Project plants seeds of hope in Azerbaijan

The project aimed to foster economic regeneration and create jobs in 30 communities of the Dashkasan, Goranboy and Samukh districts of Azerbaijan. Throughout its three years of existence, the project improved the livelihood of some 1,000 women. 30 production groups, each involving around 30 women, started in each community. These women not only developed their potential, but they also acted as mentors to others—four to five group managers supported members of their community to improve their relevant business skills.

“I improved my skills as a confectioner thanks to my group members, and I am now helping other women who supply fresh food to the school canteen in their village,” says Ms. Gulhar Ibrahimova, a project participant from Nizami village in Goranboy.

School closures due to COVID-19 affected their sales, says Gulhar, but they look forward to improved business in the long run.

Moreover, SEEDS provided the necessary equipment and materials to support joint and individual businesses. Around 60 young community members attended vocational courses to specialize in their field of interest. As a result, these groups started businesses such as poultry raising, pastry and confectionery making, hairdressing, tailoring and carpet weaving in their communities.

In addition to the occupational component, the initiative raised awareness on topics like gender equality, self-esteem, parental skills, childcare and child psychology and adverse impacts of domestic violence. It also provided individual consultations to group members and their children. Moreover, women and their children have now better access to important health and social services, such as polyclinics, employment and rehabilitation centers.

The project planted the first seeds for a long-term livelihood shift for women, who will then carry the torch further to strengthen the community and prosperity in their villages.