By Nadir Ali Shah

In village Baho Jhatial, UC Mashoori, Taluka Bakrani, District Larkana, 57-year-old Rehiman Khatoon is quietly redefining what rural women can achieve when given access to opportunity. A member of CO Roshan (PSC-23) under LSO Soojhro, she lives with her husband, Sahib Khan Jhatial (Aged 58), their son Babar Ali (Aged 23), and their daughter Sawera (Aged 9). With no agricultural land but ownership of their modest home, the family depends entirely on small enterprise for survival.

Rehiman’s journey with the Community Investment Fund (CIF), previously funded and supported by European Union (EU), Government of Sindh and RSPN), began with a PKR 23,000 interest-free loan from SRSO, which she invested in goats and repaid successfully. Encouraged, she took a second CIF loan of PKR 30,000 for livestock, again completing repayment on time. These early cycles built her financial confidence and credit discipline.

Community Investment Funds (CIFs), commonly implemented through community institutions under rural support and social mobilization programs, represent a group-managed, interest-free microfinance approach designed to reach low-income households excluded from formal banking. Evidence from community-driven development models shows that when financial services are paired with local institutions and participatory planning, they can strengthen repayment culture, social accountability, and women’s economic roles.

When Rahiman developed her third Micro Investment Plan, she sought PKR 45,000 from CIF with a new vision. Rather than livestock, she opened a small neighborhood vegetable, fruit, and tuck shop, selling daily essentials and low-cost snacks for children. The decision was not universally welcomed. Some community members doubted that a woman could run such a business. Rehiman ignored the criticism and focused on the work.

Research on microfinance highlights that access to small, well-timed loans enables poor households to diversify income sources and manage risk, especially when funds are used for microenterprises rather than consumption. Studies also show that women’s control over productive assets and income is strongly associated with improved household welfare and children’s wellbeing.

Her shop operates through family teamwork. Her husband manages the stall from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., after which Rehiman takes over until closing at 7:00 p.m. He then travels to Hatri Bazaar and the vegetable market to restock produce and goods. Their son also assists with shop duties and procurement. The shop is located near to their home, so there is no rent burden. On average, the shop holds stock worth around PKR 100,000. Daily sales of vegetables, fruits, and small food items range between PKR 2,000 and 3,000, generating daily savings of about PKR 700 to 800.

Despite both spouses managing blood pressure conditions, they continue working consistently. The village lacks a gas connection, and the household relies on solar panels for electricity. Rehiman repaid the full PKR 45,000 CIF loan on time through her Village Organization (VO), further strengthening her standing as a reliable borrower.

In Pakistan, rural support programs using community institutions and revolving funds have demonstrated that collective structures such as Community Organizations and Village Organizations help maintain transparency and peer accountability, supporting high repayment rates and local ownership. The broader development literature further links community-managed funds with empowerment outcomes, particularly where women participate in decision-making and enterprise activities.

Rahiman now plans to take a small additional interest-free loan of around PKR 100,000 to purchase a freezer and add cold drinks to her product line. Her husband is also exploring an Enterprise Development (ED) loan to help their son open a spare parts shop at Otha Chowk (Larkana), creating a stable income source as the young man prepares for marriage.

Smiling, Rehiman says, “If you have a dream and God gives you a chance, do not step back. Move forward with courage and confidence.” She credits SRSO, her CO, and VO for guidance and support, describing them as partners in her family’s fight against poverty. Today, she stands as a practical example of women’s economic participation, not through slogans, but through steady daily work.

Rehiman Khatoon’s journey shows that poverty reduction in rural areas is not driven by large interventions alone, but by timely, practical support that builds confidence step by step. Her progress from small livestock investments to running a stable household shop reflects how interest-free community finance, when combined with social organization and family cooperation, can create lasting change. Each loan cycle did more than increase her income. It strengthened her skills, improved her decision-making, and built her reputation as a responsible and capable entrepreneur within her community. That shift in social perception is as important as the financial gains. In settings where women’s economic roles are often questioned, visible success backed by discipline and repayment creates new local norms. Her case also highlights the importance of household partnership. The shared roles between husband, wife, and son show that women’s empowerment in rural contexts often grows through cooperation rather than conflict, where enterprise becomes a family strategy for survival and upward movement.

