Helvetas Country Director Holds Meeting with Governor
Published on: June 14, 2024.
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Enhancing Developmental Efforts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Helvetas Swiss Collaborates with KPK Government
In a significant move towards boosting developmental efforts in the province, Dr Arjumand Nizami, the country director of Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation, recently met with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi at the Governor House. The meeting, attended by Munawar Khan Khattak, provincial coordinator for KP, and Syed Nadeem Bukhari, senior program officer from Helvetas, aimed to highlight the organization’s longstanding association with the province since 1982.
Past and Ongoing Development Projects
During the meeting, Dr Arjumand provided a comprehensive briefing to the governor, shedding light on Helvetas’ past and ongoing development projects in KP. The organization has been actively involved in poverty alleviation and agricultural productivity initiatives. Notable projects in DI Khan and Tank districts, focusing on hill torrent management and disaster risk reduction, have made a significant impact on the farming communities in these areas.
Dr Arjumand emphasized the increased visibility and attention these projects have brought to the Rudh Kohi areas, potentially attracting national-level funding. Additionally, she highlighted Helvetas’ continued support to communities affected by the 2022 floods, including the construction of safe housing and drinking water supply schemes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh provinces.
Climate-Smart and Water-Efficient Agriculture
Helvetas’ pioneering role in climate-smart and water-efficient agriculture was also discussed during the meeting. Dr Arjumand mentioned the organization’s support to the Government of KP in developing the integrated water resource management (IWRM) strategy, the agro-ecological zone study of KP, and the promotion of vertical farming.
In recognition of Helvetas Swiss’ expertise in climate-change and water-efficient agriculture, the organization has been appointed as the convenor of the Sustainable Rice Platform in Pakistan. This platform aims to promote the production of high-quality rice in Pakistan that meets international market standards.
Interest in Skill-Building Initiatives
Governor Kundi expressed keen interest in Helvetas’ skill-building initiatives and workplace safety measures for young employees in Peshawar. The organization’s commitment to empowering the youth through training and providing a safe working environment was well-received.
With Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation’s unwavering dedication to supporting development in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the province can look forward to continued progress and prosperity.
