Islamabad, UN Women, in partnership with the Government of Japan, held a showcase event in Karachi to celebrate the achievements of the Women’s Socio-Economic Resilience Project. The project focused on providing crucial relief and protection services to women and girls in areas of Pakistan affected by floods in 2022, aiming to bolster their resilience in emergencies.

According to United Nation Pakistan, the initiative was funded by a $1.85 million grant from the Government of Japan. The project targeted women in nine districts across Balochistan, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, delivering women-focused humanitarian services during the flood crisis.

Muhammad Asghar Memon, Secretary of the Planning and Development Department of the Government of Sindh, emphasized the timeliness and impact of Japan’s support. He noted that the assistance played a vital role in providing essential services to women and girls in the affected areas, allowing them to take leadership roles within their communities. Memon highlighted this support as a symbol of the strong relationship between Pakistan and Japan.

Mr. Hattori Masaru, Consul General of Japan in Karachi, reiterated Japan’s commitment to women’s rights and the fight against gender-based violence. He praised the partnership with UN Women, which has facilitated safety, protection, and empowerment of flood-affected women and girls. Masaru commended UN Women for their dedication to promoting women’s leadership and inclusive development in Pakistan.

Sharmeela Rassool, UN Women Representative in Pakistan, expressed gratitude to the Japanese Government for their financial support. She underscored the significance of this collaboration in ensuring the well-being and empowerment of women and girls facing adversities, contributing to gender equality and women’s empowerment in the humanitarian-peace-development context.

The Japanese funding supported the delivery of essential humanitarian services, including psychosocial support, awareness-raising about gender-based violence, assistance for survivors, help with civic documentation, and entrepreneurship development. Additionally, women received mother kits, baby kits, and inclusion kits as part of the relief efforts.