WB okays $250m for poverty alleviation

Thursday, June 11, 2009

ISLAMABAD (APP) - In recognition of track record and performance of Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund, the World Bank’s Board of Directors has approved $250 million for poverty reduction project (PPAF-III) for next five years. Addressing a media briefing on Wednesday here, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) PPAF Kamal Hyat, highlighted the fact that the World bank funding is based on the consideration PPAF’s output, lowest administrative cost, effectiveness of outcomes

and impact on the poorest at the grassroots level.

He said that where as PPAF-I (1999-2004) focused on growth and PPAF-II (2005-09) went to national scale, the thrust of PPAF-III (2009-2013) will be on integration and depth in terms of scope and activities.
Kamal Hyat said it would capitalize on its achievements of last ten years with respect to empowering poor people with increased incomes, improved productive capacity, quality of life and better access to services to achieve sustainable livelihoods and reduce poverty.

He said that it will increase its focus on inclusion of poor people - including women, youth and ultra-poor households - in community organizations and strengthen their participation in all community decision-making processes.

“PPAF-III would focus on five key areas of social mobilization and institutional building, livelihood enhancement and protection, micro-credit access, basic services and infrastructure and project implementation support” he added.

He said that PPAF has consistently received AAA rating from the World Bank. Moreover, PPAF the model is being replicated internationally in various developing countries.

Kamal said in view of its national network and outreach, PPAF was assigned dedicated responsibility by government of Pakistan for housing, water, infrastructure, heath, education, training and disability management in eight districts of earthquake-affected areas of AJK and NWFP.

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