Sardar's Cosmetics Business

Sardar lived in Norway for almost three years before deciding to return to Afghanistan with IOM Norway’s former IRRANA project.

​The initial 5 000 km journey between Kabul and Oslo was fraught with danger.  Sardar paid 17 000 to get to Scandinavia, and within just ten months of arriving his asylum application was rejected. Unable to work legally, and suffering from kidney problems he decided to return.

​As part of the IRRANA project Sardar received a 25 000 NOK business start-up grant to help him get back on his feet. "I didn’t know the first thing about business", said Sardar, "but IOM gave me good advice and showed me what business opportunities were out there. Finally I decided to open a cosmetics shop; my research showed that the beauty industry is one of the most profitable sectors in Afghanistan."

​"It was hard to find work when I first arrived home, but the assistance from IOM has helped me resettle. I’m happy to be back with my family, and I have no plans to migrate again."