The use of solar energy, home-based retail, and small daily turnover demonstrates how rural families adapt to infrastructure limits with resourcefulness. Importantly, her savings pattern, though modest in absolute terms, represents financial resilience, allowing the family to manage health costs, reinvest in small enterprise, and plan for future expansion. The proposed addition of a freezer and product diversification signals a natural progression from subsistence trade to microenterprise growth. At the same time, her son’s planned business venture indicates intergenerational impact, where one woman’s access to finance opens pathways for the next generation’s employment.

Programs like CIF work best when they remain close to communities, maintain trust, and ensure that financial services are paired with guidance, monitoring, and collective responsibility. Rehiman’s story underlines that empowerment is not a slogan but a process built on access, effort, and accountability. When rural women are trusted with resources and supported through community institutions, they do not simply repay loans. They invest in dignity, stability, and the future of their families.

Read: Empowered by opportunity, driven by determination

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Nadir Ali Shah is an Anthropologist and works as a Regional MER Professional at Sindh Rural Support Organization (SRSO). He can be reached at naadir.shaah@gmail.com

The post Moving Forward: From Microloans to Momentum first appeared on Sindh Courier.

• In Pakistan, the demand for interest-free microfinance has grown rapidly in recent years

By Nadir Ali Shah

In the quiet village of Chaudero, Sindh, Wahedan transformed her life from hardship to stability through determination and opportunity. With support from the Enterprise Development Fund (EDF) under the EU-funded Ex-SUCCESS Program, she turned a small interest-free loan into a thriving home-based business that now sustains her family and inspires other women in her community.

Wahedan (EDF beneficiary) said, “I remember when feeding my family twice a day was difficult. Today, my shop gives us comfort, dignity, and hope.” Through the EDF interest-free loan, Wahedan turned opportunity into lasting change, building a business that now supports her entire family.

Wahedan, 40, is married and a mother of five. She completed matriculation and lives in Village Chaudero, UC Chaudero, Taluka Nasirabad, District Kamber-Shahdadkot Sindh. According to SRSO’s Poverty Scorecard Survey (PSC-2016), the village has 250 households and around 1,900 residents. About 55% of children are enrolled in school, while 45% remain out of school. Nearly 46% of households fall within the poorest PSC category (0–23). Wahedan’s own household scored 23 on the PSC, qualifying her for support under the Ex-SUCCESS Program, funded by the European Union and supported by the Government of Sindh and the Rural Support Programs Network (RSPN).

Wahedan is an active member of Community Organization (CO) Mehak, Village Organization (VO) Chaudero, and serves as President of Local Support Organization (LSO) Sobh. Between 2023 and 2025, she received three interest-free Enterprise Development Fund (EDF) loans, PKR 130,000, PKR 100,000, and PKR 300,000. With this financial support, she started a cosmetic and general store inside her home, which she operates daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. She is also a BISP beneficiary, receiving PKR 12,500 quarterly for the past six years, and received a solar panel from SRSO under the Solar Home System (SHS) project. Her husband, Abdul Majeed (45), a matric-pass laborer, assists her in managing the shop and purchases wholesale items from markets in Larkana.

The Enterprise Development Fund (EDF) initiated by the Sindh Rural Support Organization (SRSO) builds on global and regional evidence that access to finance can help poor households start small businesses and improve their livelihoods. Over the past two decades, microfinance has evolved as a major development tool aimed at reducing poverty and promoting women’s economic participation. Studies from multiple countries show that microcredit enables poor families to invest in income-generating activities, accumulate productive assets, and increase household resilience. However, the long-term impact of microcredit remains mixed, as many borrowers struggle to grow their businesses beyond subsistence levels. Scholars emphasize that microfinance works best when combined with training, market access, and institutional support rather than credit alone.

