KABUL - Enhancing women’s participation in public life and finding solutions to the unique problems faced by rural Afghan women were on the agenda at a UN-backed event in Kabul attended by Provincial Governor Hamid Akram.

The event was attended by more than 50 participants, including women’s rights activists, women from civil society in remote districts of Kabul province, provincial government officials and representatives from international organizations.

As the event commenced, Mr. Akram said the government must provide equal opportunities for women to participate in decision-making, and urged women to compete for government positions, especially at the district level.

Participants discussed practical solutions to issues women face, especially in rural areas where education and health services are scarce. Participants also discussed ways to strengthen women’s role in public life, including in community decision-making processes.

Also at the event, participants learned about a joint project spearheaded by the provincial government and the Goethe Institute. The project was set up to produce theatrical events focused on raising awareness about peace, reconciliation and education.

Ibrahim Hotak, the Director of the Goethe Institute, invited women to propose ideas for additional district-level initiatives that would raise awareness about the importance of women’s role in society.

Gabriela Iribarne, the head of the Kabul regional office of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), talked at the event, and asked participants to reflect, as women, on their legacy, the impact they will have on the next generation of women.

“Small efforts to change traditional attitudes to expand girls and women’s choices, within the family and community, can eventually lead to broader movements for change,” she said.

UNAMA is mandated to support the Afghan Government and the people of Afghanistan as a political mission that provides good offices; promotes coherent development support by the international community; supports the process of peace and reconciliation; monitors and promotes human rights and the protection of civilians in armed conflict; promotes good governance; and encourages regional cooperation.