About Us

Our History

Shamama is an organization dedicated to bringing positive change for women in Afghanistan, striving for justice and social equality. The name “Shahmama” represents a combination of “yes” and “no”. Symbolizing a rejection of the current societal conditions while embracing Afghanistan’s historical, cultural heritage and social equality.

Shahmama originally a female name, is linked to one of two iconic statues (Buddhas of Bamyan) in Bamyam province of Afghanistan, dating back to the fifth century AD, representing the relationship between men and women in Afghan society. Sadly, these cultural symbols were destroyed by the Taliban in 2001, signifying the loss of heritage and the stifling of peaceful and human life in Afghanistan. The destruction of Shahmama was a symbolic representation of the Taliban view of women, their denial of women’s rights, and the suppression of their basic privilege, including access to education.

We believe in reviving the empowering historical role of women in Afghan society. This objective is pursued through a variety of initiatives, encompassing conferences, workshops, training programs, and human rights awareness campaigns.  Shahmama strives to facilitate the meaningful participation of women in the broader political landscape, such as peace talks, ultimately working to restore the country’s past glory and promote equality between men and women in Afghanistan.

Profile

Shahmama Organization for human Rights and Development is a non-profit and non-governmental organization founded by Afghan experts. We believe that development goes hand in hand with social transformation and we are committed to remove cultural barriers to narrow gender segregation and gender apartheid to have a better and just world. 

Our main areas of work are initiatives with long-term changes in Afghan society through cultural transformation and bottom-up engagement of all citizens. Shahmana believes that social development is the precondition for economic growth and without meaningful participation of all walks of society there would be no sustainable peace and healthy political structure. 

Vision

Shahmama envisions a future where the plight of women in Afghanistan is transformed from the current inhumane conditions to a state of safety and social equality. It aims to overcome the unbearable situation through cultural restoration and establishment of human societal norms.

Goal

The goal of Shahmama is to rekindle the cultural legacy represented by the historical figures of Shahmama and Salsal in Afghanistan. It seeks to restore a society where cultural and social virtues coexist, mirroring the historical significance of these reversed symbols.

Mission

Shahmama is dedicated to bring a fundamental change for the women situation through a multifaceted approaches. This includes promoting Women’s rights and development initiatives including short-term training, and skill development programs, as well as increasing public awareness and advocating for the rights and elevated expectations of Afghan women, both within and outside of Afghanistan