Islamabad (TDI): The UK’s Sub-National Governance Program (2019–2025) has unlocked more than £1.9 billion in public funds by improving planning, budgeting, and revenue mobilization across Pakistan’s provinces.
Working in partnership with provincial governments, the program has generated savings that can be reinvested into public services.
One major achievement was supporting Punjab in developing a comprehensive pension reform plan. The new scheme, where both employers and employees contribute, is projected to save the provincial government Rs.2.7 trillion over the next three decades.
The reforms have also had a direct impact on people’s lives. In Punjab, the collection of social and economic data for 35 million citizens has enabled more targeted cash assistance and food subsidies.
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The program contributed to the design and rollout of initiatives such as Ba-Himmat Buzurg, which offers financial support to elderly citizens with no income, and the Himmat Card, which assists people with disabilities.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the program supported a major upgrade in waste management, introducing sustainable door-to-door collection, an initiative now being expanded province-wide.
British High Commission Development Director, Sam Waldock, said the program demonstrates what can be achieved through strong partnerships and long-term reforms.
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“We’ve strengthened institutions, improved service delivery, and helped Pakistan unlock more resources to finance its own development. These changes have made a tangible difference, from enabling access to vital cash assistance to creating cleaner, more hygienic environments,” Waldock said.
“The UK’s governance reform efforts in Pakistan will continue in partnership with the UN Development Program, with a focus on institutional reform and public financial management.”
Key initiatives, such as further provincial pension reforms, will be carried forward under the UK’s new National Governance Program.
Sohail Majeed
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
