The Government of Balochistan reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s development and economic inclusion during a high-level seminar series held in Quetta under the EU funded GRASP project which is being implemented International Trade Centre in partnership with Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF). The two-day event was jointly organised by PPAF, Government of Balochistan and Paigham-e-Pakistan. The seminars brought together federal and provincial leaders who together shared their learnings and discussed pathways to move forward with an integrated approach. Event also saw participation from civil society, and women entrepreneurs to explore pathways for inclusive growth across agriculture, livestock, and enterprise sectors.
Representing women in Balochistan and government’s mandate Dr. Rubaba Khan Baledi, Advisor to the Chief Minister on Women Development emphasised the importance of institutionalising support for women across all levels of planning and implementation. “This is about system-building, not short-term projects. Whether it’s livestock value chains or digital inclusion, women must be central to all development planning. Without embedding gender equity in governance and economic planning, sustainable development will remain out of reach” she stated.
Speaking to the ceremony, Ms. Ghazala Gola, Deputy Speaker Provincial Assembly, Balochistan echoed the need for strategic action, calling for gender-responsive policies and dedicated budgets. “We need laws and budgets that are not symbolic but strategic, policies and actions grounded in data, evidence, and political will to uplift women, especially in rural sectors. Only then can we close the gap between intent and impact” she noted.
Ms. Saira Atta, Secretary Women Development Department also graced the event and reaffirmed the department’s mission to institutionalise gender representation across all government departments.“We will ensure women’s representation at every level and foster stronger inter-departmental collaboration to deliver meaningful change. his is not just a gender issue it’s a governance imperative” she stated.
The Ministry of Women Development and women political representatives from Balochistan strongly resonated with PPAF’s mission of fostering inclusive economic growth and advancing women’s empowerment. Their active participation underscored the Government of Balochistan’s collective will to strengthen gender-responsive governance and create an enabling environment for women-led growth in agriculture, livestock, and enterprise sectors. The event also featured exhibitions of women-led SMEs supported by GRASP, showcasing innovation and resilience from across the province.
By convening diverse actors and reinforcing leadership at the highest levels, the seminar series marked a significant step forward in shaping inclusive and sustainable development pathways with women leading the way.
