World Bank Grants $108M to Boost Women’s Access to Services, Jobs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
$108 million in World Bank funding will improve roads, services, and tourism access for women and girls in KP, focusing on jobs, education, and climate resilience.
PESHAWAR: In a major boost for development and gender inclusion, the World Bank has approved an additional USD 108 million in funding for two key projects in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, aimed at improving access to essential services, economic opportunities, and resilient infrastructure — especially for women and girls.
The funding supports the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rural Accessibility Project (KPRAP) and the Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Development (KITE) project. KPRAP has received USD 78 million, while KITE is granted USD 30 million in additional financing.
According to the World Bank’s statement, the financing will help both projects advance their missions of improving market access, job creation, and health and education services — with a strong focus on climate resilience and social inclusion.
“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 funding for KPRAP will go toward upgrading and rehabilitating rural roads, making them safer and more climate-resilient. This will directly benefit remote communities by improving access to schools, health facilities, and marketplaces, creating real impact at the grassroots level.
Meanwhile, the KITE project’s financing will accelerate the development of tourism infrastructure, particularly by completing the rehabilitation of two vital roads leading to scenic destinations. This is expected to boost tourism revenue, create new jobs, and help the province tap into its natural beauty in a sustainable and inclusive way.
“This additional financing underscores the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s development goals,” Paracha added.
By strengthening rural access and developing tourism corridors, the initiative aligns with broader goals of economic upliftment, disaster resilience, and gender equity in KP — a region with both potential and challenges.
With this funding, thousands of women and girls stand to benefit from safer mobility, better health and education services, and increased economic participation — a step forward in closing the gender gap and unlocking inclusive growth in one of Pakistan’s most promising provinces.
