Poverty Graduation Strategy for Economic Transformation Initiative for Gilgit-Baltistan

Synopsis:

The project aims to improve the livelihoods and well-being of smallholder farmers in the Gilgit-Baltistan region through a value chain development approach. It seeks to increase agriculture incomes and employment for 100,000 rural households in 7 districts, with a focus on leaving no one behind. The Gender and Poverty (G&P) Section of the project contracted Mera Maan to develop a comprehensive model and strategy to ensure the inclusion of poor and vulnerable households. The strategy aims to empower these households, amplify their voices, and equip them with the necessary skills to actively participate as “agents of change” in their journey to graduate out of poverty.

Narrative of the Project Description:

Background:

The Economic Transformation Initiative (ETI), in partnership with IFAD and the Agribusiness Support Fund, focuses on uplifting smallholder farmers and reducing poverty and malnutrition in the rural areas of Gilgit-Baltistan. The project adopts a value chain development approach to drive sustainable agriculture and improve incomes for rural households. In this context, the Gender and Poverty (G&P) Section identified the need for a comprehensive model and strategy to ensure that poor and vulnerable households are not left behind in the poverty alleviation efforts.

Objectives:

– Develop a comprehensive poverty graduation model for the Economic Transformation Initiative in Gilgit-Baltistan.
– Ensure the inclusion and active participation of poor and vulnerable households in the poverty graduation process.
– Amplify the voices of marginalized communities and empower them to become agents of change in their own poverty alleviation journey.

Project Impact:

The Poverty Graduation Strategy developed by Mera Maan has contributed to a more inclusive and effective poverty alleviation approach in Gilgit-Baltistan. By empowering poor and vulnerable households and enabling their active participation, the strategy has already uplifted 100,000+ rural households, providing them with sustainable livelihood opportunities and improving their overall well-being. The strategy’s implementation is expected to continue making a significant impact on reducing poverty and promoting economic transformation in the region.