Islamabad, Dec 18: P&G Pakistan, Imtiaz Group—Pakistan’s largest retailer—and Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance, a leading nonprofit organization, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support women microentrepreneurs through interest-free loans.
This collaboration highlights a shared dedication to fostering local entrepreneurship and driving economic progress within communities. By providing interest-free loans, the initiative aims to empower women to establish successful businesses, improving their own lives and benefiting their families and society at large.
The partnership will kick off with in-store promotions and a donation-matching program involving employees of P&G Pakistan and Imtiaz Group. Together, they aim to raise approximately Rs. 1 crore, impacting over 500 women and creating around 800 job opportunities. From December 27–29, 2024, customers purchasing Ariel, Pampers, Always, Gillette, Head & Shoulders, Pantene, or Safeguard products will contribute to this cause through their purchases, sparking a chain of empowerment and economic uplift across Pakistan.
Ovais Ather Yousuf, CEO of P&G Pakistan, expressed, “We are committed to promoting gender equality by creating sustainable economic opportunities for women. Our collaboration with Imtiaz Group and Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance is focused on empowering women in underserved communities, enabling them to achieve financial independence as entrepreneurs.”
Globally, women’s financial inclusion is increasing, with more women taking on roles as entrepreneurs and leaders. However, in Pakistan, women’s contributions remain primarily societal rather than economic, ranking among the lowest globally. A World Bank report emphasizes the need for better financial access to help women start and expand their businesses. This initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals #1 (ending poverty) and #5 (achieving gender equality).
Umer Imtiaz, CEO of Imtiaz Group, stated, “As a community-focused retailer, we believe empowering women entrepreneurs has a far-reaching impact, uplifting entire communities. By involving our customers in this transformative effort, we hope to unlock women’s potential and drive sustainable economic growth for all.”
Danish Aman, Chairman of the Council of Patrons Sindh at Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance, added, “Poverty is more than just a lack of resources—it’s a deprivation of social support, justice, and hope. These interest-free loans aim to empower women entrepreneurs, enhancing their quality of life and uplifting society.”
P&G remains steadfast in its mission to promote equality and inclusion in Pakistan. The company is leveraging its operations, scale, and marketing platforms to challenge gender bias, support girls’ education, and empower women economically.
