In the Sulaimani province of the Kurdistan Region, a mother strives for financial independence to support her children by selling Kurdish bread.
Shokahn Nasradin, a married mother of four, operates a mobile kitchen out of her KIA truck, where she sells fried and baked flatbreads. With eight years of baking experience, Nasradin has been vending her freshly made products on the streets for nearly five years.
“Being financially self-reliant is the most fulfilling aspect,” Nasradin told media as she fried flatbread in her improvised kitchen. “I’m grateful for my children’s support as well.”
Despite dealing with daily challenges, such as men catcalling and making derogatory remarks, Nasradin perseveres and continues to work each day.
She also encounters legal obstacles from local authorities, who have requested that she cease selling on the street. However, she lacks the financial means to rent a space for her business. “That is the only place I can work, regardless of whether they permit me or not,” Nasradin stated.
In recent years, more female entrepreneurs have been starting businesses to achieve financial independence and employment opportunities.
As part of its efforts to reduce reliance on oil as the primary revenue source, the Kurdistan Region has launched initiatives to promote entrepreneurship and develop the private sector. Each year, thousands of graduates seek job opportunities in the already overburdened public sector. According to officials, the KRG is working to change this trend.
