Amidst the severe restrictions imposed by the interim government on women and girls in the country, a young woman in Badakhshan province has opened a restaurant exclusively for women.
Zahra Goonish, a 31-year-old woman, established the “Goonish” restaurant about two months ago with the aim of supporting women who have been deprived of work and education.
Zahra Goonish, who is both the owner and manager of the restaurant, states: “In the current situation, the only opportunity for women to engage in business is here. The doors of schools and universities are closed to us. My goal in starting this venture is to provide opportunities for women who have been sidelined from work and education due to the current conditions in Afghanistan.”
One of the young women who has been unable to continue her education for three years due to government restrictions and is now working as an employee at this restaurant says: “Since I couldn’t continue my education, I decided to work at the restaurant. I wanted to alleviate my health and psychological issues through this job.”
With a choked voice and tear-filled eyes, she adds: “My main goal is to continue my education and achieve my dreams, but due to the difficult current circumstances, I have chosen this job to escape the psychological problems caused by unemployment and mental pressure.”
Despite existing challenges, women’s activities in Badakhshan are not without obstacles. Some women express concern about the dire situation of young Badakhshani women who have resorted to hard labor.
In light of these concerns, officials from the current government warn women that if they violate their laws, they will curb women’s activities.
Mawlawi Samaruddin, the director of industry enterprises in Badakhshan, states: “Women’s activities are permitted within the framework of Islamic law and the directives of the Islamic Emirate. If they operate according to Sharia and the policies of the Emirate, we support their work. However, if their activities contradict Sharia and the principles of the Emirate, we will not only refrain from assisting them but will also be prepared to shut down their operations.”
It should be noted that at Goonish restaurant, girls prepare local and popular dishes with a unique flair and serve them to their customers.
In addition to Goonish restaurant, another women-only restaurant called “Khadbano” is also operating in Badakhshan.
It is noteworthy that over the past three years, due to restrictions imposed by the current government, many young Badakhshani girls have engaged in jobs such as restaurant management, tailoring, and carpet weaving.
