Quetta, 22 August 2023 (TDI): The World Food Programme (WFP) Pakistan and the Government of Balochistan have solidified their partnership to jointly tackle food insecurity and promote sustainable development in the region.
This strengthened collaboration aligns with WFP Pakistan’s ambitious five-year Country Strategic Plan (CSP) spanning from 2023 to 2027.
Under the visionary leadership of WFP Pakistan’s Country Director and Representative, Chris Kaye, and Hafiz Abdul Basit, Additional Chief Secretary of the Planning and Development Department, Government of Balochistan, a significant agreement was sealed during a momentous ceremony held in Quetta.
This alliance entails a comprehensive approach. WFP commits to translating plans into tangible actions that resonate with the priorities of the Government of Balochistan.
The organization will seamlessly offer technical expertise, aiding pertinent government departments and optimizing resource mobilization to bring these strategic plans to fruition.
The distinctive direction adopted by WFP Pakistan, as highlighted by Chris Kaye, involves systematic engagement with various ministries and provincial entities throughout Pakistan.
This approach utilizes their extensive field experience and academic expertise, resulting in the successful implementation of the most comprehensive nationwide stunting prevention programme.
Additionally, he also mentioned that the tangible impact of the stunting prevention programme is being made through collaboration with the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, the federal Benazir Income Support Programme directorate, and the provincial health departments.
The significance of the WFP-Balochistan partnership is underscored by Hafiz Abdul Basit, who acknowledges the pivotal role attributed to the WFP.
In his statement, he notes that the WFP is regarded as a strategic ally by the Government of Balochistan, playing a substantial role in extending outreach to vulnerable communities.
This landmark agreement follows the resounding approval of WFP’s CSP for the next five years by the Economic Affairs Division.
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A testament to both parties’ commitment, this step is poised to usher in a new era of proactive efforts to address food insecurity within Pakistan.
The collaboration resonates with WFP’s overarching strategy, which strategically seeks to address the multifaceted challenges posed by food insecurity in Pakistan.
As the partnership between WFP Pakistan and the Government of Balochistan takes flight, hope soars for a more secure and prosperous future for the region.
