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Mazhar Hussain Qureshi, a young man from a small village named Hassan Qureshi, in Sindh’s Khairpur district, had spent most of his life struggling to make ends meet as an unskilled labourer. He worked 10 to 12 days a month, barely able to support himself and his family with a meagre daily wage of PKR 400-500 (approximately USD 1.44-1.8). Much like the rest of his community, his village had little economic opportunity beyond agriculture, and most residents relied on sporadic labour work on nearby farms.

The devastating 2022 floods in Khairpur severely impacted the community’s livelihoods, shelter, and agricultural activities, including crops and livestock. Mazhar’s family, reliant on daily wage labour, was among those affected, losing their home and income sources. In 2023, Community World Service Asia (CWSA) launched a livelihood recovery project to support flood-affected individuals. Mazhar was selected for motorcycle repair training based on specific criteria. These included being between 18 and 40 years old, having at least primary-level education, belonging to a vulnerable group, coming from a large family (seven or more members), being a daily wage worker interested in learning new skills, or being part of the flood-affected community. This initiative aimed to equip participants with sustainable skills to help rebuild their lives and restore their independence.

In April 2024, Mazhar training commenced at the Skill Development Centre in Sobhodero. A total of 450 graduates were enrolled in three-month batches at the Kingri and Sobhodero Centres, established in September 2023. Each centre offered three trades—electrical, motorcycle mechanics, and mobile repair—with 25 trainees per trade, totalling 75 graduates per batch. Over nine months, three batches completed their training from October 2023 to June 2024, with 150 individuals trained in each trade. The purpose was to train unskilled labour and flood-affected communities, enabling them to enhance their livelihoods.

Mazhar joined the program in its third batch, driven by the high demand for motorcycle repairs in his area and his interest in learning a skill that could improve his family’s financial future. Although he knew the basics of motorcycle repair, Mazhar’s time at the centre introduced him to new techniques, covering theory and hands-on training over six days a week. Mazhar’s commitment to the training program[hI5] [S6]  was exceptional. He attended every session with discipline, encouraged by a daily transportation allowance of PKR 550 (approx. USD 2). Through his hard work, he earned the top position in his class, a proud achievement that marked his entry into the skilled labour population upon completion of the program and received a certificate from the Trade Testing Board Sindh, along with a specialised toolkit essential for his new trade. This acknowledgment of his abilities boosted his confidence and marked the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey.

CWSA and the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), the organisations behind the Skill Development Centre, saw Mazhar’s potential and extended further support to help him establish his business. He was awarded PKR 50,000 (approx. USD 180) in cash assistance, which enabled him to rent a small shop for PKR 5,000 (approx. USD 20) per month and buy necessary tools for his new venture. With this setup, he opened his motorcycle repair workshop, providing a valuable service for residents and creating a stable source of income for himself and his family.

“Before I joined the training program, I didn’t have the technical or business skills,” Mazhar reflects. “Now, I am confident, skilled, and capable of handling all technical aspects, managing my business, and understanding market and customer needs.” The training and support from CWSA transformed his ability to navigate the business world, from dealing with customers to managing finances. Mazhar now earns an impressive daily income of PKR 1,500-2,000 (approx. USD 5-7), far more than he could have made as an unskilled farm labourer.

Apart from Mazhar, 26 other graduates, nine from each trade were given a cash grant of PKR 50,000 (approx. USD 180). They were selected based on being top performers in their final exams, having sustainable business plans and feasible locations, and demonstrating a strong interest in establishing small businesses. Around 36% of the 450 graduates now work in the market either as skilled laborers or have set up small shops, earning daily incomes ranging from PKR 500 to PKR 1,200(approx. USD. 1.8 to 4.3).

As his business flourished, Mazhar didn’t keep his success to himself. He began training his brothers and other young people in his community interested in motorcycle repair to help them gain the same skills he had acquired. So far, he has trained three individuals who now assist him in the shop, and he takes pride in seeing them improve daily. “It feels good to pass on the skills I’ve learned,” he says, “and it’s rewarding to watch them get better in their work.”

