From Recovery to Resilience: China and UNDP Support over 137,500 Flood-Affected People in Balochistan
Islamabad, 8 September 2025 – (Adnan Hameed) : A closing ceremony in Islamabad marked the completion of the “Support to Flood-Affected Areas in Balochistan of Pakistan” project, which has helped nearly 137,500 people in Jaffarabad and Kacchi rebuild their lives after the devastating 2022 floods. Funded by the Government of China through the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund and implemented under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Flood Recovery Programme (FRP) in partnership with the Government of Balochistan, the project represents a significant milestone in Pakistan’s flood recovery journey.
The project helped restore livelihoods through the provision of agricultural toolkits, seeds, fertilizers, gardening and embroidery kits. Additionally, over 3,000 participants were equipped with business management skills, agricultural techniques, and knowledge of disaster preparedness through 100 capacity-building and 105 mentoring sessions. Nearly half of all beneficiaries were women, who gained new income opportunities and stronger social and economic inclusion.
Speaking on the occasion, Yang Guangyuan, Minister Counsellor of the Embassy of China in Pakistan, highlighted the broader vision behind this support: “Through the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund, China is committed to working with partners to deliver practical solutions to the challenges facing developing countries, says press note. This project has demonstrated how ‘small yet smart’ interventions can bring real change to people’s lives, reviving livelihoods, restoring dignity, and building resilience in Balochistan.”
Through collaboration with local partners providing responsive on-ground assistance to affected communities, the project embodies an ethos of shared responsibility and cooperation.
In his remarks, Deputy Secretary-UN Desk, Economic Affairs Division, Government of Pakistan, appreciated the long-standing partnership of Governments of Pakistan and China, noting the project’s alignment with the government’s long-term development strategy: “We are grateful for the solidarity of China and the technical leadership of UNDP, which together have brought timely support to some of the most vulnerable families in Balochistan.”
The project’s impact extends well beyond its completion. By equipping communities with essential tools, knowledge, and confidence, it has laid the foundation for stronger local economies and resilient livelihoods in Balochistan and contributed to Pakistan’s journey toward a climate-resilient and inclusive future.
Reaffirming UNDP’s commitment, Dr. Samuel Rizk, Resident Representative, UNDP Pakistan, said: “This support uses livelihoods recovery as a springboard to help families rebuild with dignity and resilience. Pakistan’s recent floods are a reminder that recovery is not just about recovering what was lost but about building stronger futures. With the support of China, and working with local partners, this initiative is an investment in the people and future of Balochistan, and a reaffirmation of UNDP’s commitment to resilient recovery across the province and the country.”
Asif Ali Farukh Secretary Planning, Planning & Development Department, conveyed the provincial government’s appreciation for the support: “This initiative has played an important role in reviving agriculture and small businesses in Jaffarabad and Kacchi and empowered many women to stand on their feet once again. We are grateful for China’s solidarity and UNDP’s technical leadership for this timely support to some of the most vulnerable families in our province.”
