PAKISTAN, Karachi, December 18, 2024 – P&G Pakistan, Imtiaz Group – Pakistan’s largest retailer and Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance, a leading not-for-profit organization, have joined forces by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today to empower women micropreneurs through interest-free loans. This initiative underscores a shared commitment to nurturing local entrepreneurship and driving economic growth within communities. By offering these interest-free loans, the partnership aims to unleash the potential of women, enabling them to establish thriving businesses that not only enhance their own lives but also contribute positively to their families and society as a whole.
The collaboration will launch with in-store activations and a donation-match program for employees of both P&G Pakistan and Imtiaz Group, aiming to raise approximately ~Rs. 1 crore. This initiative seeks to transform the lives of over 500 women while creating employment opportunities for around 800 individuals, igniting a ripple effect of empowerment and economic growth that benefits families and communities across Pakistan. From December 27–29, 2024, consumers who purchase Ariel, Pampers, Always, Gillette, Head & Shoulders, Pantene, or Safeguard will contribute to this cause with every purchase.
Ovais Ather Yousuf, Chief Executive Officer of P&G Pakistan, stated, “We are dedicated to advancing gender parity by expanding sustainable economic opportunities for women. Our collaboration with Imtiaz Group and Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance aims to empower women in marginalized communities and foster their financial independence as entrepreneurs.”
Globally, women’s financial inclusion is on the rise, with more women stepping into roles as entrepreneurs and business leaders. However, in Pakistan, women’s contributions remain largely societal rather than economic, with their status ranking among the lowest worldwide. A World Bank report underscores the need for increased access to financial resources to help women initiate and grow their businesses. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals #1 (eradicating poverty) and #5 (gender equality).
Speaking at the occasion, Umer Imtiaz, Chief Executive Officer of Imtiaz Group, added, “As a community-oriented retailer, we believe empowering women micropreneurs goes beyond supporting individual businesses—it’s about creating a ripple effect that uplifts entire communities. By inviting our customers to join this transformative initiative, we aim to drive meaningful change, helping women unlock their potential and contribute to sustainable economic growth for everyone.”
Danish Aman, Chairman Council of Patrons Sindh, Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance, emphasized, “Poverty is not just about lack of resources; it’s about deprivation of social networks, justice and hope. Aiming to eradicate poverty in marginalized communities, these loans are designed to empower women entrepreneurs, enhancing their living standards and uplifting society as a whole”.
P&G is committed to advancing its Equality & Inclusion mission in the country. It is leveraging the strengths of its business operations as well as its scale and advertising voice to address gender bias, enable education for girls and promote women’s economic empowerment.