په هرات کې افغان ښځې خپل لاسي صنایع او کاروبارونه نندارې ته وړاندې کوي

The citadel of Herat, a fortress that is an enduring symbol of Afghan history and architecture, and for three days, the venue for an exhibition of traditional Afghan artworks and products, from carpets to ceramics, paintings and felt work to wooden pieces,

many handmade all by women.

We must preserve these cultural treasures and work on them professionally and systematically so they can bring economic and professional stability and create employment opportunities for other women.

Since regaining control of the country in 2021, the Taliban government has barred most girls and women from attending school.

They're not allowed to work in certain sectors and industries, including beauty salons, and the government is run exclusively by men.

Women find employment where they can. In Afghanistan's booming saffron industry, for example, where they make up majority of the workers.

But these jobs are few and far between, which is why more and more women have taken matters into their own hands, establishing their own businesses to reclaim their place in society.

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry for Women in Herat says there have been more than 1,000 women-led enterprises in the last three years.

It can be said that the Women's Chamber of Industry and Commerce has been a window of hope for Afghan women during this time.

We have been able to carry out activities that support their growth and progress.

Many of the businesses employ women as well, and this event aims to connect the women with people who can give them access to a broader market.

This current exhibition has truly changed our view of Afghan women.

In reality, their progress and participation are increasing.

If it continues the way we saw today, we expect that women in Afghanistan will grow and engage in handicraft work, not only within Afghanistan, but also showcase their work outside the country.

Many here say it is a small step towards restoring women's rights in Afghanistan, but a step nonetheless, and necessary to keep their hopes alive.

Barnaby Mayo, Al Jazeera. Don't miss out, get the full picture.

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