ISLAMABAD: The Government of Japan has approved a total grant of up to USD 194,493 (approximately PKR 54 million) to support three local NGOs for their development initiatives in Pakistan.
The grant agreements were signed on November 6, 2024, at the Embassy of Japan in Islamabad between WADA Mitsuhiro, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, and representatives from the three recipient organizations: Friends Welfare Association, Al Khidmat Foundation Pakistan, and Al Mezan Islamic Model Secondary School.
Friends Welfare Association will receive a grant of USD 59,764 (around PKR 16.64 million) to implement a new water supply project in a remote area of Mansehra District.
The initiative will benefit 6,000 people, or approximately 895 households, by providing access to clean drinking water through the construction of water tanks and the establishment of water supply lines. This project aims to reduce the burden on women and children who currently spend hours collecting water.
Al Mezan Islamic Model Secondary School has been granted USD 64,528 (roughly PKR 17.87 million) to build a road and supporting bridges over a major water channel, ensuring safe and reliable access for schoolchildren.
The project will benefit 2,540 people, or around 300 households, by improving their ability to travel to the city, markets, and healthcare facilities.
Al Khidmat Foundation Pakistan will receive a grant of USD 70,201 (approximately PKR 19.5 million) for a water filtration project aimed at providing clean drinking water to residents of Faisalabad’s industrial area.
The project will see the installation of seven water filtration plants in Faisalabad and Okara, benefiting about 2,870 people and helping to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases.
At the signing ceremony, Ambassador WADA Mitsuhiro expressed his hope that these projects, in partnership with local communities, would have a significant positive impact on improving the living standards of people in Pakistan, particularly at the grassroots level.
He also reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to providing flexible and timely support to local NGOs to enhance the well-being of the Pakistani population.