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Two events in September, co-hosted by Community World Service Asia (CWSA), held in Karachi and Hyderabad, brought together educators, civil society organisations (CSOs), development professionals, and public and private sector representatives to address climate-related challenges and strengthen institutional capacity in Sindh.

Empowering Educators to Lead Climate Action in Karachi

On September 30, 2025, CWSA partnered with the Teachers’ Resource Centre (TRC) to host a one-day event titled “Empowering Educators to Lead Climate Action for a Sustainable Future” at the TRC campus in Karachi. The gathering brought together a diverse audience of teachers, coordinators, education officers from public and private schools, and representatives from the corporate, finance sector and other organisations.

The event opened with a keynote address by Ambreena Ahmed, Director of TRC, who emphasised the critical role educators play in advancing climate action aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 13.

A lively panel discussion followed, featuring climate activist Afia Salam, development expert Naveed Ahmed Shaikh, gender justice and localisation advocate Plawashay Arbab, environmental entrepreneur Ahmed Shabbar, incubation head Raza Abbas, and youth leader Rizwan Jaffar. Together, they explored climate education, Karachi’s environmental challenges, and innovative solutions for climate-responsive learning.

The panel discussion focused on how climate awareness must evolve as a ground-up movement, beginning from schools. Speakers stressed the importance of empowering school administrators with the authority to implement tangible measures, reflecting the kind of responsibility often reserved for government bodies. The discussion emphasized the need to educate and engage the most receptive segment of society, the youth, the generation soon to take the lead and bear the brunt of it.

Climate Activist Afia Salam shared, “Climate change should not merely pertain to ecological areas, or be limited to geography or environmental lessons, but should be prioritised across every facet of schooling, as all are equally affected, be it physical activity, design thinking, or critical analysis. A country like Pakistan has faced massive flooding catastrophes in its history, the most devastating being in 2022, when more than half of Pakistan was submerged. Now you tell me, how many children know swimming as a basic life skill?”
Afia left the audience with a reflective question, it is not a one-time lecture to be discussed casually during free periods; rather, it is a responsibility that every teacher owes to their students, to convey the weight and urgency of the issue.

Ahmad Shabbar, leading a waste recycling organisation, shed light on how small individual efforts can collectively lead to significant change. He shared a short story about receiving thousands of books and papers meant to be recycled. Instead of discarding them, his team distributed them among underserved children who had little access to water, let alone books. He also recounted how, after floods destroyed several schools, they built small libraries out of recycled bottles, wrappers, and plastics, structures just as strong as concrete ones.

He attributed much of the environmental gap and disparity to a growing disconnect, a disconnect from nature, from the environment, and from one’s surroundings.

Raza Abbas, the Incubation head at the renowned Institute of Business Management, reiterated an emerging phenomenon: climate-tech startups. He reflected on the broader state of Pakistan and its people. How, over time, systemic inefficiencies have alienated many from observing civic discipline, whether in traffic regulations or adherence to policies. Years of frustration with governance and societal systems, he noted, have led to disengagement and apathy toward issues like climate change.

“But the thing is,” he emphasised, “both go hand in hand, and we must focus on leaving the world better than it was before.” He further highlighted the significance of teacher participation, noting that youth remain the most affected population when it comes to climate change and should be the ones most prepared.

Strengthening Strategic Planning for Climate CSOs in Hyderabad

In Hyderabad, CWSA joined hands with the Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction (GNDR) to co-host a one-day learning event titled “Funding & Developing Strategy for Climate CSOs in Sindh” at the CSOs Club. The event convened CSO leaders, parliamentarians, academics, and representatives from the public, private, and corporate sectors to discuss strategic planning, resource mobilisation, and institutional sustainability.

Advocate Saima Agha, MPA and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Sindh, addressed the closing session, highlighting the shrinking civic space and the need for policy and legal support to enable CSOs to fulfill their development roles effectively.

The event featured thematic presentations by experts including Khadim Dahot (SEWA Trust), Danish Batool (CWSA), and Kashif Siddiqui (CARD), who shared insights on funding landscapes, locally led initiatives, and strategic planning. A panel discussion moderated by Amarta included voices from BASIC Development Foundation and the Social Welfare Department of Sindh.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) was also a key focus, with contributions from Abid Ali Gaho (OGDCL), Asim Ahmed (Askari Bank), and Ghulam Abbas Khoso (GEF CSOs Network), who discussed the private sector’s role in supporting social development through CSOs.

