong emphasis on gender equality. Women constitute 50% of the beneficiaries, reflecting the project’s commitment to empowering women throughout its stages, from planning to implementation. Tailored training programs were designed to meet the needs of women, with 60 women participating in seafood preparation training, 20 in food and fish product manufacturing, and another 20 in crafting accessories from seashells. Additionally, participants received intensive training in entrepreneurship, equipping them with skills to draft business plans, launch projects, and manage operations effectively.
Beyond training, the project provided financial grants to women, enabling them to establish and manage their own businesses, thereby enhancing their economic independence. It also encouraged women’s active participation in leadership and decision-making within their communities, strengthening their societal roles and driving positive change.
The impact of the AFH project goes beyond improving women’s economic conditions; it also enhances their role in community development, contributing to inclusive and sustainable growth. On this International Women’s Day, the project reaffirms its commitment to supporting and empowering women, calling for collective efforts to build a brighter and more equitable future for all.