The World Bank has approved an additional USD 108 million to support efforts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northwest Pakistan, aimed at improving the lives of women and girls by increasing their access to vital services and economic opportunities.
The Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Development (KITE) project and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rural Accessibility Project (KPRAP) are valued at approximately USD 30 million and USD 78 million, respectively. According to a World Bank release, the funding aims to support both projects in improving access to markets, employment, and essential services like healthcare and education, while enhancing the province’s resilience to natural disasters.
USD 108 Million Sanctioned
Specifically, the USD 78 million additional funding for KPRAP will focus on developing safe and climate-resilient road infrastructure by upgrading and rehabilitating rural roads. This will improve connectivity to schools, health centres, and local markets.
“The project is crucial for improving the lives of people in the province, particularly women and girls, by enhancing their access to essential services and economic opportunities,” said Muhammad Bilal Paracha, Task Team Leader for the project.
The additional USD 30 million financing for the KITE project will support the development of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s tourism sector. The funds will be used to complete the rehabilitation of two key roads, which will improve access to the region’s scenic tourist destinations.