Tahira Joyo, who moderated the event, summarised key reflections and emphasized the importance of strategic planning in adapting to climate challenges and evolving development needs.

Several participants shared their reflections on inclusion, participation, and accountability within climate strategies. One attendee noted: “Our climate strategies will remain incomplete until we actively bring women to the planning table. At the local level, women are not just victims of climate change, they are custodians of knowledge on water, food, and energy. A truly resilient Sindh requires funding and programs that are designed with women, not just for them. When our plans are gender-inclusive, our communities become climate-proof.”

Another attendee representing a local climate advocacy group added a perspective of youth: “While we demand larger systemic change, we cannot overlook the power of our individual actions. Every plastic bottle we refuse, every tap we close, and every native plant we grow is a vote for the future we want to see. Responsibility doesn’t start with governments or corporations alone, it starts in our homes, our universities, and our local communities. We, the youth, are not just leaders of tomorrow; we are the accountable citizens of today.”

A Shared Commitment to Climate Resilience

Through these two events, Community World Service Asia reaffirmed its commitment to fostering inclusive dialogue, capacity enhancement, and collaborative action for climate resilience. By empowering educators and strengthening CSOs, we are helping shape a more sustainable and responsive future for communities across Sindh.

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After witnessing decades of traditional cold winters and pleasant mild summers, erratic weather patterns have become a recurring reality. Homes that once needed no fans or air conditioners are now unbearably hot in the summer. Winters bring less snow, summers are warmer, signaling the broader climate crisis threatening the region’s fragile ecosystem and agricultural viability.

Gulkin, nestled in the heart of Upper Hunza, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, most notably the iconic Passu Cones of the Karakoram range. It stands near Gulmit, the cultural hub of Gojal Valley, known for its history and awe inspiring landscapes. Yet, like many mountain communities, the region has grown increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

Saeed Arab Shah, a 61-year-old prominent Community member, farmer, and a businessman has lived a lifetime in the village Gulkin in Gojal, Hunza.Saeed Arab Shah, a 61-year-old prominent Community member, farmer, and a businessman has lived a lifetime in the village Gulkin in Gojal, Hunza.

In response to the challenges faced by northern communities, Community World Service Asia (CWSA), in partnership with the Forest Department Hunza, recently organized a collaborative plantation drive in Gulkin and Gulmit. The initiative brought together 35 participants, including students, local leaders, government officials, and community members. For Arab Shah, the enthusiastic involvement of youth reflected a growing generational commitment to environmental protection and civic responsibility.

A passionate advocate for community capacity building, Arab Shah has long emphasized the importance of grassroots efforts. He believes tree plantation carries drastic long-term benefits such as reduced soil erosion, water conservation, and strengthening of the region’s natural ecosystem. However, he also expresses concern over the unregulated cutting of trees for domestic and commercial use, which makes the land more susceptible and prone to landslides, floods, and other climate-induced hazards. He asserts that afforestation can rejuvenate soil, improve air quality, conserve water resources, and help restore the region’s natural ecosystem.

A strong advocate for inclusive development, Arab Shah underscores the crucial role of women in fostering sustainable and resilient communities. He believes that empowering women and integrating their leadership into local decision-making processes is, in his view, essential for lasting change. People of Northern Pakistan have long valued women’s contributions in environmental, educational, and economic spheres, and Arab Shah believes this legacy must be strengthened further as it not only enhances community outcomes but also ensures more balanced and inclusive development.

Reflecting on the plantation drive, Saeed Arab Shah highlighted the high level of community engagement as the most inspiring aspect of the initiative. The participation of youth and families from diverse backgrounds created a strong sense of unity, purpose, and collective responsibility. This shared effort not only deepened participants’ connection to their land but also sparked a renewed determination to protect and preserve their natural environment.

Looking ahead, Arab Shah envisions a future where community-led initiatives, such as tree plantation, awareness sessions, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices become routine. He particularly advocates for initiatives that actively engage schools, youth, and women’s groups, reinforcing the benefit that could be gained after utilizing maximum community engagement due to the participation of women fostering a culture of environmental consciousness and civic responsibility from the ground up.

