UNICEF, govt discuss climate, food security

PM aide calls for promotion of climate-resilient practices, adoption of African crop strategy

ISLAMABAD:

UNICEF Representative in Pakistan Abdullah A Fadil met with Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam, on Monday, according to a press statement. They discussed critical issues related to climate change, food security, and the protection of vulnerable populations, particularly children.

The meeting underscored the importance of joint efforts between the government and international organisations to combat the impacts of climate-related disasters, including droughts and extreme weather events.

As per the statement, they emphasised the severe challenges posed by climate change, which have exacerbated food insecurity in Pakistan. Alam highlighted that food security is one of the greatest challenges of the future, as increasing droughts and climate variability threaten agriculture, disrupt food production, and exacerbate water shortages across the country.

To address this, she called for widespread promotion of climate-resilient agricultural practices, including planting three fruit trees—avocado, orange, and banana—at every household. This initiative, she explained, would help meet food security challenges while contributing to environmental sustainability, the statement read.

The meeting included a discussion of global best practices, with Alam citing African countries that have integrated crops like banana, avocado, and citrus into their economies. "These crops are now being exported to lucrative markets in Europe and the Middle East, providing African nations with significant economic benefits," she said.

Alam emphasised empowering young girls with climate-resilient skills. Referring to her meeting with Dr Haddy of ICESCO, she highlighted the need for green-skilled education programs for girls to prepare them for climate challenges.