The Federally Administered Tribal Area (FATA) in the north-western area of Pakistan continues to experience protracted problems since clashes between militants and security forces created waves of migration and return movements to and from the region.
As there is no consolidated funds appeal mechanism in Pakistan, the Pakistan Humanitarian Pooled Fund (PHPF) is crucial for bridging humanitarian funding gaps. Work in FATA highlights commitments made under the ‘New Way of Working’ – an initiative launched by the international community that pledges to bridge the humanitarian/development divide.
Miro Khel - towards self sufficiency
Miro Khel in Upper Orakzai is a hamlet of Badan in FATA with a population of 220 people (33 households). Livelihoods and lives have been affected by a host of problems. PAWT (Poverty Alliance Welfare Trust) works alongside the villagers with support from PHPF to install and rehabilitate hand pumps and other WASH facilities in the communities, schools and health centers.
In July 2016, PAWT conducted a community needs assessment to determine the critical needs of various segments of the community. They formed a community based organization and found that although there were several pressing demands, drinking water nearby was most requested.
“The road is dangerous and the spring is far away” said Nasib Khan, one of the villagers. “During rains, the water becomes muddy and almost undrinkable. People are poor and everyone cannot arrange water tank because it is expensive.” PAWT learnt that this isn’t the only village in Orakzai agency that battles with water problems. Therefore, the organization targeted 12 villages in Orakzai agency and installed 18 new hand pumps and 30 latrines, and repaired 10 hand pumps in schools and health centers.
“PAWT has played a significant role in solving WASH related problems faced by the community of Orakzai” acknowledged the secretary of the community organization Kandi Mishti (an area in Orakzai), Rahim Badshah.