The recent plantation drive concluded on a pleasant and optimistic note. Participants, especially the young, expressed a profound sense of fulfillment, purpose, and redirection to continue working together for a greener and more resilient Hunza. For Arab Shah and his fellow community members, this initiative marked a meaningful step toward combating the local impacts of climate change and restoring the natural beauty and ecological balance of the Gojal Valley.

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Ghizer: CWSA distributes 90,000 rupees cash assistance and food rations to 264 flood-affected households in 15 villages

(Press Release) Community World Service Asia (CWSA) distributed financial assistance and food rations to 264 affected households in 15 flood-hit villages of District Ghizer (Dayeen, Asumber, Chatorkhand, Kochuda, Bargoal, Kanche, Tali Das, Haks, Haks Thangi, Khalti, Rawshan, Gupis, Sultanabad, Taus, and Karkalti).

Each affected family received a total of 90,000 rupees in cash through three relief cheques, along with a one-month ration pack consisting of 100 kg flour, 8 kg pulses, 7 liters cooking oil, 4 kg sugar, and 1 kg salt.

Additionally, Dignity Kits were distributed to 100 women to help them meet their basic daily needs.

The local residents and affected families expressed deep appreciation and gratitude to CWSA and the ACT Alliance, saying that this assistance proved to be a great support for them during difficult times.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/176N7Qqsxn/?mibextid=xfxF2i: CWSA Extends Lifeline Support to 264 Flood-Hit Families in Ghizer with Cash Assistance and Food Rations https://www.facebook.com/share/1GAJAjqkD8/?mibextid=xfxF2i: CWSA Extends Lifeline Support to 264 Flood-Hit Families in Ghizer with Cash Assistance and Food Rations https://www.facebook.com/share/1PWa7Xn3Rn/: CWSA Extends Lifeline Support to 264 Flood-Hit Families in Ghizer with Cash Assistance and Food Rations

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Join us for a transformative 2-day regional training designed to strengthen age and disability inclusion in humanitarian response. Based on the Humanitarian Inclusion Standards (HIS) and aligned with the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS) and Sphere Handbook, this training equips participants with practical tools to ensure no one is left behind.

When: December 6–7, 2025
Where: Bangkok, Thailand
Organised by: HelpAge International & Community World Service Asia (CWSA)
Fee: USD 250 (National/Local Organisations), USD 300 (International Agencies)

Why This Training Matters

In the face of overlapping crises, from climate shocks to conflict, older people and persons with disabilities are often overlooked. This training introduces a proven framework to embed inclusive practices across humanitarian programming.

What You’ll Gain

Participants will:

  • Understand the importance of age and disability inclusion in emergencies
  • Apply the nine HIS standards across program cycles
  • Use the Age & Disability Organisational Assessment Tool
  • Strengthen inclusive practices within their organisations

Who Should Attend

Ideal for Inclusion Advisors, Programme Managers, Technical Coordinators (Protection, Health, Livelihoods), and MEAL staff. Full attendance and commitment to sharing learning are required.

Additional Information

Note: Travel and visa arrangements are the responsibility of participants. Invitation letters for visa purposes will not be issued.

Optional participation in Regional Humanitarian Partnership Week (RHPW) from December 8–10, 2025. Separate registration required.

Download Brochure

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Community World Service Asia is hosting a QAS in Action: Putting Principles into Practice regional workshop, taking place from December 4–7, 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.

This 4-day learning event is designed for humanitarian professionals committed to advancing Quality, Accountability, and Safeguarding (QAS) in their work. Whether you’re a QAS focal point, programme manager, safeguarding lead, or local NGO leader, this workshop offers a dynamic space to strengthen your leadership, share good practices, and co-create practical tools for smarter, safer, and more accountable aid.

Why join?

  • Deepen your understanding of QAS principles in real-world settings
  • Learn mentoring techniques to multiply good practice
  • Connect with a global network of QAS champions
  • Gain access to contextualised tools from the QAS in Action – A Smart Guide for Aid Actors

Limited seats available. Apply by October 15th, 2025 on a first-come, first-served basis.
or questions, contact: qa.support@communityworldservice.asia

QAS Brochure Single PageDownload

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Pakistan is facing one of the most catastrophic monsoon flood emergencies in recent history. Torrential rains, compounded by cross-border water releases from India, have triggered widespread riverine overflows across Punjab, while northern regions remain highly vulnerable to flash floods and landslides. As of mid-September, over 3 million people had been evacuated, with 150,000 still sheltering in evacuation centres. Though waters in Punjab have begun to recede, the scale of devastation is staggering.