With determination and support from Sindh Rural Support Organization (SRSO), Wahedan’s business has grown steadily. Her shop now offers over 30 items including cosmetics, clothes, jewelry, and household goods. The total value of her shop inventory is around PKR 1,000,000. Her daily sales average PKR 5,000, with PKR 1,000 in daily savings, resulting in monthly savings of PKR 30,000. Her husband contributes PKR 15,000 per month from labor work, while her two sons earn PKR 9,000 monthly through street vending, an initiative supported by PKR 25,000 from her third EDF loan of PKR 300,000.

During festive seasons such as Eid and wedding months, their sales rise significantly, reaching up to PKR 450,000, with savings of PKR 150,000. Their household expenses are around PKR 30,000 per month, against a combined monthly income of approximately PKR 54,000. The family also participates in a PKR 200,000 committee, contributing PKR 11,000 monthly, and has purchased a second-hand motorcycle for business use. According to her husband, “This interest-free loan (EDF) has truly empowered us financially, helping us meet our family’s basic needs with ease.”

Across South Asia, women-focused microfinance programs have been linked to improvements in household decision-making, self-confidence, and community participation. Yet, several studies caution that access to finance alone does not guarantee empowerment. Social norms, mobility restrictions, and limited exposure to markets can restrict women’s ability to benefit fully from financial inclusion. Successful models in Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka demonstrate that integrating microcredit with social mobilization, vocational training, and collective enterprise models leads to more sustainable outcomes. These lessons are relevant for SRSO’s approach, which embeds the EDF within a broader framework of community institutions such as Community Organizations (COs), Village Organizations (VOs) and Local Support Organizations (LSOs). This structure not only facilitates financial access but also strengthens social capital, trust, and collective decision-making among rural women.

Wahedan and her husband plan to apply for another EDF interest free loan of PKR 1,000,000 to start a fairy clothes business. They aim to expand their household income and create bright future for their children. In Wahedan’s words, “I am confident and determined now to start another small business from the EDF interest free loan to get maximum financial benefits and economic strengthening support for my household. I feel so empowered with this opportunity of EDF.”

In Pakistan, the demand for interest-free microfinance has grown rapidly in recent years. Research shows that interest-free credit (Qarz-e-Hasan) enhances participation among low-income and conservative households that might otherwise avoid conventional microfinance due to religious or social concerns. Evaluations of interest-free loan schemes in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reveal increases in small business activity and asset ownership, particularly among women engaged in livestock and home-based enterprises. Within this national context, SRSO’s EDF model stands out for combining financial inclusion with social mobilization and technical support. Evidence from SRSO’s monitoring reports (2023) indicates that EDF participants have improved household incomes and demonstrated stronger financial independence. However, limited empirical research has examined the long-term impacts of EDF on poverty reduction and empowerment. Future studies are therefore needed to assess the sustainability, scalability, and equity outcomes of interest-free enterprise financing in rural Sindh.

Read: Strategy to Combat Rural Poverty

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Nadir Ali Shah is an Anthropologist and works as a Regional MER Professional at Sindh Rural Support Organization (SRSO). He can be reached at naadir.shaah@gmail.com

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Abdul Basit

Freedom, in many ways assumed, is the foundation of dignity for human beings. It is the power of choosing one’s path, pursuing education, building relationships, and expressing oneself without any fear. It’s the simple act of deciding how to spend a day.

When we are tasked to punish a criminal for his committed crimes, what do we take away from them? They continue to get food, clothes, roof even people to talk to. Instead, we strip a criminal of their freedom, confining them to a prison cell, we recognize its immense value that the loss of their liberty is the ultimate punishment. Then similarly, we should not justify limiting the freedom of women, telling them, “You can do the same at home,” when they yearn for the same basic rights.

This suppression is not simply about physical confinement; it’s about control, founded on the ancient belief that women are somehow undeserving of authority. Certain translations of religious teachings and cultural traditions promote this line of thinking, fostering a culture where women are expected to be submissive and dependent. Today’s challenges include the over-sexualization of women in the media and the commodification of their bodies, which further erodes genuine empowerment.