Mazhar’s journey has had a positive impact on his entire community. His reputation for skill and reliability quickly spread, with residents trusting his work and frequently recommending his services. He is now a source of inspiration, showing others that with hard work, determination, and the right support, it’s possible to transition from struggling labor to skilled business ownership.

Looking ahead, Mazhar has ambitious plans to grow his business further. He envisions adding more services, such as selling spare parts and offering maintenance contracts for local businesses, to support long-term growth. He also hopes to hire more individuals from his village, allowing others to escape the cycle of poverty and contribute to the local economy. “My goal is not just to grow my business,” he explains, “but to create a space where others can learn, earn, and build better lives.”

Mazhar’s story highlights the impact of skill development initiatives on entire communities and the role of timely, yet sustainable support. Through his workshop, Mazhar is building a legacy of skill and self-sufficiency, proving that with access to training and resources, anyone can rise above their circumstances and thrive.

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Laali, 25, lives in the remote village of Sohbat Khan Laghari, UC Dolatpur, Tehsil Shujabad, District Mirpurkhas, where life presents daily challenges, especially for someone with a physical disability. Laali has lived with a syndactyly disability since childhood, where the fingers of one hand are fused. This condition significantly impacts her ability to perform daily household chores. She struggles with tasks requiring fine motor skills, such as cooking or using small tools, and finds it challenging to carry or lift items with one hand. Activities that require both hands, like buttoning clothes, tying knots, or lifting heavier objects, are particularly difficult for her, further compromising her ability to manage routine responsibilities.  For years, accessing healthcare was an uphill battle, with the nearest medical facilities located far away. Laali often had to endure long, costly journeys, covering expenses for travel, doctor visits, and medicines, or waiting weeks for even basic medical attention.  

Laali is married and a mother to two young sons, her eldest is four-years-old, and the younger is two and a half. Unfortunately, she cannot afford to send them to school due to financial constraints. Her husband, Ramesh, works as a daily labourer, earning a modest PKR 400-500 (approximately USD 1.5 to 2), while Laali manages their household chores. They care for four rented goats, owned by someone else, in exchange for free milk—a small but vital support for their family.  

The nearest healthcare facility is located approximately 20 kilometres from Laali’s village. She visited it once last year when her elder child fell ill with respiratory illness but found the experience deeply unsatisfactory. Despite being a government hospital, she had to purchase medicines worth around PKR 2,000 (approximately USD 7.3) rupees from outside the facility and spend an additional PKR 1,000 (approximately USD 3.7) on travel expenses. The hospital staff were unresponsive and inattentive, and the treatment provided was ineffective as her child did not recover. That visit was both her first and last to the government hospital.  

Laali has also sought help from a private health clinic, but the cost was significantly higher. The visit, which included transportation, doctor’s fees, medical tests, and medicines, amounted to PKR 3,500 rupees (approximately USD 13). To cover these expenses, Laali had to borrow money from her brother. She observed little to no improvement in her child’s health despite visiting both government and private clinics, leaving her deeply dissatisfied.

On August 15, 2024, Community World Service Asia (CWSA), with support from Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), brought two mobile health units in different villages of Mirpurkhas under a humanitarian and early recovery project, eventually coming to Laali’s village which was a milestone for the community. For the first time, residents had access to a team of dedicated healthcare professionals who set up a temporary clinic offering free check-ups, diagnostic services, and treatment advice. On the first day, a total of 206 people attended the mobile health unit. Among them, 146 patients (49 women, 9 men, and 106 children) received medicines.

When Laali visited the mobile clinic with her family, she was met with warmth and understanding. The staff listened attentively to her concerns, conducted thorough examinations of her children, and provided medication to relieve their cough and flu symptoms. 