More than 2.6 million displaced people have returned to homes that are damaged or destroyed. The Punjab Disaster Management Authority reports the loss of 2.5 million acres of farmland; severely impacting wheat and cotton harvests and threatening long-term food security. Urban flooding in Karachi has compounded risks, while stagnant water in rural Punjab and Sindh is fueling outbreaks of water- and vector-borne diseases.

Forecasts warn of continued heavy rainfall and rising river levels in the Sutlej, Ravi, and Chenab. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has flagged heightened risks downstream, particularly in low-lying areas of Sindh. As floodwaters shift southward, the humanitarian situation remains dynamic and demands sustained, coordinated response.

National Humanitarian Needs

  • Shelter & NFIs: Over 2.6 million returnees in Punjab require emergency tents, repair kits, and winterization materials.
  • WASH: Safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, hygiene kits, and disease prevention measures are urgently needed.
  • Health: Mobile health services, essential medicines, and disease surveillance are critical to address rising cases of diarrhea, malaria, and dengue.
  • Food Security & Livelihoods: Crop and livestock losses threaten food access and recovery, particularly in Punjab.
  • Protection: Displaced women and children face heightened risks of exploitation and gender-based violence. Prolonged school closures are worsening child protection concerns.

The Asian Disaster Reduction and Response Network (ADRRN) has highlighted the urgent need to strengthen inclusive early warning and early action systems, backed by transformative investment in disaster risk reduction (DRR) to break Pakistan’s recurring cycle of flood-related loss and damage. Priority areas include:

  • Community-based DRR; training local residents in search and rescue
  • Forming Emergency response teams
  • Building local capacity for immediate medical and psychosocial support
  • Advancing locally-led climate adaptation requires complementing community knowledge with scientific and technical support to effectively address evolving risks.

Sindh Overview

Sindh province continues to be severely impacted, with intense urban flooding reported in Karachi, Hyderabad, and Mirpurkhas. The overflow of the Indus River has displaced approximately 191,500 people across 643 villages in 12 districts. Vulnerable communities residing in katcha1 areas have suffered extensive livelihood losses and significant damage to agricultural assets. Although conditions in Umerkot have now stabilized, the district endured widespread flooding throughout August and September.

Humanitarian Needs in Sindh
HealthMobile health teams and essential medicines
WASHSafe water, latrines, hygiene kits
Shelter/NFIsTents, tarpaulins, mosquito nets
Food SecurityDry rations and cooked meals
Livelihoods:Support to restore income-generating activities
Protection/MHPSSPsychosocial support and community outreach

Gilgit-Baltistan Overview

In September, Gilgit-Baltistan was struck by Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and flash floods, resulting in 41 deaths, 52 injuries, and the destruction of 1,253 homes. Infrastructure damage includes 87 bridges and 20 km of roads, with valleys such as Diamer and Ghizer cut off from relief access. Damages are estimated at PKR 20 billion.

Humanitarian Needs in Gilgit-Baltistan
Shelter, clean water, food, and medical care
Winterisation support for displaced families
Strengthened health services to address disease outbreaks
Livelihood recovery and protection for vulnerable groups

Community World Service Asia’s Response

Anticipatory Action in Sindh: With upstream river discharges threatening a “super flood” in Sindh, Community World Service Asia (CWSA) has activated anticipatory measures across flood-prone districts:

  • Pre-positioned supplies: Lifesaving medicines, medical equipment, and hygiene kits stocked at Umerkot warehouse.
  • Mobile health units: Strategically placed for rapid deployment.
  • Risk communication: Disseminating early warnings, safe water guidance, evacuation protocols, and disease prevention messages in local languages.
  • Coordination: Working closely with PDMA Sindh, health agencies, and cluster partners to ensure targeted, inclusive response and avoid duplication.

Additional support will be needed for winterisation, sanitation, shelter, logistics, and multipurpose cash assistance.

