PESHAWAR: The United States government, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), in collaboration with Government of Pakistan launched the Women’s Economic Empowerment Activity (WEEA) today (Thursday).
According to the statement issued by the US Embassy, the five-year initiative, supports the Government of Pakistan’s efforts to promote women’s social and economic empowerment through safe and dignified access to information and services.
The WEEA programme offers solutions for women, communities and governments to address structural and socio-economic barriers which prevent women from fully participating in their communities.
The programme also aims to reduce economic gaps and make progress towards gender equality, at both the community and institutional levels. In accordance with Pakistan’s national strategy, WEEA demonstrates the US’ commitment to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.
“USAID proudly partners with the Government of Pakistan to promote peaceful communities, increase economic growth, and strengthen global health security capacities,” said USAID Mission Director Julie Koenen.
She further said, “The Women’s Economic Empowerment Activity is yet another manifestation of our commitment to enabling women-led business that will play an important role in Pakistan’s economic growth.”
Meanwhile, Akbar Ayab Khan, KP Minister for Local Government, said, “Women’s empowerment has been one of my government’s top priorities and an essential part of our governance. Our vision is to elevate women’s labour force participation by 45 percent by 2025.”
According to the statement, a component of this project will facilitate the Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) registration of 1.25 million women in 49 districts across K-P, Sindh and Punjab provinces.