As part of the CAFOD project, the mobile health unit continues to conduct daily free camps across flood-affected villages in District Mirpurkhas until 31 January 2025. Between September 2023 and October 2024, the unit provided free consultations to 62,279 individuals (31,875 women, 6,948 men, 11,291 boys, and 12,165 girls) across 412 villages. Additionally, 445 persons with disabilities (PWDs) have been facilitated, ensuring inclusive and accessible healthcare for all.  The Mobile Health Unit ensures priority care for PWDs and pregnant women. They are not required to wait in the general waiting area but are attended to immediately by the doctor. The unit is equipped with wheelchair access for PWD patients, and in cases where commuting proves challenging for them, the doctors personally visit their homes, bringing essential medicines along.

Laali and her family also participated in the Health Awareness Session conducted by a Lady Health Visitor (LHV) and a social mobiliser (woman). The session covered topics such as family planning, malaria, skin diseases, and cold and flu prevention. “The LHV explained the benefits of a small family, and I feel more confident now, understanding that a smaller family means fewer expenses and the ability to afford healthier food,” Laali shared.  

She also learned about the importance of health and hygiene, particularly handwashing before and after meals. Inspired by the session, she began implementing these practices, including washing hands after using the restroom. Laali noticed an improvement in her family’s health as a result of these changes.  

“Dr Misbah (Woman Medical Officer) diagnosed us, and LHV Stella guided us on how to use the prescribed medicines. The service was excellent, and my whole family was satisfied,” Laali said. She expressed her gratitude and requested that the mobile health unit return regularly to their village for follow-up medical camps. She also suggested including nutritional support for children, as her family currently manages only two meals a day, typically consisting of wheat and local vegetables.  

“This service was a blessing,” Laali said, her eyes lighting up with gratitude. “They treated me with kindness and provided care I never thought I could receive so close to home.”  The visit not only offered medical support but also restored Laali’s sense of hope. For the first time, she felt truly seen and supported. The team guided lifestyle changes and follow-up plans to improve her family’s health in the long term.  

Now, Laali actively spreads the word about the mobile health unit, encouraging others in her village to seek the help they need and benefit from the life-changing services.

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In the village of Sagiyon in District Khairpur Mirs, 38-year-old Malka has transformed her life and community. A mother of eight, Malka lives with her husband, Niaz Ali, and relies on farming on their two-acre agricultural land to provide for her family. While her husband earns a daily wage of PKR 400–500 (approximately USD 1.4-1.8) by running a small fruit stall in the village.

Until recently, she struggled with financial burdens, poor yields, and limited resources. But with the support of Community World Service Asia (CWSA) and the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD), Malka’s journey from a struggling farmer to a celebrated “Lead Farmer”[1] is a beacon of empowerment, resilience, and sustainable agriculture.

Before receiving training from CWSA, Malka knew little about the harmful impacts of chemical pesticides and fertilisers on health and the environment. She also found herself stuck in cycles of debt, often needing to borrow money to cover sowing season expenses. In November 2023, with her dedication to improving her family’s life, Malka enrolled in CWSA’s Climate-Smart Agriculture training. She was one of the 20 women farmers participating in this session.

As part of the project, 900 women farmers from flood-affected communities in 40 villages of District Khairpur received agricultural inputs and a cash grant of PKR 15,000 (approx. USD 54) each to support land preparation. Among these, 120 women farmers (two from each village) were selected as lead farmers based on their enthusiasm for learning and willingness to share their knowledge with other farmers in their communities.

Malka learned essential skills through the training like composting and biological pest control methods that would allow her to cultivate healthier crops while preserving the environment. CWSA provided her with agricultural inputs, including two bags of wheat seeds, four bags of Urea fertiliser, two bags of DAP fertiliser, and a bag of CAN fertiliser, each weighing 50 kg. Additionally, she received a cash grant of PKR 15,000 to support her agricultural activities. She learned important techniques in crop selection, soil preparation, and water conservation management. She also gained knowledge in sustainable agricultural practices, integrated pest and disease management, as well as harvest and post-harvest management.

