WCCI AJK will provide support in business registration, legal guidance, and access to markets for participants trained by Muslim Hands across various stages.
Joint initiatives aim to introduce women-led incubation approaches that can transform the rural economic landscape in AJK.
Mirpur, Azad Jammu and Kashmir_ A discussion meeting took place at the Muslim Hands office in Mirpur, involving Mr. Muhammad Suleman (Executive Manager, Muslim Hands Mirpur) and Mr. Syed Anjum Bilal (Head of Operations, Muslim Hands Mirpur), along with Mr. Muhammad Zahid Khan (Secretary, Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry AJK). The focus was on building a collaborative framework to promote women-run businesses throughout Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The Muslim Hands team shared details of their current efforts in livelihood improvement and skill-building programs. They highlighted the active status of the Al Kubra Production Centers located in Mirpur, Dadyal, Ali Baigh (Bhimber), Kotli, and Bharing (Bhimber). These facilities are presently involving more than 130 skilled women in garment manufacturing and vocational training, supported by sustainable, results-oriented earning structures.
WCCI AJK indicated its willingness to establish a formal partnership—subject to Board of Governors’ endorsement—to enhance the institutional framework and ensure the longevity of these projects. Both parties agreed that WCCI AJK would assist with formal company registration, adherence to regulations, business organization, and connecting participants and production facilities to broader markets.
Conversations also covered the creation of an organized framework for cottage industries and the potential shift of these centers into independent social business models for durability independent of external funding. The groups recognized the promising opportunities for exporting high-quality garments and stressed the need for joint work to improve quality controls, develop branding, and expand commercial reach.
Additionally, ideas were explored for setting up state-level incubation and business assistance systems led by women. These would enable the replication and growth of proven approaches in rural areas, offering expert advice, policy advocacy, and links to financing to increase women’s involvement in the official economy.
The session ended with a mutual pledge to combine resources and institutional strengths to meaningfully include women— who form almost half of AJK’s population—in organized economic pursuits. This collaboration is expected to elevate disadvantaged groups and make a significant positive impact on the state’s rural economic development.