Read: Empowered Women Change the World

Even women themselves, who uphold these restrictive traditions, contribute to this very cycle that undermines their own potential and empowerment. Women should realize that when they take part in these objectifications by agreeing to act in such commercials and campaigns, they are sending a subliminal message or approval to society that there is nothing wrong in commodifying women’s bodies and it further continues the normalization.

Suppressing women’s intellectual and creative pursuits is not only unjust but also detrimental to society as a whole. A society cannot thrive when half its population is stifled. Further, the degradation of motherhood within capitalist frameworks, where it becomes progressively commodified, underscores the necessity for a change of perspective. Scandinavian nations, where mutual respect between the genders is deeply rooted, are living proof of the advantages of gender equality. Not only are these societies wealthier, but they are also happier and more peaceful.

Let us aim to tear down the walls that limit women’s freedom. Let us break the deep-seated prejudices that cause inequality. Let us strive for a world in which women are not merely admired for their strength and survival but are empowered to lead their lives as they choose. Respecting one another is not merely an ideal, but it is the basis for a just and prosperous society. Let us be reminded that celebrating, respecting, and offering autonomy to women is not an act of benevolence but an essential need for human advancement.

Read: RE-FOCUSING ON A MAN & WOMAN’S ROLE IN SOCIETY

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Abdul Basit is a student of Mass Communication at University of Karachi 

The post Woman Empowerment: Freedom both ways first appeared on Sindh Courier.

In this world which believes in gender equality, in which women are educated and economically dependent, why are they still so dependent on men?

Dr. Jernail S Anand

What type of men and women we like in films? Of course, from men and women characters, we expect exemplary conduct. And we do not like those who fall from grace. Films also represent our life, though here too, some characters are too good and some too bad. Our expectations from the hero or heroine are rather too high. From them, we expect elevated conduct, and highest sacrifice too. The people who see films are great connoisseurs of art, and they know what to expect from their heroes and heroines.

The problem starts when we apply the standards which we expect from them, on our own conduct. Nobody is watching us. Not even gods. So, we feel we have the liberty to deviate from the path of greatness and perform jobs which are not expected of a decent person. In our life, we are bad as sons and daughters and do not care for our parents, but if such a character we find in a film, we shall immediately point out, they are wrong. In the same way, a daughter-in-law, if she is not supportive to her mother-in-law, we are quick to take sides with the old lady, and condemn the DIL’s behaviour. But, in real life, we may be the same villainous stuff.

Women are half the population of the world, and they deserve a better deal

This gap between the artistic and the realistic is what forms the basis of my discussion today. Why we expect from others to play so good, while we easily excuse ourselves from any such trouble.

What particularly disturbs me is the helplessness that marks the roles of women characters. In this world which believes in gender equality, in which women are educated and economically dependent, why are they still so dependent on men? Why a man still dominates the proceedings at home and outside? When they marry, the man is not afraid of the divorce, but the woman feels devastated. When a male child is born, still our society celebrates his birth while a girl child is intentionally not willed.

The respect that we accord to the women characters in films is missing from real life. Crimes against women are on the increase

After marriage, the husband has all the power to decide whether his wife will go for work or not. And, how easily he starts doubting her if he finds her talking on phone to someone. It is the woman who does not want her home to be broken, but man does not bother. These days, under work pressures, they do not want to have marriage. They want live-in relationships. If we go by what is happening in metros, life is in grave danger for working women. Men are still the final arbiters of this world. Woman is still a powerless whisper against a man’s powered voice.

Read – Gender Studies: A Trans-Generational Change from the Spinning Wheel to Laptop

Status Quo

There can be many reasons and one is we love our traditions, and our culture, and want to maintain status quo. Women do not realize it but this is the reason why they are still ill-treated, and why dowry is demanded, and why they are considered the second sex.