Applying her newfound skills, Malka planted wheat on her two-acre farm and achieved an impressive yield of 80-90 mounds—a substantial increase from the previous year’s 30-40 mounds, which had suffered due to devastating 2022 floods. This was a much-needed financial boost; Malka sold 50% of her wheat yield, earning around PKR 100,000 (approximately USD 360). She paid off previous loans with this income and saved for the upcoming crop season. She stored a portion of the harvest for her family’s consumption and set aside seeds for future planting, creating a sustainable cycle for her family’s food security.

“Before, we struggled to feed our family. The wheat seeds and training from CWSA have changed everything. Now, I’m not just a farmer—I’m a lead farmer, showing others what is possible,” Malka shares with pride.

Apart from this, Malka diversified her farm by starting a kitchen garden with seven vegetable varieties provided by CWSA in September 2024, including cauliflower, turnips, and spinach. The kitchen garden brought a steady supply of fresh vegetables, enhancing her family’s nutrition and reducing her daily vegetable expenses of PKR 250-300 (approx. 0.90-1 USD). This initiative became a model for other women in her community, encouraging them to grow their food and reducing dependency on market-bought produce.

Malka’s dedication didn’t stop with her success. As a “Lead Farmer,” she has taken on the role of a mentor, teaching other women in her village sustainable farming practices. She has trained seven other women farmers till now, imparting essential knowledge on water conservation, soil management, crop rotation, and organic farming. After adopting these eco-friendly practices, Malka’s mentees are also seeing improvements in crop yields, food security, and health. “When other women see what I’ve accomplished, they ask me how to do the same. I tell them that with the right knowledge and support, we can thrive together. Teaching others has been one of my greatest joys,” she says.

Malka’s success as a Lead Farmer has inspired over 45 farmers in her village to adopt sustainable farming practices and start kitchen gardens. Malka has strengthened her community’s resilience against food scarcity and financial instability by spreading knowledge and promoting sustainable agriculture. Her leadership has enhanced the role of women in agrarian communities by showcasing innovative farming techniques that have led to improved yields, inspiring others to adopt these practices. Malka’s journey exemplifies how women can leverage their skills and knowledge to drive agricultural development and make a lasting difference in their communities.

However, this path had its challenges due to limited access to land, agricultural resources, and financial services. But through persistence and support from CWSA, Malka tackled these challenges and paved the way for other women to take up leadership roles in agriculture.

Malka’s journey from a farmer with limited knowledge to a lead farmer and community mentor showcases the transformative power of education and support. Her story reflects the profound impact sustainable farming practices and community collaboration can have in building a stronger and more resilient future. 

The farmer hopes to continue expanding sustainable farming and helping other women gain the skills and confidence to succeed. Malka’s dream is to build a resilient community where families thrive, free from the economic challenges they once faced. “My vision for the future of our village is to see every farmer—especially women—adopting sustainable farming practices that protect our land, increase our yields, and ensure food security for generations to come. Together, we can improve our economic conditions and create opportunities for our children to live better lives,” she reiterated. 

[1] A lead farmer is a trained and experienced community representative who participates in Training of Trainers (TOT). After completing their training, they serve as role models, mentors, and extension agents, sharing knowledge with other farmers in their villages. They promote sustainable agricultural practices, improve crop yields, and work to enhance livelihoods within their communities.

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Quality and Accountability in humanitarian work are essential to ensure that aid effectively supports and empowers the communities it is intended to help. Community World Service Asia (CWSA) provides technical support and guidance to local humanitarian agencies in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and across the Asia-Pacific region to enhance quality and accountability by applying the Sphere Minimum Standards.