In Gilgit-Baltistan: In response to glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and monsoon-induced landslides, Community World Service Asia (CWSA) has initiated emergency relief operations in Hunza and neighboring districts. Emergency Relief Kits have been distributed in Hunza, with preparations underway for the delivery of food supplies, non-food items (NFIs), and winterisation kits.

In Ghizer district, CWSA has established a dedicated field office, secured the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC), recruited and oriented staff, and arranged two vehicles to facilitate field activities. Coordination meetings have been held with key stakeholders, including GBDMA, WWF-Pakistan, the Social Welfare Department, AKRSP, and the Deputy and Assistant Commissioners of Ghizer. Engagements with community organisations in flood-affected areas have also been completed.

Assessments for 240 project participants have been finalised, and data entry is currently in progress. Procurement processes have commenced following the submission of Purchase Request Forms (PRFs) and quotations for food packages. Distributions of food and multipurpose cash assistance are scheduled for October 2025.

Projected Gaps:

  • Many households remain unreached due to access and resource constraints.
  • Additional winterisation, sanitation, and shelter supplies are needed.
  • Multipurpose cash support is critical where markets remain functional.
  • Enhanced coordination with local authorities is required to facilitate last-mile delivery.

Coordination & Accountability

Community World Service Asia (CWSA) continues to work in close coordination with NDMA, PDMAs, UN agencies, humanitarian clusters, and ACT members in the country to harmonise response efforts and avoid duplication. As Co-Chair of the AAP (Accountability to Affected People) Working Group in Pakistan, CWSA places communities at the centre of the response by ensuring fair access to aid, clear and timely information in local languages, and inclusive decision-making processes and update the coordination networks accordingly. Safe, confidential feedback and complaints channels, through hotlines, community focal points, and helpdesks, are available across Sindh, Punjab, and Gilgit-Baltistan, enabling people to voice concerns and shape the response. Special efforts are made to reach women, children, persons with disabilities, and minority groups, while disaggregated data helps track who is reached and address risks of exclusion. Communities are also informed about the type, quantity, and timing of assistance, strengthening transparency and trust. These accountability measures are not add-ons but an integral part of CWSA’s principled humanitarian action, ensuring that relief is both effective and dignified.

Urgent Funding Priorities:

  • Expand anticipatory action in Sindh with rapid deployment capacity and community communication.
  • Scale up winterisation, shelter, and cash support in Gilgit-Baltistan based on community-identified needs.
  • Strengthen logistics and last-mile transport to reach high-risk, remote communities.

Community World Service Asia remains committed to delivering principled, inclusive, and locally led humanitarian assistance. As the situation evolves, we call on partners, donors, and humanitarian actors to join us in scaling up coordinated response efforts and investing in long-term resilience across Pakistan.

Contacts:

Shama Mall
Deputy Regional Director
Programs & Organisational Development
Email: shama.mall@communityworldservice.asia
Tele: 92-21-34390541-4

Palwashay Arbab
Head of Communication
Email: palwashay.arbab@communityworldservice.asia
Tele: 92-21-34390541-4

References

  • UNOCHA Flash Update #10, 19 Sept 2025
  • PDMA Punjab Situation Reports
  • NDMA National Updates
  • ADRRN Regional Advisory, Sept 2025
  • PDMA Sindh Flood Update, Sept 2025
  • District Administration Umerkot Updates, Sept 2025
  • GB Government & NDMA Situation Updates, Sept 2025
  • Pakistan Red Crescent Reports, Sept 2025
  1. Informal settlements ↩︎

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A Learning Event Hosted by Community World Service Asia – Lahore, 9th September 2025

Community World Service Asia convened a timely and impactful learning event in Lahore on September 9th, 2025, bringing together key stakeholders to explore actionable strategies for Punjab’s climate resilience. Titled “Strategising Punjab’s Climate Roadmap: Policy, Practice & Partnership,” the event served as a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and forward-thinking solutions.

With climate-induced disasters escalating across Pakistan, the urgency to align policy with practice has never been greater. This learning event brought together representatives from government departments, humanitarian organisations, academia, and civil society to examine how integrated approaches can strengthen provincial climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction efforts.

