Made in Libya

Even during times when it was uncommon for women to pursue careers, Libyan women have always been known to be creators, designers, chefs and artisans, often mastering their crafts at home and passing them through generations. There’s a Libyan proverb that says, “Better a skill in your hands than wealth from your ancestors.” This saying becomes more evident in difficult times, when many women must rely on their own talents to support their families.  

They turn their “Sana’a” – their skill -- into sustenance.  

Libyan women have long worked quietly from their homes—sewing in dimly lit rooms after putting their children to bed, crafting tea spread cloths to sell, preparing traditional Holi, or making date-filled ma’moul in their kitchens for a wedding just down the street. These hard-working women, while making a comfortable living from the convenience of their own homes, rarely see their labours of love make a ripple beyond their neighbourhoods and towns, and even fewer have the chance to celebrate them on a national, let alone regional, stage. 

Women’s participation in local and regional economies is vital for diversification and growth—especially for Libyan women, who remain underrepresented in African forums and in non-Arabic-speaking contexts.

In May 2025, this was on full display in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where over 400 participants gathered for the 6th COMESA Federation of Women in Business (COMFWB) an event designed to promote women’s role in regional trade.  

With support from UNDP Libya, three Libyan entrepreneurs—Souad, Awatef, and Rabea—were given the opportunity to showcase their businesses regionally, gaining technical guidance and an exhibition space to spotlight their craftsmanship, in Spice-making, Crochet and Fashion Design.  

Souad Sulaiman: The Business-savvy Spice Maker

Souad Sulaiman, a former academic who found her path as an entrepreneur by a stroke of generosity, is the founder of Jasmin Alsham Spices. She is a spice-maker who grew up surrounded by passionate cooks. She recalls with a smile: ‘I was always considered the best cook in my family.’

She began in this business by making spices for her family and occasionally gifting batches of spice mixes to friends. One friend suggested she sell them more widely, which sparked her professional journey.

Souad got her professional start at a local bazaar, where her entire first batch of spices sold out. The immediate demand for her unique blends confirmed her path. Today, she continues to build her business, supplying supermarkets across Tripoli, driven by the same passion that first led her to the kitchen. 

Her participation in COMESA allowed her to showcase her spices on a wider regional stage, providing a unique opportunity to test people’s palates and represent Libya. “When we showcased our products in Ethiopia, people were impressed with what we made and started buying from us.” 

Today, this is her way of making a living for her four children, for whom she is the main supporter.

Awatef Sbeta: The Delicate Crocheter 

Awatef Sbeta, the founder of Nomanamat, learned the intricate art of crochet from a friend. For her, it was never just a hobby—it became a source of joy and purpose. A self-proclaimed perfectionist, Sbeta finesses every fibre with precision.  

Long before she was widowed, she was a driven and creative working woman receiving compliments about her work more than praise; they affirmed the beauty she was creating.

“When I crochet,” she says, “I feel removed from my worries. It’s my own world.” 

Awatef believes that Libyan women have always been creators, even if they didn't always monetize their craft. “Our mothers are artists by nature,” she reflects. 

“They sewed their tea cloths and handled their furashiyas delicately. They poured their passion and soul into everything they made.” This legacy runs through Awatef’s spirit as she continues a cultural tradition of creation and care.   

Sbeta was recognized among the top three in a highly competitive category at the COMFWB Annual Awards for her outstanding 2-year-old crochet project, Nomanamat.  

“It was a complete surprise.” she says, “I truly didn’t expect it, and it left me with the drive to keep going.” Self-aware about her journey and how she got where she did, she continues:  

“I made it here, but how many people are lucky enough to attend such events and get that kind of support to move forward?”  

Rabea Ben Barka: The Fervent Fashion Designer

 Rabea Ben Barka is a designer with a passion for reimagining traditional Libyan wear. The first in her generation, her work honours heritage while infusing it with a modern sensibility.  

“Since I was young, I’ve been drawn to fashion design,” she says. Her grandfather opened Libya’s first textile factory in 1943, producing robes and traditional clothing, and his legacy inspired her path. 
 “I want to work in Libya because I studied with the goal of giving back to my country.”

Traveling across all regions of Libya, she gained a deep understanding of the diverse styles and traditions. That experience sparked an idea: to modernize the traditional Libyan dress, reimagining it with fresh, innovative designs.

For Rabea, design is not just about clothing; it's about identity and national pride.” 

With UNDP’s support, these three women brought their skills to a regional stage, proving that Libya’s entrepreneurs have much to offer. As Rabea put it:

"My message to every young man and woman with a business idea is to master your craft, just as my talented colleagues Souad and Awatef have done. That’s how we move from importing to exporting. We want to produce rather than consume. We want the world to recognize our work. And we want to proudly say: ‘Made in Libya.’