-
Glacial Melt Water Security Crisis: Hindu Kush-Pamir Technical Assessment 2025-2030
- November 5, 2025
- Posted by: HBC Insights
- Categories: Central Asia, Competitive Research, Sustainability & Impact
No Comments
Hindu Kush-Pamir glaciers are retreating 65% faster than the previous decade, threatening 2 billion people across 16 countries. This comprehensive technical assessment reveals a $6.2-9.5 billion annual financing gap and strategic adaptation pathways for Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Read the full analysis from Horizon Bridge Consulting.
-
Afghan Women Transform Social Media into E-commerce Platforms
- October 20, 2025
- Posted by: HBC Insights
- Categories: Central Asia, Competitive Research, Digital & Technology, Innovation, Market Entry & Growth, Policy & Economic Impact, Research & Insights, South Asia, Women's Empowerment
New HBC research maps 82 online businesses and interviews 70 Afghan women entrepreneurs who turned Instagram and WhatsApp into full e-commerce channels after 2021, revealing strong growth, specific skill gaps, and clear opportunities for targeted donor interventions.
-
Islamic Microfinance in Afghanistan: Market Assessment & Strategic Opportunity
- October 10, 2025
- Posted by: HBC Insights
- Categories: Case Studies, Central Asia, Competitive Research, Financial Services Consulting, Global & Emerging Markets, Policy & Economic Impact, Research & Insights, South Asia
Afghanistan’s microfinance sector contracted 91% between 2021-2023. Only 10% of the population has access to formal financial services. Yet amidst economic collapse—27% GDP contraction, $9 billion frozen central bank assets, and severe deflation—a counterintuitive signal emerged: Islamic microfinance products recorded 100% repayment rates.
-
From 1,000 to 500,000: When Demand Redefines a Training Program
- December 31, 2024
- Posted by: HBC Insights
- Categories: Case Studies, Central Asia, Digital & Technology, Innovation, Women's Empowerment
A training initiative designed for 1,000 learners unexpectedly reached over 500,000 youth, reshaping expectations and outcomes. With 300+ trained participants, 37% learning improvement, and 25+ employment placements, this UNDP-supported program demonstrates how strong demand, employer engagement, and hybrid delivery models can scale youth skills development in Afghanistan.
-
HBC Partners with AQMesh to Enhance Air Quality Monitoring in Kabul
- December 16, 2021
- Posted by: HBC Insights
- Categories: Central Asia, Data & Analytics, International, Sustainability & Impact
