A project, launched in April 2023, to help restore the livelihoods of over 141,000 flood-affected individuals was successfully completed in December 2024.
The closing ceremony of the Community-led Flood Rehabilitation and Restoration in Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provinces was held in Islamabad on December 19, 2024, to mark the conclusion of this vital initiative, which was supported by the Government of Japan in partnership with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and Pakistan’s federal and provincial governments.
The project was an integral part of UNDP’s Pakistan Flood Recovery Program, which launched in April 2023 to aid the most vulnerable populations affected by the catastrophic floods of 2022.
With a generous contribution of USD 4.6 million from Japan, the initiative focused on six of the hardest-hit districts: Dera Ismail Khan, Naseerabad, Jafarabad, Dadu, Larkana, and Jacobabad.
Empowering Communities and Reviving Livelihoods
The project reached over 141,000 individuals, with nearly half of the beneficiaries being women, who were among the most severely affected by the disaster. Through various interventions, the initiative helped restore local livelihoods and improve access to essential services.
Key achievements included the revival of micro-enterprises, the distribution of 20,000 agricultural toolkits, and the provision of 6,000 health and hygiene kits. In addition, 2,000 solar energy systems and 2,000 water filtration systems were installed to ensure safe living conditions for flood-affected households.
Addressing the ceremony, the Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, Akamatsu Shuichi stated that the initiative has been crucial in restoring safety, dignity, and the ability to earn a livelihood in the flood-affected regions.
“We believe that such a holistic approach is critical to bringing sustainability and resilience in the most vulnerable communities in Pakistan. With the increasing climate risks, community resilience to the impact of disasters and emergency situations is the cornerstone of remaining on track for sustainable development pathway in Pakistan,” the Japanese Ambassador said.
During the ceremony, Ms. Nasira Batool, Joint Secretary at Pakistan’s Economic Affairs Division, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Japan for its support and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to long-term recovery and resilience.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Japan for their unwavering friendship, and to UNDP for their exceptional contributions. This initiative has provided essential relief and long term resilience to over 141,000 people across Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this project’s success. Together, we have proven that unity and determination can overcome even the greatest challenges,” she remarked.
A Foundation for Sustainable Recovery
The successful implementation of the project has laid a solid foundation for continued recovery in Pakistan. By restoring livelihoods, improving living conditions, and empowering communities, the initiative not only addressed immediate needs but also contributed to building long-term resilience.
UNDP Pakistan’s Resident Representative, Dr. Samuel Rizk, highlighted the enduring impact of the project. “This project stands as a testament to the resilience of flood-affected communities in overcoming hardship and adversity. Together, we have supported the implementation of locally-led solutions that not only restore hope but also empower these communities as they rebuild their lives and livelihoods in the aftermath of the floods,” Rizk stated.
While the project has officially concluded, its positive effects will continue to resonate in the affected regions, ensuring that the most vulnerable communities remain on the path to recovery and self-sufficiency.