WaterAid Pakistan Unveils its Country Programme Strategy 2023-2028 in Lahore, Pakistan
In a landmark event held in Lahore, WaterAid Pakistan unveiled its visionary Country Programme Strategy for the period 2023–2028.
This strategy is designed to expedite Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) progress in the country, placing a strong emphasis on enhancing the resilience of water, sanitation, and hygiene services in the face of climate change. Moreover, the strategy aims to prioritise WASH integration within the health sector to significantly bolster public health outcomes.
The launch brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including representatives from academia, community-based organisations, media, government, and more. The caretaker health minister of Punjab, Professor Dr. Javed Akram honoured the occasion as the chief guest.
The Health Minister shed light on the critical need for health facilities to combat diarrheal diseases and ensure better healthcare infrastructure which is all inclusive. The Minister called for concerted efforts to improve health facilities and address water-related health challenges in the community and extended the full support of government.
Other Distinguished guests included: Mr Abdul Rauf Mahar, Deputy Commissioner Lodhran District, Mr. Nisar Saani, Director Operations PDMA, and Clara Strandhoj, Head of Lahore Office, UK High Commission.
Deputy Commissioner Lohdran, Abdul Rauf Mahar emphasised the urgent need for support, particularly in the selection of Lodhran as a focus area. He stressed the importance of collective efforts to address water-related issues in the region.
Clara Strandhoj, Head of Lahore Office, UK High Commission, focused on the global context, discussing the upcoming COP 28 and the need for improved governance in the water sector. She emphasised the importance of collaborative initiatives to achieve sustainable water management goals.
Arif Jabbar Khan, Country Director, WaterAid Pakistan, expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders who attended the event and reaffirms WaterAid's commitment to working hand in hand with local communities, government bodies, and organisations to ensure access to clean water and sanitation for all.