The Ultronic Age

In the 3rd book of the Mahakaal Trilogy, ‘The Ultronic Age’, I have fabulated a world in which Queen Ultronia is reigning under the blessings of Goddess Saraswati, who is the Muse of Fine Arts. Gods decided to hand over the post-Kalyuga age to Goddess Saraswati, and under her patronage to Queen Ultronia after it was decided that they had entrusted men with the four Yugas and every Yuga had a seen a great War. Let this new Ultronic Age be handled by a woman. Thus, It is a woman’s world and women are taller than men, and there is no discrimination against them. There is no marriage in the absence of love, and the lovers are required to register their affair. They have to be living together for six years, after which they get permission to marry. If they decide to separate at any stage, the state takes care of the kids. The woman is not to worry who will feed her kids etc. In this way, women enjoy great respect in the society. One major departure is there is no penal code. For any aberrations, there is only one punishment. And it is capital punishment. As a result, there is no crime against women.

Flare up of Knowledge

The respect that we accord to the women characters in films is missing from real life. Crimes against women are on the increase. There are many reasons for this and the most important is the flare up of knowledge unsupported by moral education. The International Academy of Ethics has now come up with a novel idea – An Ethical Alphabet. If this alphabet is made popular among the students, they will gain a moral perspective in their early age. The crime in society is the result of the vacuum caused by a parentless society in which grandparents have ceased to exist. Men live, not by bread, but by their wisdom. The wisdom that comes from behind is not all welcome, because there is so much which can disturb our perspectives. We need a judicious mix of the past and the present to carve out a meaningful future for our younger generations. Women are half the population of the world, and they deserve a better deal. The earlier they shed their traditional makeover, the better. We should prepare them not for the 18th century, but for the 22nd century.

Read: The Cultural Imbroglio and the Society under Transformation

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Dr. Jernail Singh Anand, President of the International Academy of Ethics, is author of 170 books in English poetry, fiction, non-fiction, philosophy and spirituality. He was awarded Charter of Morava, the great Award by Serbian Writers Association, Belgrade and his name was engraved on the Poets’ Rock in Serbia. The Academy of Arts and philosophical Sciences of Bari [Italy] honored him with the award of an Honorable Academic.  Recently, he was awarded Doctor of Philosophy [Honoris Causa] by the University of Engg and Management, Jaipur. Recently, he organized an International Conference on Contemporary Ethics at Chandigarh. His most phenomenal book is Lustus: The Prince of Darkness [first epic of the Mahkaal Trilogy]. Email: anandjs55@yahoo.com

Link Bibliography:

https://atunispoetry.com/2023/12/08/indian-author-dr-jernail-s-anand-honoured-at-the-60th-belgrade-international-meeting-of-writers/

The post RE-FOCUSING ON A MAN & WOMAN’S ROLE IN SOCIETY first appeared on Sindh Courier.

 By Amir Murtaza

In today’s fast-paced world, companies that prioritize Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) aren’t just doing the right thing—they’re getting ahead. GESI fosters a diverse and inclusive environment, attracting top talent, building customer loyalty, and promoting sustainability. In the context of Pakistan, where cultural and social dynamics often pose unique challenges, the integration of GESI into business practices is not only beneficial but essential for long-term success.

 The Power of GESI in the Workplace

Imagine a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. GESI makes that a reality. By integrating GESI into their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy, companies in Pakistan can showcase a commitment to ethical and responsible practices. This translates to a stronger brand and a competitive edge in both local and international markets.

The benefits of GESI extend even further. Diverse teams bring a wider range of perspectives to the table, leading to more creative solutions and better decision-making. Additionally, a company that reflects the demographics of its customer base is more likely to understand their needs and build stronger relationships. This is particularly crucial in Pakistan, where understanding the diverse cultural and social nuances can make a significant difference in business success.

Implementing GESI isn’t just about checking a box. It’s about creating a culture where everyone feels comfortable bringing their whole selves to work. This can be achieved through unconscious bias training, creating clear policies against discrimination, and ensuring equal opportunities for advancement. In a country like Pakistan, where gender roles are traditionally defined, such measures can be transformative.

The Critical Need for Gender Equality in Pakistan

In Pakistan, gender inequality remains a significant barrier to economic and social development. Women make up nearly half of the population, yet their participation in the workforce is disproportionately low. Addressing this imbalance is not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity. When women are empowered and included in the workforce, the overall productivity and GDP of the country can see substantial improvements.