In partnership with Concern Worldwide, CWSA conducted a three-day workshop from 21 to 23 February 2024, in Umerkot, Sindh, titled “Integrating Sphere Technical Standards in Project Cycle Management”. Eighteen participants enrolled in the workshop, including 12 men and six women. The training focused on enhancing participants’ understanding and skills in applying the Sphere Minimum Standards throughout different Project Cycle Management (PCM) stages. It aimed to explain the philosophy and approach of Sphere and guide participants in navigating the Sphere handbook to help them integrate the standards into the humanitarian project cycle more effectively.

Local and national humanitarian practitioners were equipped with the technical, management, and programmatic skills required to enhance the quality of their internal operations and improve their effectiveness in disaster preparedness and response through the three days. Participants gained a thorough understanding of Sphere’s core principles and learned how to apply the standards across key themes such as water and sanitation, health, shelter, and nutrition. They also worked towards developing skills in needs assessment, response planning, and program implementation following Sphere guidelines.

“As humanitarian workers and development practitioners, we are all familiar with the various stages of project management. However, this training was especially valuable for understanding the practical application of Sphere standards during the project design and implementation stages,” said Harris Najeeb[1], Manager of Networking and Partnerships at ARTS Foundation, who participated in the training.

ARTS Foundation is a non-profit, indigenous civil society organisation based in Sindh. It focuses on capacity development, action research, policy advocacy, and humanitarian response. The foundation’s current projects are centered on flood recovery and response, particularly on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH).

“The Sphere technical standards of WASH & Hygiene, have been particularly informative for me. After the training, I conducted a session on WASH technical standards, for my team of community mobilisers & hygiene promoters. We are now referring to the Water Supply Standard 2.1 (Access and Water Quantity), Excreta Management Standard 3.2 (Access to and use of toilets) and Hygiene Promotion Standard 1.2 (Identification, access to and use of hygiene items). Our teams are using these indicators while designing toilets for communities.”

Harris has also helped his team update the organisation’s Safe Programming Matrix document, incorporating protection principles, gender sensitivity, operational context, and environmental impact, all in line with Sphere guidelines.

Although ARTS Foundation has not yet initiated the Sphere or Core Humanitarian Standards (CHS) accreditation process, they are keen to build their staff’s capacity on Sphere standards and integrate the Sphere approach into their grassroots community work.

Furthermore, participants acquired an understanding of accountability mechanisms, such as feedback and complaint systems, to promote transparency and community involvement. They also learned strategies to enhance coordination and collaboration with other humanitarian actors, thereby improving the overall effectiveness of emergency response efforts.

CWSA remains committed to supporting local NGOs and civil society in strengthening their knowledge and capacity on Sphere, to enhance the overall effectiveness of humanitarian and development responses.

[1] Interviewee: Engineer Haris Najeeb, Advocacy, Research, Training and Services (ARTS) Foundation, Sindh, artsf.haris@gmail,com, (03343317352)

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This comprehensive infographic outlines the impact of climate change in the region and our vision and strategic approaches to addressing climate change through sustainable practices, proactive anticipation, adaptation, and effective risk reduction. Join us in our commitment to creating resilient communities and a sustainable future for some of the most vulnerable, climate change-affected populations.

CWSA – Green Horizons Strategy DocumentDownload

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Life has taken a harsh turn for Lachhman, a 26-year-old father of two in a small village in Union Council Faqeer Abdullah of District Umerkot, Sindh. His family of five—two young daughters aged eight and seven, his wife, and his mother—depend entirely on agriculture as their primary source of income. On their five acres of rain-fed land, they once grew crops such as cluster beans, moth beans, and millet, which thrived in good rainfall seasons. This brought a yearly income of around PKR 70,000 to 80,000 (approximately 288 USD).

However, for the past five years, irregular and increasingly unreliable rainfall has made this a once-stable source of income precarious. The crop yield from their land has fallen by 50%, and rising inflation has made survival incredibly difficult for the family. Their total household expenditure, almost PKR 10,000 to 12,000 (approximately 44 USD), has become nearly impossible to meet for the couple. As a result,  the children cannot attend school—not just due to financial constraints but also because there is no school available in their village.

