Islamabad: The Government of Japan, under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) Program, has approved a grant of USD 85,429 (PKR 23.9 million) to two local NGOs for development initiatives in District Chakwal, Punjab, and District Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The grant contracts were signed at the Embassy of Japan in Islamabad between Ambassador H.E. Mr. AKAMATSU Shuichi and representatives of the two NGOs, Bin Qutab Foundation and Saibaan Development Organization.
Bin Qutab Foundation will receive USD 55,230 (PKR 15.5 million) for the construction of a Maternal and Child Healthcare Center at Begum Noor Memorial Hospital in rural Chakwal. The center will be equipped to provide 24-hour safe delivery, emergency obstetric care, and neonatal services, offering subsidized services to the needy. The project is expected to benefit over 10,000 patients annually and promote family planning awareness, significantly improving maternal and child health outcomes.
Saibaan Development Organization will receive USD 30,199 (PKR 8.4 million) for the improvement of a link road in Village Makrriha, District Mansehra. The project involves pavement of the road and construction of protection walls, enhancing mobility and safety for local residents. It is expected to benefit more than 2,400 direct beneficiaries and thousands of indirect beneficiaries by improving access to healthcare, education, and markets.
At the signing ceremony, Ambassador Akamatsu emphasized Japan’s longstanding cooperation with Pakistan in addressing basic human needs, including health, education, and infrastructure development. He highlighted that the GGP Program focuses on direct, community-level assistance through local NGOs to respond to grassroots needs.
Ambassador Akamatsu added that basic services and infrastructure form the foundation of sustainable development and human security, reflecting Japan’s own development experience. As a committed partner, Japan will continue to support capable local NGOs, aiming to improve the daily lives and wellbeing of people at the grassroots level across Pakistan.