Key Highlights:

  • Policy Alignment & Gaps: Participants reviewed existing climate policies and frameworks, identifying critical gaps in implementation and coordination across sectors.
  • Localising Climate Action: Emphasis was placed on community-led adaptation, with discussions on how local knowledge and inclusive planning can inform provincial strategies.
  • Strengthening Partnerships: The event fostered cross-sector collaboration, encouraging stronger linkages between humanitarian actors, government bodies, and technical experts.
  • Practical Tools & Innovations: Attendees explored practical tools for climate risk mapping, early warning systems, and safeguarding mechanisms tailored to Punjab’s diverse geography and vulnerabilities.

Voices from the Field: Participants shared insights from their respective contexts, highlighting the need for:

  • Gender-responsive climate programming
  • Youth engagement in climate advocacy
  • Strengthening institutional capacities for long-term resilience

Why This Matters:

This learning event marks a significant step toward building a cohesive and inclusive climate roadmap for Punjab. By bridging policy with practice and fostering meaningful partnerships, Community World Service Asia is helping shape a future where climate resilience is not just a goal, but a shared responsibility.

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Sikander, a farmer from Babu Syal in Umerkot, is regarded as a pillar of strength by his community; a place where the climate swings from relentless heat that scorches the earth to sudden, destructive monsoon floods. For the sharecropping families of this region, the land is more than just livelihood; it is legacy, sustenance, and survival. Protecting it is not a choice, but a necessity. Sikander understood this deeply, and when he recognised a recurring threat that others hesitated to confront, he chose action over silence.

Living with his mother, wife, children, and siblings, Sikander has long relied on farming to support his family. In 2011, torrential floods swept through Umerkot, leaving behind a trail of devastation. Homes were destroyed, fields submerged, and entire villages lost beneath rising waters. With no preparedness measures in place, communities were left vulnerable and exposed.

The floods of 2022 brought renewed crisis, this time on a national scale. Sikander’s village remained submerged for nearly three months, while surrounding farmlands stayed underwater even longer. The repeated trauma of these disasters galvanised the community. No longer willing to remain unprepared, they committed to building resilience and safeguarding their future.

Through the support of Community World Service Asia’s disaster resilience initiatives, Sikander and his fellow villagers are now charting a new path; one rooted in preparedness, collective strength, and hope. In 2023, Community World Service Asia (CWSA) identified flood-prone regions of Umerkot and introduced disaster preparedness and climate change adaptation trainings. Sikander was among the participants and later joined the Disaster Risk Reduction Committee set up under CWSA’s initiatives supported by CWS Japan and Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Japan.

By the time the monsoon rains returned in 2024, Sikander, equipped with disaster preparedness training, emerged as a unifying force, rallying not only his own village but neighboring communities as well. For twenty consecutive days, they stood as the frontline against impending disaster, working tirelessly to safeguard their lands and livelihoods.

Under Sikander’s leadership, villagers mobilised every available resource; tractors, fuel, manpower, and even dipped into their own savings to sustain the effort. Men laboured without pause, clearing blocked canals and reinforcing embankments to redirect floodwaters. It was a remarkable display of collective resilience, where women played a vital role by preparing and delivering hot, home-cooked meals and fresh rotis to those working in the field from dawn to dusk.

True to the wisdom that prevention is better than cure, the community acted swiftly on early flood alerts, implementing proactive measures before the crisis could escalate. Their efforts paid off: thousands of acres of farmland and hundreds of homes were protected from destruction. Through the construction of barrier walls, strategic placement of sandbags, and careful management of drainage systems, they successfully averted catastrophic flooding.

Sikander also coordinated with the Livestock Department to ensure timely vaccinations, safeguarding animals from seasonal disease and further loss. His leadership reflects the power of community-led action, where preparedness, solidarity, and timely intervention can transform vulnerability into resilience.

When asked why they worked collectively instead of individually, the answer was simple, “Who could have achieved this alone? Why wouldn’t a person go to every length to save his home, his land, his life’s work? Every village was at risk. Every man had to take charge.” Sikander had long believed that the community’s unity would be their greatest defense against calamity. Even when others were hesitant at first, he persistently urged them to prepare for what lay ahead.

Sikander’s unwavering determination earned him the gratitude of his people. He recalls, “They spoke my name in their prayers and showered me with good wishes.”

Today, after participating in these training sessions, Sikander trusts his instincts and uses his courage to turn resilience into action. “We will not only use these techniques to reduce flood risks ourselves,” he says, “but also pass them down to our children. We cannot change the entire village system overnight, but step by step we are moving toward resilience.”

