In Amsterdam, X BANK, a concept store under the Sircle Collection hospitality group, placed pilot orders with Rabeha entrepreneurs. “We chose to work with the Rabeha because craftsmanship and sustainability are core values for XBANK. If you combine this with women empowerment it means you make a difference in the world!”, said Alexander van Dijk, Store manager.
Rabeha supported Egyptian artisans are also currently producing garments for Italian fashion designer Sara Battaglia and herRed Collar project, based in Milan, Italy, which raises awareness about violence against women. “I deeply share the Rabeha programme’s values and its mission of supporting women’s empowerment and promoting sustainable opportunities,” said Battaglia. “I believe that working together can create a positive impact and raise awareness on issues that are particularly close to my heart.”
The social procurement model is proving businesses play a central role in creating equitable and resilient supply chains. As Sarah Alazem, co-founder of Duma, a Rabeha-supported enterprise, explained: “We hope to help women artisans to earn a better income—this is the most important thing, so they can support their families and themselves.”
Manal Mamdouh, Developmental Projects Manager from the Ministry of Industry highlighted the programme’s success: “We did not expect during the initial design of the programme that our women artisans would achieve such success. Seeing Rabeha products showcased in Paris and in demand on the international stage is a major milestone that we must build on. Rabeha is not just creating new opportunities—it is opening doors for a new generation of pioneering businesswomen.”
Rabeha (meaning “winner” in Arabic) has already support the economic empowerment of more than 7,500 women in seven governorates through increased access to employment and self-employment opportunities. The joint programme is implemented by UN Women and UNIDO in partnership with the National Council for Women (NCW), the Ministry of Industry (MoI) and the Medium, Small and Micro Enterprises Development Agency (MSMEDA), with the generous support of Global Affairs Canada.
For more information please contact:
Virpi Stucki
Chief
Division of Fair Production, Sustainability standards and Trade