UN Supports Deported Migrants in Launching Small Businesses

Arafat Jamal, the UNHCR representative in Afghanistan, announced during his visit to Paktia that the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) is assisting newly returned Afghan migrants in starting small-scale businesses.

In an interview , Arafat Jamal also emphasized that efforts are being made to attract support from other organizations for these initiatives.

As part of this support program, each returning family may receive up to $1,000 in assistance.

The UNHCR representative stated: “No one can build a future without work. This is a challenge not only faced by recently deported migrants but by the entire Afghan population. We are encouraging donors and investors to provide financial backing for small businesses.”

Shirzaman, a 45-year-old resident of Gardez, who was deported from Pakistan with his nine-member family, used to work in the heater-manufacturing business. He is now seeking support to restart his work. He told : “My request is to be provided with professional tools so I can both train others and earn an income for myself. At the moment, I have neither tools nor equipment, and I need help in this regard.”

Mirajan, another deported migrant from Pakistan, said: “We are unfamiliar with this place and don’t know what to do. If we are given job opportunities, it would be very helpful.”

The Department of Labor and Social Affairs in Paktia announced ongoing efforts, in collaboration with partner organizations, to create job opportunities for the recently deported migrants.

Etebar Bismal, head of the Labor Department in Paktia, told: “We offer vocational training to individuals aged 15 to 45 through vocational training centers and private institutions. Additionally, those who qualify for teaching positions are employed at these centers.”

The UNHCR representative in Afghanistan also urged Iran and Pakistan to treat Afghan migrants humanely and to collaborate on ensuring the gradual and organized repatriation of migrants.