Amman, August 6 (Petra) Against a backdrop rich with the scent of za’atar (thyme) and ghee, the 2025 Annual Exhibition of Cooperative and Charitable Associations tells the story of Jordanian women who have blended traditional culinary craftsmanship with modern marketing tools to transform homemade pantry staples into thriving economic ventures that empower women and foster community development.
The exhibition features an array of artisanal products offered by participating associations, including homemade ghee, labneh, and shrak bread prepared using traditional methods from fresh milk to eye-catching packaging in a meticulously handcrafted production process.
Hasna Al-Essa, a representative of one of the associations, told the Jordan News Agency (Petra) that social media has been a game-changer for local cooperatives, allowing them to reach markets both within Jordan and across the Arab world. This has not only boosted demand for their handmade goods but also created economic opportunities for women in underserved areas.
The Maghayir Mahna Women’s Charity is showcasing traditional Jordanian and Palestinian dishes such as mansaf, yalangi (stuffed grape leaves), pickles, and traditional sweets, all while preserving their authentic flavors.
One participant noted that visual documentation through photos and videos of the preparation process has driven up online orders, especially for banquets and special occasions.
In the capital, Amman, the “Reihanat Al-Usra” (Family Basil) Association, led by Lubna Al-Asaad, combines charitable work with food production, offering goods such as traditional cookies, za’atar, and seasonal pantry staples. Spokeswoman Dima Muslim explained that proceeds from sales are used to support the association’s social programs, including orphan sponsorships and Eid clothing drives, while adhering strictly to hygiene and quality standards.
Meanwhile, the Al-Arda Women’s Association is offering natural therapeutic products derived from wild herbs native to the Balqa mountains such as artemisia, ketila, wormwood, and jada. Representative Raja Kharabsheh noted growing demand for these remedies, which are shipped across Jordan, supported by effective online marketing campaigns.
The exhibition provides a vibrant platform for showcasing inspiring women’s journeys from milking cows to serving mansaf, or from foraging wild herbs to crafting traditional healing salves. It offers a compelling model that both preserves and evolves heritage in line with market needs.
The Ministry of Social Development continues to support cooperative and charitable associations through direct and indirect funding, vocational training, business development, and marketing support. It also facilitates their participation in local exhibitions to promote women’s economic inclusion, foster social solidarity, and open new pathways for self-empowerment, particularly in underserved communities.
//Petra// AF
06/08/2025 20:46:22
