UNIDO plans $40m uplift programme for Sindh

Initiative to focus on rural livelihoods, climate-resilient infrastructure and jobs for youth

KARACHI:

The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) plans to mobilise around $40 million for a dedicated development programme in Sindh, with a focus on inclusive economic growth, climate-resilient infrastructure, rural development and employment generation.

The proposed programme will be developed under UNIDO's Programme for Country Partnership (PCP) 2025-30, following an agreement between Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and a delegation led by UNIDO Deputy Director General and Managing Director Fatou Haidara at the Chief Minister House on Thursday.

The meeting also reviewed progress on the European Union-funded Poverty Alleviation and Inclusive Development in Rural Sindh (PAIDAR) programme, with both sides agreeing to expand successful initiatives and explore new avenues of cooperation to improve livelihoods in disadvantaged communities.

The chief minister welcomed UNIDO's continued partnership with the provincial government, particularly its support for rural communities, enterprise development and climate-resilient infrastructure following the devastating 2022 floods.

Planning and Development Minister Jam Khan Shoro told the meeting that PAIDAR was being implemented with a €49.55 million grant from the European Union across Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Tharparkar and Larkana. The programme aims to reduce poverty, strengthen local economies, improve public services and create employment opportunities for women and young people.

It provides financial grants and technical assistance to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), alongside investments in rural infrastructure and community facilities.

Chief Minister's Special Assistant on Investment Syed Qasim Naveed cited examples of beneficiaries who had turned financial assistance into viable businesses, including a woman who opened a restaurant in Badin and an entrepreneur who established a pasta manufacturing unit linked to a flour mill in Larkana.

He said targeted financial support, business development assistance and improved market access could stimulate economic activity and generate jobs in rural areas.