Khovd, Mongolia — Women

Khovd, a province located in the far western region of Mongolia, is home to a diverse and resilient community of women who play a pivotal role in the social, economic, and cultural fabric of the region. These women have a rich history and a dynamic present that are shaped by their nomadic lifestyle, traditional roles, and the winds of change blowing through their remote corner of the world.

Mongolia, a country known for its vast landscapes and nomadic culture, has a unique gender dynamic. Women in Khovd are integral to the traditional herding lifestyle that has sustained the Mongolian people for centuries. They are often responsible for managing the family’s livestock, which includes horses, yaks, sheep, and goats. These women exhibit remarkable competence and expertise in animal husbandry, ensuring the well-being of their herds, and consequently, the survival of their families. They master horsemanship, an essential skill in this part of the world, and their connection to their horses is an emblematic symbol of Mongolian culture.

In addition to their responsibilities on the steppes, women in Khovd are also involved in household management. They are skilled in making traditional Mongolian dairy products like airag (fermented mare’s milk) and aaruul (dried cheese curds), which are crucial components of the Mongolian diet. Women often shoulder the daily responsibilities of the…