In Western Afghanistan, Homa Qayoomi shows what dedication looks like. In 2021, she had the chance to leave for better opportunities. Instead, she stayed in Herat, committed to her family and the community she loves. Her time in Japan, where she earned a master’s degree in Law and Politics and researched gender equality and women’s participation in political decision making in Afghanistan, played a big role in that decision. Now, as a UNDP programme officer, she travels across the Western provinces, connecting with communities that struggle to meet basic needs—especially when it comes to women. Her focus? Empowering women through entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods. Thanks to Japanese support, these efforts are gaining momentum. Homa brings Japanese values into her work with the UNDP. Here, she discusses the challenges in Herat, her mission, and how Japan is making a real difference, particularly for women.

Could you introduce yourself and tell us about your role at UNDP?

Thank you so much for the interview. My name is Homa Qayoomi. I'm from Herat Afghanistan, but I was born in Mazar-e-Sharif, Balkh province. I graduated with a master’s degree in law and politics from Kyushu University, Japan. Now I am working with UNDP as a livelihood officer. My main responsibilities include conducting assessments, monitoring saving groups, and coordinating other livelihoods projects in the provinces of Herat, Badghis, and Farah. It's been almost four months now, and I'm thrilled to be part of a team that works closely with regional communities and other UN agencies.

You have had a long and interesting career. Could you share how you ended up working with UNDP and some of the key experiences that led you here?

Working with the UN was always a dream for me. My educational journey in Japan played a significant role in shaping my path. The research I conducted there on “Gender Equality and Women’s Participation in Political Decision Making in Afghanistan” aligned perfectly with UNDP’s goals. I am truly grateful for the chance to utilize the knowledge and skills I acquired in Japan in my role at UNDP.

Can you describe a typical day in your job?

Each day is diverse and dynamic. I usually conduct assessments and identify the needs at the community level in the Western region. I provide technical support to design the livelihoods projects (vocational skills training, business support, and access to finance) in line with the ABADEI programme outputs. I also develop and maintain good working relations with communities, partners, other UN actors and any other stakeholders. My work involves not just planning and coordination but also ensuring that the projects meet the needs of local communities, including internal displaced persons and returnees from neighboring countries who come to Herat in search of safety and opportunities. The aim is to create sustainable economic opportunities that empower people, especially women, to improve their livelihoods.

Can you describe your experience as a JICA fellow? What special connection do you have with Japan, and how has your experience there influenced your work in development?

My trip to Japan was one of the most exciting experiences of my life. Initially, I was unsure about the culture and environment, but it quickly became a place I admired greatly. The Japanese people’s kindness and their dedication to hard work deeply impressed me. Japan is a safe and supportive environment for female students, and my research on women’s political participation in Afghanistan has been invaluable to my current work. When I started working with UNDP, I didn't know that there would be a connection between Japan and UNDP, so I am really glad that my work at UNDP will draw on my experience in Japan.

What did you learn from working in Japan about effective aid practices?

Japan taught me the significance of meticulous planning and the importance of seeing projects through to their completion. The Japanese people are really kind, polite, responsible, and hard-working, and I really love their attitude. They are incredibly dedicated to their commitments, and this inspires my approach to livelihoods projects. I believe that working together with Japanese partners can greatly enhance the effectiveness of our efforts.

How do you see Japan making a difference on the ground in Afghanistan? Could you provide some examples of their impact in local communities that you are seeing?

Japan plays a crucial role in supporting Afghanistan, especially through projects in agriculture, community-based infrastructure, recovery and livelihoods. Their long-term vision and commitment have helped us implement community-driven projects that are inclusive and sustainable. Japan’s support for women entrepreneurship and business development is particularly noteworthy.

As Japan celebrates 70 years since the start of its Official Development Assistance (ODA), what would you like to say about the importance of Japanese cooperation for women and communities in Afghanistan?

Japan’s proactive support for women in Afghanistan is truly remarkable, and I am proud to say I am one of them. Their efforts empower young Afghan women like myself by offering opportunities for higher education in Japan. This enables us to return home and contribute to our country’s development. On their anniversary, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and wish them continued success in supporting those in need. Arigato gozaimasu!