Gaza women entrepreneurs struggle to sustain livelihoods amid crisis

Nearly three years of conflict in Gaza have severely damaged productive capacity, disrupted local markets, and caused the cost of basic goods to rise sharply. Amidst this devastation, women entrepreneurs are working to sustain livelihoods and rebuild economic opportunities.

In Khan Younis, 35-year-old Nidaa manages a business raising chickens, ducks, and rabbits to support her family. Despite facing displacement and the loss of animals due to famine and rising food costs, she has continued her operations. Through a partnership between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the local Chamber of Commerce, she received grants for animals, equipment, and production training.

Other entrepreneurs, such as Hanaa, a dairy business owner in Gaza City, face similar hurdles in restarting production after severe losses. These small-scale businesses must navigate constant challenges, including lack of reliable energy, clean water, limited food supplies for livestock, and the need for proper shelter for animals during the winter.