Sewing workshop in Basra empowers women to launch small businesses

BASRA — A sewing workshop organized by the Dorar Al-Iraq Association, with support from the International Organization for Migration, is underway in Basra’s Al-Zubair district, providing 10 women with the skills to launch their own businesses. Now in its 17th day, the workshop has seen participants quickly mastering sewing techniques and producing clothing items for women and children, as well as traditional pieces.

Sundus Mohammed, coordinator of the Dorar Al-Iraq Association, expressed her amazement at the participants’ progress. “The women have already produced clothing items, including traditional pieces, which will be showcased at the upcoming Sikka Heritage Festival in November,” she said.

“We have been conducting the sewing workshop for 17 days, three days a week. Its full duration is 25 days, with funding from the International Organization for Migration,” Mohammed added.

Sewing has become an important source of income, especially for women in conflict-affected regions. Initiatives across Iraq, including cities like Mosul, Anah, and Kirkuk, provide training to help women start businesses and support their families. Many of these programs, run by organizations such as the United Nations Development Programme, also offer mental health support in addition to vocational training.

The workshop takes place in a sewing studio owned by a professional seamstress in the Al-Mirbad area of the district. The 10 participants have already begun producing clothing items. “So far, we’ve completed 26 women’s garments, 26 children’s suits, and 25 bed covers,” Mohammed said.

Earlier this month, the Agriculture Department in Al-Madina district, north of Basra, also organized a workshop aimed at teaching rural women sewing skills to help them start small businesses and enter the job market.

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