ISLAMABAD: The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on Sunday unveiled a dynamic portfolio of forty diverse projects strategically dispersed across different regions of Pakistan.
These initiatives, with varying scopes, target audiences, and financial parameters, highlight the FAO’s commitment to fortifying the agriculture and food security sectors in the country.
The Country Representative Florence Rolle and Assistant FAOR (Programs) Dr. Aamer Irshad underscored the proactive role of the FAO in numerous initiatives and programs aimed at strengthening the agriculture and food security sectors in Pakistan. These initiatives span a spectrum, including increasing agricultural productivity and sustainability, supporting livestock and fisheries development, and implementing food security programs to alleviate hunger and malnutrition.
The FAO’s involvement extends beyond traditional agricultural support. It actively engages in sustainable natural resource management, providing humanitarian aid during emergencies and collaborating closely with the government on policy development.
Moreover, the FAO supports research and innovation while helping Pakistan adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.
FAO’s 2023–2027 Priorities in Pakistan
Rolle outlined FAO’s 2023–2027 priorities with Pakistan, such as increasing food availability, improving agricultural value chains, and strengthening climate-responsive planning. The focus includes climate frameworks, support for enterprises, nutrition policy, disease control, and women’s empowerment in agriculture.
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She said that project selection is based on a thorough consultative process, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023–2027. The FAO’s Country Programming Framework for 2023–2027 involves consultations with relevant ministries, departments, UN agencies, academia, and resource partners at both federal and provincial levels.
Underlining the FAO’s commitment to accountability, Rolle highlighted the presence of a robust monitoring and evaluation system with units in Islamabad and across provinces. This system plays an important role in shaping program effectiveness by providing guidance based on lessons learned.
