Amidst these challenges , a significant transformation is underway in the apricot orchards of the remote , highmountain region of Gilgit-Baltistan , Pakistan where Central Asia Institute has long worked . Despite women ’ s role in fruit harvesting , approximately 45 % of the annual apricot harvest is lost due to insufficient agricultural education , inefficient preservation methods , and limited access to markets and training centers . Consequently , women face profound economic insecurity and lack of empowerment . To address these issues , CAI partnered with Moawin Foundation to launch the Women ’ s Fruit Dehydration program .
Through targeted training , nearly 100 participants from five districts in Gilgit-Baltistan were introduced to improved fruit processing techniques to enhance the quality of dried apricots — a staple of the national economy . As a result , traditional dehydration methods were modernized enabling women to dry fruit in just three to four days compared to the previous two to three weeks . According to Mr . Wahli , Moawin Foundation ’ s Regional Manager :
" The introduction of modern techniques has been transformative for the village women . They now have access to efficient practices that allow them to preserve a greater portion of their harvest which helped them transition from merely subsisting on their produce to generating substantial income . This empowerment has given them greater control over their finances , enabling them to invest in their families ' health , education , and future . The program has also stimulated economic activity within the communities ."
Before the program , a portion of the participants ’ harvest went towards feeding families and cattle , while the remainder was discarded , resulting in both economic and environmental losses . Since its implementation , the program ’ s economic impact on women ' s households is already promising to be transformative . Previously , these households earned approximately $ 70- $ 90 per month ; now , they are projected to earn between $ 170- $ 220 per month — a potential income increase of up to 140 %. Whereas their produce once sold for around 20 cents per kilogram , they now command prices between 82 cents to $ 1 per kilogram . This represents more than a 400 % increase in profit .
Rashida , 43 years old and a single parent of three , used to depend solely on sporadic agricultural earnings . Her life changed when she joined the program . Equipped with new knowledge , she now dreams of expanding her operations to international markets . " Thank you to the donors for choosing a region where the common perception was that women couldn ' t achieve much ," Rashida expressed gratefully . " Your support has shattered those misconceptions and empowered us to showcase our capabilities . Your investment has not only changed our lives but also inspired a new narrative of possibility for future generations . Thank you for believing in us ."
These women have not only brought financial prosperity to their households , but also discovered a sense of accomplishment . Faiza , 35 years old and from a family of eight with no formal education or prior work experience , shared , " What makes me incredibly happy is knowing that
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