Hope and Socks: Empowering Herat's Disabled Workforce

In Herat, Afghanistan, a new sock production workshop provides employment for disabled individuals, many of whom were affected by war and polio. Founded by Mohammad Amiri, the initiative employs 50 disabled workers, including Shahabuddin, offering them a chance at financial independence amidst tough economic conditions and competition from imports.

In the heart of Herat, Afghanistan, a unique sock production workshop is bringing new hope and employment opportunities to the disabled community. Shahabuddin, a double amputee due to a roadside bomb, finds satisfaction in his work at the factory after years of unemployment.

This initiative is the vision of Mohammad Amiri, a former grocery shop worker also disabled by polio. Amiri's workshop, funded by people with disabilities, employs around 50 disabled individuals. They produce four types of socks, providing a much-needed income while facing competition from cheap textile imports.

Amiri dreams of expanding his workforce to 2,000 and hopes for government contracts to supply socks to Afghan security forces. His efforts highlight the urgent need to integrate persons with disabilities into key economic activities, underscoring the challenges in Afghanistan's health and economic sectors.

(With inputs from agencies.)