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 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, Chakwal. The center will provide 24-hour safe delivery services, emergency obstetric care, and neonatal services, offering subsidized care 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.

Saibaan Development Organization will receive USD 30,199 (PKR 8.4 million) for the improvement of a link road in Village Makrriha, Mansehra. The project includes road pavement and construction of protection walls, enhancing mobility and safety for local residents. It is expected to benefit more than 2,400 direct beneficiaries, along with thousands of indirect beneficiaries, by improving access to healthcare, education, and markets.

At the signing ceremony, Ambassador Akamatsu highlighted Japan’s decades-long cooperation with Pakistan in addressing basic human needs, including health, education, and infrastructure development. He emphasized that the GGP Program provides direct, community-level assistance through local NGOs to respond to grassroots needs.

Ambassador Akamatsu further noted that basic services and infrastructure form the foundation of sustainable development and human security, reflecting Japan’s development experience. As a steadfast friend of Pakistan, Japan will continue supporting capable local NGOs, aiming to improve the daily lives and wellbeing of people at the grassroots level across the country.