Women as drivers of economic recovery and resilience in Anbar: Turning their ideas into businesses
Years of conflict significantly influenced Anbar's economy and the resilience of its communities, but slowly Anbar’s society is working to rebuild what they have lost. Notably, women play an important role in driving this change. GIZ supports women and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Anbar through the establishment of training centers, providing sustainable business financing (grants, loans) and trainings.
Following the occupation by the so-called Islamic State, economic recovery and community resilience in Anbar is challenged. While the scars of war have deeply impacted the region's economy and social fabric, a gradual people driven transformation is also happening. By unleashing their potential and lifting their communities up, the women of Anbar are major drivers of economic recovery and resilience.
Since 2019, GIZ, on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development, has supported the people of Anbar with two major Transitional Development Assistance Programmes to rebuild and foster economic as well as peaceful development. This includes supporting MSMEs to start up, scale up and reactivate their businesses through business grants and loans as well as non-financial support such as training, coaching and mentoring.
Three Siraj Centers, conveniently located in the urban centers of Heet, Ramadi, and Falluja, have been opened by the Near East Foundation with support of GIZ and function as one stop shops and hubs that provide comprehensive business development support to MSMEs in Anbar. Siraj centers make mentoring, training and other essential resources available, ensuring that businesses have the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the competitive market.
Through strategic collaboration with governmental and non-governmental partners, these centers provide essential support, fostering economic growth and resilience in conflict-affected areas. With their tailored initiatives and comprehensive services, they serve as catalysts for positive change, laying the groundwork for a prosperous future in Anbar province. So far, 600 women from Anbar have received business development loans to foster entrepreneurship and income generation in the livestock industry. Additionally, 500 MSMEs get grant funding, which is critical for business growth and contributes to Anbar's economic stability.
GIZ remains committed to Anbar's sustainable development through various future initiatives. These initiatives are important for inclusive economic and social recovery allowing the people of Anbar to bring out their potential, sustain development in their communities, and build a resilient future that extends beyond individual projects.
