Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 19 April 2021

FAO

PRESS RELEASE

Strengthening rural market opportunities for smallholder farmers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Peshawar: The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations’ Representative a.i. in Pakistan, Rebekah Bell, met with Nafeesa Khattak, Member National Assembly and Mansoor Khattak, Deputy Commissioner of Khyber District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The parties discussed the rural market opportunities for farmers in the newly merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the challenges faced by farmers and traders in Khyber whose markets are in Afghanistan. It was highlighted that FAO will continue to work with the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and development partners to strengthen the economy in the newly merged districts, by improving commercial agriculture production and businesses as well as developing better cross border market linkages for farmers and traders.

“The federal government is actively working on strengthening Pakistan’s trade relationship with Afghanistan, including improving the performance of border agencies, better border infrastructure and improving border clearance procedures. Improving agriculture production in the merged districts and connecting small holder farmers with markets in Pakistan and Afghanistan is a priority for the federal government,” said Nafeesa Khattak. 

FAO Representative a.i, Rebekah Bell stated that “FAO has a long standing relationship with the federal and provincial governments in support of the farmers of the merged districts.  FAO, with the provincial agriculture and livestock departments, are assisting farmers in achieving better agriculture production outcomes and stronger market linkages in an effort to significantly increase farmer income levels. We look forward to deepening our work with the federal and provincial governments in support of strengthening cross border trade opportunities for small holder farmers.

FAO through various interventions in the merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is contributing to the economic growth of the region by providing improved agriculture inputs and farmer field schools as well as improved access to information for smallholder farmers. With the goal of better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, FAO is committed to transform the food systems and respond to the emerging needs and priorities of the small holder farmers.

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UNDP

PRESS RELEASE

UNDP and Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) sign an MOU to uplift parks, infrastructure and environment of Karachi

Islamabad, April 19, 2021—UNDP and Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC)  have signed an MOU to collaborate on uplifting of parks, infrastructure and environment of Karachi. The MoU was signed virtually by UNDP Pakistan Resident Representative Mr Knut Ostby and Administrator KMC, Mr Laeeq Ahmed. As per the MoU, UNDP will support KMC's Parks and Horticulture department to enhance and focus on  economic growth, urban and infrastructure development, environmental improvement, solid waste management, health and education.

Speaking at the occasion, UNDP Resident Representative Mr Knut Ostby said that, "UNDP and Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) have signed an MOU to promote sustainable development, with a keen focus on decent work and economic growth, sustainable cities and communities, and climate action. We will be working together to engage private sector participation for sustainable development."

"The participation of international development agencies and civil society in the process of development and prosperity of Karachi is welcoming," said the Administrator. In a metropolitan city like Karachi, environmental pollution is a major issue especially in industrial areas, adding that various measures are being taken to address them, including tree plantation. "We want to take full advantage of UNDP's experience and expertise for uplifting parks, infrastructure and combating environmental issues," he added.

For additional information, please contact Ayesha Babar at ayesha.babar@undp.org  or +92 (51) 835 5650