At the 2024 World Entrepreneurship Investment Forum (WEIF) in Bahrain, women entrepreneurs from Afghanistan, Algeria, Iraq, Sudan, and Gaza were highlighted for their inspiring projects and the need for more funding. One such entrepreneur, Tahani Abu Daqqa from Gaza, shared her struggles of working towards women’s empowerment in a conflict-ridden area. Despite facing challenges due to recurring conflicts in Gaza, Abu Daqqa has worked on projects focusing on environmental initiatives and renewable energy for women in the region. However, the recent outbreak of conflict forced her to shift her focus to providing immediate assistance to displaced women and children, accumulating significant debt in the process.
Abu Daqqa’s determination to help those in need led her to forgo personal financial assistance in order to provide shelter for displaced individuals, despite accumulating significant debt in the process. Her dedication to supporting women and children in crisis situations showcases the resilience and selflessness of women entrepreneurs in conflict-affected areas. By prioritizing the needs of others over her own financial struggles, Abu Daqqa embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship driven by a desire to make a positive impact on her community.
Another inspiring entrepreneur, Alaa Hamadto from Sudan, shared her story of founding Solar Food, a clean tech startup focused on solar drying technology for the dried foods industry in Sudan. As a mother of three daughters, Hamadto emphasizes the importance of supporting Sudanese women in pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams. By innovating in the field of clean technology and sustainable food production, Hamadto is paving the way for women in Sudan to enter traditionally male-dominated industries and make a lasting impact on their communities.
The challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in conflict-affected regions, such as Gaza and Sudan, highlight the importance of providing support and resources to empower these individuals to continue their work. Despite facing financial difficulties and external obstacles, women like Abu Daqqa and Hamadto are determined to create positive change in their communities through their entrepreneurial ventures. By sharing their stories and advocating for increased funding and support for women-led projects, these entrepreneurs are inspiring others to overcome adversity and make a difference in regions affected by conflict and instability.
The 2024 WEIF serves as a platform for women entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds to come together, share their experiences, and advocate for greater support for their projects. By highlighting the stories of women like Abu Daqqa and Hamadto, the forum sheds light on the resilience and determination of women entrepreneurs in conflict-affected regions. Through their innovative projects and unwavering commitment to social impact, these entrepreneurs are driving positive change and empowering women in their communities to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams despite the challenges they face.
