WaterAid Pakistan marked the culmination of its three-year urban water initiative, funded by the PepsiCo Foundation, with a closing ceremony on Tuesday. The program, implemented in Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta since 2022, has enhanced access to potable water for vulnerable urban populations, schools, and healthcare centers. Tens of thousands have benefited directly from water filtration installations, hygiene education, and the establishment of local Water User Committees.
Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah emphasized water and sanitation as a fundamental right and advocated for increased responsibility. ‘WASH is crucial for human dignity, learning, and well-being. Every child deserves clean water and proper sanitation,” he stated, urging collaboration and accountability among government, civil society, and individuals to create climate-resilient and inclusive systems.
WaterAid Pakistan Country Director Mian Muhammad Junaid highlighted the project”s success in demonstrating the effectiveness of joint efforts between communities, government bodies, and the corporate world. ‘This scheme has not only provided facilities but also empowered individuals to manage and maintain essential services,” he explained, citing it as a prime illustration of private sector engagement generating shared value and enduring effects.
Hatim Khan, Senior Director of International Programs at the PepsiCo Foundation, affirmed the foundation”s global dedication to improving safe water access in water-stressed areas. ‘We view access to safe water as a basic human right and globally support endeavors that help conserve, distribute, and purify water for community health,” he noted, emphasizing the partnership”s focus on locally-led, sustainable solutions.
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A panel discussion, “Learning Together for Sustainable WASH,” moderated by broadcaster Tauseeq Haider, explored lessons on sustainability, inclusive design, and scaling-up strategies. Participants included representatives from PepsiCo Pakistan, IDEA, DevCon, Taraqee Foundation, and Mojaz Foundation.
The occasion ended with a renewed pledge to expedite progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation for All.