Islamabad: The Government of Japan, under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) Program, has decided to provide grant assistance of USD 85,429 (equivalent PKR 23.9 million) to two local NGOs for development projects in District Chakwal, Punjab, and District Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The grant contracts were signed between His Excellency, Mr. AKAMATSU Shuichi, Ambassador of Japan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and representatives of the two NGOs at the Embassy of Japan in Islamabad on February 3, 2026.
The two NGOs that will implement the projects are Bin Qutab Foundation and Saibaan Development Organization. Bin Qutab Foundation will receive USD 55,230 (equivalent PKR 15.5 million) for the construction of a Maternal and Child Healthcare Center at Begum Noor Memorial Hospital in the rural side of District Chakwal. The new center, installed with essential medical equipment, will provide 24-hour safe delivery services, emergency obstetric care, and neonatal services under one roof and providing subsidized service to needy.
The project is expected to benefit more than 10,000 patients annually and will also promote family planning awareness, contributing significantly to improved maternal and child health. Saibaan Development Organization will receive USD 30,199 (equivalent to PKR 8.4 million) for the improvement of a link road in Village Makrriha, District Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The project includes pavement of the road and construction of protection walls, which will enhance mobility and safety for local residents. The project is expected to benefit more than 2,400 direct beneficiaries, as well as thousands of indirect beneficiaries in nearby areas, by improving access to healthcare, education, and markets.
At the signing ceremony, His Excellency, Mr. AKAMATSU Shuichi emphasized that Japan has worked closely with Pakistan for decades to address basic human needs, including health, education, and infrastructure development. Ambassador Akamatsu highlighted that the GGP Program focuses on face-to-face assistance through partnerships with local NGOs to respond directly to community needs.
Ambassador Akamatsu further noted that basic services and infrastructure form the foundation of sustainable development and human security, reflecting Japan’s own development experience. As an enduring friend of Pakistan, the Government of Japan will continue to support for capable local NGOs through grant assistance, with the aim of improving the daily lives and wellbeing of people at the grassroots level throughout the country.