Recognising the challenges faced by agricultural communities like Lachhman’s, Community World Service Asia (CWSA) initiated a humanitarian project titled “Strengthening the Livelihoods and Resilience of Vulnerable Agricultural Communities in Rural Sindh, Pakistan”, supported by Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe (DKH). This initiative is specifically designed to support families whose livelihoods depend heavily on agriculture and have been severely impacted by unpredictable weather patterns and climate change impact, in terms of a significant drop in their income. The project aims to enable these families to adapt and survive in these challenging and evolving conditions.

Lachhman’s family was selected to receive assistance under this project, as their livelihood was 75% reliant on agriculture, and their income had drastically decreased due to poor crop yields. Lachhman received Multipurpose Cash Assistance (MPCA), distributed through mobile cash transfers (Telenor mobile wallet accounts). On October 8, 2024, he received his first installment of PKR 17,000 (approximately 62 USD). A total of five installments of the same amount will be provided, totaling PKR 85,000 (approximately 306 USD), during the project.

This first installment was a lifeline for Lachhman and his family. With the money, he bought new clothes for his children and met other essential needs, such as groceries. The timing of this assistance was important, as his crops were not yet ready for harvesting[1], and the family had no other source of income. Without this support, Lachhman might have had to borrow money, causing further financial difficulties.

For the future, Lachhman is already planning to invest the next installment in a small tuck shop. He requires PKR 15,000 to 20,000 (approx. USD 54 to 72) to fulfill this dream. He hopes this new business will provide his family with a steady daily income of PKR 200 to 300 (approx. USD 1 to 2), while also benefiting other villages, as there is currently only one shop in the area. In the meantime, Lachhman has also started cultivating his land again, planting cluster beans on two acres, moth beans on one acre, and millet on the remaining two acres. He managed to buy the seeds even before he received the financial assistance.

“I am very thankful to the whole team at CWSA for this immense support. If I had to borrow from someone, it would have caused a lot of difficulties going forward,” Lachhman said gratefully.

The selection of participating families in the project began in late August 2024, and CWSA had started providing much-needed financial assistance to those most in need by October. Through these efforts, families can survive the economic hardships brought on by climate change and maintain their livelihoods in the face of unpredictable weather conditions.

This initiative not only addresses immediate financial needs but also helps these vulnerable communities build resilience for the future. It helps reduce their suffering and survive challenging times with dignity. With support like this, families like Lachhman’s have hope for a more stable and prosperous future, despite the continuing challenges they face due to climate change and subsequent economic hardships.

[1] August is typically the harvest time for cluster beans and millet, but these had been severely affected

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Thirty-five-year-old Hasina, from the village of Khuda Bakhsh Dasti in Khairpur, suffered from severe lower abdominal pain, backaches, a burning sensation in her urinary tract, and vaginal itching. Her husband had spent a substantial amount of money taking her to clinics in Hyderabad and Larkana. Despite paying what were described as nominal fees to doctors and purchasing expensive medications from the clinics’ pharmacies, nothing seemed to work, even after multiple visits.

In late February 2024, Community World Service Asia (CWSA) and the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) launched their first medical health camp in their village. Dr Tayyaba Iqbal recalls how about two hundred villagers swarmed their vehicle. Although the team had enough time to treat only around 50 patients on the day, Dr Tayyaba and her assistant, Lady Health Visitor Mumtaz Kahlon, managed to attend to 95 people. Many unwell or healthy villagers came out of curiosity to witness the new “hospital in a van”.

Among the patients was Hasina, who had nearly lost faith in doctors. The camp’s doctors guided her to take a urine test that revealed a urinary tract infection (UTI), while an ultrasound ruled out the presence of kidney stones. Hasina was sent home with the appropriate antibiotics, finally on the path to recovery.