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In the sun-scorched plains of Tharparkar lies village Jumo Dadh, home to families that rely heavily on farming and livestock to earn a living. Most residents here work as sharecroppers, cultivating land owned by others in exchange for a portion of the harvest. This arrangement leaves them with limited means and little control over their financial wellbeing.

When the sky doesn’t rain for months, they miss out on whatever little promise of livelihood they could have had. Without water, the land stays dry and unproductive, and the hard work of preparing the fields brings no return. A lost season is a lost chance. Once it slips, so does the hope it carries.

In June 2025, hope took root in Jumo Dadh village as 26 households came together to receive their first-ever package of crop seeds. This milestone, led by Community World Service Asia in partnership with Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe (DKH), marked a vital step toward supporting climate-affected desert communities.

This initiative is designed to enhance local agricultural practices, strengthen food security, and support the development of resilient livelihoods. Central to its approach is the empowerment of communities to lead and sustain their own progress through improved response capacities.

During the initial assessment phase, community members were actively involved in identifying their most pressing needs. A range of participatory methods, including focus group discussions, village meetings, and inclusive tools, ensured that voices from across the community were heard, especially those of women, elders, youth, and marginalised groups.

Existing community bodies such as Village Management Committees (VMCs) and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) committees play a pivotal role in implementing the project. These structures provide local leadership and help ensure that interventions are contextually appropriate and community-driven.

To promote accountability and continuous improvement, the project has established regular feedback channels. Community review meetings and complaint-response systems enable residents to raise concerns, share suggestions, and will actively shape the project throughout its lifecycle.

For generations, these families have relied solely on rainfall and livestock to sustain their livelihoods, often struggling to cultivate crops due to erratic weather and limited farming inputs. Each season brought uncertainty and hardship. The seeds package they received under the project, offers a chance to grow food and rebuild resilience. Each package includes 18 kg of cluster beans, 16 kg of millet, 8 kg of moth beans, and 1 kg of sesame.

Families were selected using a clear criteria; including household size, number of dependents, women-led homes, income levels, and existing livestock assets. As part of the distribution process, farmers were shown the contents of their seed packages to ensure transparency and trust in the organisation’s commitment. They also received practical training on how to sow and care for the crops effectively. The training inculcated the community with the necessary technique and knowledge to optimise farming. By providing training and capacity-building opportunities, the initiative will strengthen local ownership. Community members will gain practical skills and knowledge, empowering them to sustain the benefits of the project long after its formal conclusion.

The distribution of millet and cluster bean seeds offered more than just agricultural inputs, they sparked a renewed sense of hope. For many families, it marks the first time they received seeds to cultivate on their own land. With support and practical guidance, they began preparing their fields, motivated by the prospect of feeding their families and generating a meaningful income.

Before the project began, the village community faced significant challenges. There were limited opportunities for collective dialogue, and residents had not previously engaged in vegetable cultivation, received food-related financial support, or participated in trainings on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) or climate-smart agriculture. Livestock such as goats, valuable for nutrition and income, were also absent from local households.

Following the intervention, the village has seen a remarkable transformation. Community structures such as Village Management Committees and DRR Committees have been established, creating platforms for shared decision-making and local leadership. Every household now maintains a kitchen garden, providing fresh, nutritious vegetables daily. Many families have also begun keeping goats, improving access to milk and enhancing food security.

Residents have actively participated in trainings focused on DRR and climate-smart agriculture, equipping them with practical skills to adapt to environmental challenges. A dedicated Disaster Risk Management Center (DRMC) has also been set up, serving as a hub for preparedness and coordination.

The village was selected based on a comprehensive vulnerability assessment, which considered factors such as poverty levels, food insecurity, limited access to essential services, and heightened exposure to climate-related risks. These indicators highlighted the urgent need for targeted support and sustainable solutions. The people of Jumo Dadh feel happy and take pride in being hard workers who commit selflessly and limitlessly to their labour and land. A good yield at the end of the day is the only reward they seek. A simple hope of seeing their children go to bed with full stomachs is the catalyst behind their staunch commitment. Despite assistance in other areas, this was the first of its kind for which the community expressed nothing but deep gratitude. 

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