Inspiring women to start own venture

Manama : The Fourth Alwane regional summit held here has encouraged Bahraini women to venture into business activities that are in harmony with Bahrain’s strategic plan. 

In this regard, the summit participants urged Bahraini women not to ‘wait for employment in the public and private sector’. 

“Look for opportunities in the financial and insurance, logistics, hospitality, and ICT sectors which would enhance economic growth and employment opportunities,” they said. The summit in its recommendations, however, cautioned women on the need to stay away from business activities like cup cake making, Abaya embroidery and other copycat practises. 

Held under the patronage of Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism Zayed bin Rashid Alzayani at Down Rotana Hotel, the event was organised by Bahrain Small and Medium Enterprises Development Society. Businessman Farouk Almoayyed and Society Chairman Ahmed Al Saloom participated in the summit. 

Alwane stands for Active Leaders for Women’s Advancement in the Near East, which also means ‘My Colours’ in Arabic.

Sijili power 

A panel session held as part of the summit highlighted the opportunity provided by Ministry of Industry and Commerce to obtain a virtual CR (Sijili).  “It is a great opportunity for those who have small capital to start their own business,” the session pointed out. 

Around 35 activities are currently allowed through Sijili. 

Commenting on the summit, President of Alwane Bahrain, Ammar Awachi, said, “Alwane Bahrain would work on finalizing the recommendations and share that with decision
makers.”

In his opening speech, Awachi pointed that the legislations in Bahrain are good enough to support women entrepreneurs, even though there are certain elements that hinder their positive participation. 

“Those elements are mainly related to social matters and the influence of the society’s behaviour,” he said stressing that Alwane have initiatives to help women obtain financial independence.