WaterAid Pakistan Concludes Urban Water Initiative with Focus on Sustainable WASH Solutions

The program directly benefited tens of

thousands through the installation of

water filtration systems, hygiene education

Staff Reporter

Karachi: WaterAid Pakistan celebrated the successful completion of its three-year Urban Water Initiative with a high-level learning and closing event in Karachi. Launched in 2022 with support from the PepsiCo Foundation, the initiative improved access to clean drinking water and hygiene services in underserved communities, schools, and healthcare facilities across Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta.

The program directly benefited tens of thousands through the installation of water filtration systems, hygiene education, and the creation of local Water User Committees to ensure long-term sustainability of services.

Government and NGO Leaders Call for Continued Action

Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah emphasized that Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) is a basic human right. “WASH is fundamental to human dignity, education, and health. Every child deserves clean water and safe sanitation,” he stated, urging joint efforts by government, civil society, and citizens to build climate-resilient and inclusive systems.

Collaboration Across Sectors Yields Long-Term Impact

Mian Muhammad Junaid, Country Director of WaterAid Pakistan, highlighted that the initiative’s success stemmed from partnerships between communities, the government, and private sector. “This project has invested in people — their capacity to lead, manage, and sustain essential services. It’s a model for creating shared value and long-term impact,” he said.

Hatim Khan, Senior Director of International Programs at the PepsiCo Foundation, reinforced the Foundation’s global commitment to clean water access. “We believe access to safe water is a human right. This partnership enabled practical, locally rooted solutions that deliver lasting health benefits,” he noted.

Sector Experts Share Lessons on WASH Sustainability

The event featured a panel discussion on “Learning Together for Sustainable WASH,” moderated by broadcaster Tauseeq Haider. Panelists included:

• Haseeb Malik, Senior Director, Supply Chain, PepsiCo Pakistan
• Muhammad Ammad, Executive Director, IDEA
• Nisar Ahmed Nizamani, CEO, DevCon
• Dr. Amjad Rashid, CEO, Taraqee Foundation
• Saadia Iqbal, Program Lead, Mojaz Foundation

The discussion explored themes of sustainability, inclusive design, and strategies to scale up WASH initiatives.

Commitment to SDG 6 Reaffirmed

The event concluded with a strong reaffirmation of commitment to accelerating progress on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation for All.