Border News Agency
Maungdaw, November 17
Displaced women in areas controlled by the Arakan People's Revolutionary Army (APRA) report that they need not only vocational training but also sewing machines to support their livelihoods. These women are struggling to make ends meet as they lack assistance, facing difficulties in accessing essential goods and services due to high prices and scarcity of resources.
In order to overcome these challenges, they emphasize the urgent need for vocational training programs and the provision of necessary equipment to facilitate their work. One displaced woman from Maungdaw Township shared with Border News Agency, "Some women know how to sew and want to start sewing, but they cannot afford the machines. Many fled with only the clothes on their backs, leaving everything behind. We hope to receive training programs and tools that will help us earn a living."
The displaced women, including those who have been refugees since 2012, stress that support for vocational training and essential materials is crucial. Among them are women from remote and difficult-to-access areas, minority ethnic groups, women with disabilities, and Muslim women, all of whom are facing even greater hardships.
In addition to livelihood support, these women are also in dire need of assistance for basic needs such as food, clothing, and health care. They assert that training and resources are vital for improving their daily lives. One displaced woman from the Myauk Taung area stated, "We need home economics training, agricultural training, and resources to pursue other income-generating activities. We hope for support from the international community."
Since the beginning of the conflict, the military junta has blocked all land and water routes in Arakan State, restricting humanitarian assistance from international organizations. Consequently, displaced women have been unable to receive the help they desperately need.
As a result, young women are calling for access to education, monthly supplies for women, healthcare for pregnant women, and rehabilitation support for women with disabilities. They also stress the need for assistance for elderly women.
Due to the ongoing conflict, the Arakan Army (AA) has taken control of the borders with India and Bangladesh, complicating humanitarian aid delivery. Displaced women are urging for support to help them achieve long-term stability and income generation.
(Photo: Muslim displaced women from Maungdaw Township/BNA)