Gender equality in the workplace can also lead to enhanced social stability. Empowered women contribute to healthier, better-educated families, which in turn fosters a more stable society. Companies that prioritize gender equality can play a pivotal role in this transformation, setting examples for others to follow and creating a ripple effect throughout the community.

Social Inclusion: A Path to Comprehensive Growth

Social inclusion goes hand-in-hand with gender equality, encompassing not just gender but also other aspects such as ethnicity, age, disability, and socioeconomic status. In Pakistan, where social stratification can be pronounced, fostering an inclusive environment is crucial. Social inclusion ensures that all individuals have the opportunity to participate fully in economic, social, and political life, which can lead to more cohesive and resilient communities.

Read: Women entrepreneurs in Pakistan face formidable challenges

For businesses, promoting social inclusion can result in a more diverse talent pool, richer perspectives, and greater innovation. By breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity, companies can tap into the vast potential of marginalized groups, driving creativity and productivity. Moreover, inclusive businesses are better positioned to cater to a diverse customer base, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

GESI Strategies for Women Entrepreneurs in Pakistan

Pakistan has a growing number of inspiring women entrepreneurs. However, social and cultural barriers can make navigating the business world challenging. Here are some GESI strategies specifically for women entrepreneurs in Pakistan:

Building Your Network

Building your network is crucial for women entrepreneurs in Pakistan. Connect with women-focused organizations such as the Karandaaz Pakistan or LadiesFund for mentorship, training, and networking opportunities with other female entrepreneurs. Additionally, joining industry-specific associations can help you connect with potential partners and clients, as well as access valuable industry knowledge.

Access to Capital

Access to capital is essential for the growth of women-led businesses in Pakistan. Explore microfinance options from institutions that cater specifically to women entrepreneurs. Look into government programs offering loans or grants for women-owned businesses. Additionally, consider pitching your business idea to angel investor networks that support women-led startups.

Developing Your Business

To develop your business, start by identifying a gap in the market where your product or service can cater specifically to women’s needs. Leverage social media and online platforms for digital marketing to reach a wider audience and showcase your business. Additionally, seek guidance from experienced mentors or businesswomen who can provide valuable insights and support.

Building a Supportive Workplace

Building a supportive workplace is essential for fostering an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive. Start by offering flexible work hours or remote work options to accommodate women with family responsibilities, ensuring they can balance their professional and personal lives effectively. Implement diversity and inclusion training to educate yourself and your employees on unconscious bias, promoting a work environment that is respectful and inclusive for everyone. Additionally, foster a sense of community within your company by creating support networks or employee resource groups for women, providing them with a platform for mutual support, networking, and professional growth.

Advocacy and Awareness

Advocacy and awareness are powerful tools for empowering women entrepreneurs in Pakistan. By sharing your story, you can use your platform to inspire other women, illustrating the challenges you’ve overcome and the successes you’ve achieved in your entrepreneurial journey. This not only motivates others but also builds a community of shared experiences and support. Additionally, actively support other women entrepreneurs by collaborating with women-owned businesses, which can create synergistic opportunities and foster mutual growth. Mentoring aspiring female entrepreneurs is another impactful way to contribute, offering guidance, knowledge, and encouragement to those navigating the early stages of their business ventures.

By implementing these GESI strategies, Pakistani women entrepreneurs can empower themselves, build successful businesses, and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable business landscape. In a country where the economic participation of women is still evolving, these steps can lead to significant positive change, driving economic growth and social progress.

Incorporating GESI into business practices in Pakistan is not merely a trend but a necessity for sustainable growth. It fosters innovation, enhances brand reputation, and builds a more resilient and adaptable workforce. As more companies and entrepreneurs embrace these principles, the business landscape in Pakistan will become more inclusive, dynamic, and successful. Gender equality and social inclusion are not just ethical imperatives but strategic advantages that can drive profound economic and social transformations across the country.

Read also: Empowering Women to Unlock their Financial Potential

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Amir Murtaza is a gender expert with a dedicated focus on gender-based violence, gender equality and social inclusion. He can be reached at amirmurtaza1@hotmail.com.

The post Building a Better Business: Why Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Matter in Pakistan first appeared on Sindh Courier.