Twenty-one days later, Hasina returned to the second health camp in the village to report that the medication had worked perfectly and she was feeling well. However, during her third visit during Ramadan, she complained that she experienced burning again due to fasting regularly.

Dr Tayyaba prescribed oral rehydration salts (ORS) and advised Hasina to drink plenty of water. She also explained that maintaining her health by staying hydrated was important and that missing fasts due to illness was permissible.

Dr Tayyaba noted that the most common ailments in the village were scabies, malaria, asthma, and respiratory tract infections, with the prevalence of scabies and malaria attributed to stagnant water left behind by 2023’s floods. In addition to these recurring diseases, she observed that most patients were anaemic, likely due to iodine deficiency in their diet.

After holding just three medical camps, each lasting a single day with three weeks between them, the number of out-patients had dropped to fewer than 50 per day. This reduction indicated that villagers were more confident accessing regular medical care. More importantly, the effectiveness of the treatment provided by the mobile facility stood in stark contrast to the high-cost private clinics they had previously relied on.

Rukhsar is another woman from the same village, with a similarly challenging story. When the CWSA health camp first visited the village in late February 2024, she struggled to reach the facility, walking with great difficulty while carrying her daughter, who was too young to be left unsupervised. Although Rukhsar said her daughter was eighteen months old, the child appeared no older than six months and was so weak that she couldn’t even sit up on her own.

By late March, Rukhsar was full-term pregnant with her third child and was experiencing severe bleeding. The doctor diagnosed her with vaginal bleeding, leukorrhea, anaemia, malnutrition, and lower abdominal pain. This had been ongoing for over a month, during which her husband, Ghaffar, had sacrificed two days’ wages to take her by motorcycle to a private health facility in Khairpur, a two-and-a-half-hour journey. The doctor charged the couple PKR 1,000 (Approx 3.6 USD) for an ultrasound, PKR 1,000 (Approx 3.6 USD) for her consultation fee, and PKR 1,500 (Approx 5.4 USD) for medication from the clinic’s pharmacy. Additionally, the motorcycle fuel for the journey cost PKR 600 (Approx 2.2 USD).

Strangely, the medication Rukhsar received was prescribed for only three days, and when the dosage ended, she felt no better than before. The couple then tried the government health unit in nearby Thari Mirwah, where she was given medication for five days. Yet again, it had no effect.

The night before this interview, Rukhsar’s discomfort worsened, prompting her and Ghaffar to visit the Thari health unit. Upon arrival, she was kept waiting for over an hour while the doctor tried to determine if her abdominal pain was due to labour. After the wait, they sent her home, informing her that the baby was not yet due.

Having modest means, both Rukhsar and Ghaffar were deeply concerned. If the delivery required a caesarean, despite her first two children being born naturally, they didn’t know how they would arrange such a large sum of money at short notice. Seeking clarity, they returned to Thari the next morning. Rukhsar was given a blood test, which cost PKR 800 (Approx 8.9 USD), only to be told that her haemoglobin level was dangerously low at just nine and that she needed urgent treatment. Speaking in a barely audible voice, Rukhsar expressed her frustration that neither private nor government doctors had ever explained her condition or answered her questions.

When she first visited the CWSA health camp in February 2024, Rukhsar informed the doctor that, despite being eight months pregnant, she felt very weak foetal movements. After a thorough examination, she was given a prescription that stopped both her vaginal bleeding and leukorrhea, and she was also provided with dietary supplements. Upon her return in late March, she reported that all her symptoms had been resolved. A follow-up blood test confirmed that her haemoglobin levels had improved.

As they were preparing to leave, Ghaffar disclosed that their sickly daughter, who looks much younger than her age, had been diagnosed with a heart condition. He did not know the specifics, only that she had “holes in her heart”. A doctor from Thari had advised him to seek help from a primary health care unit in Sukkur, but that visit yielded no results. Ghaffar wonders whether the CWSA health camp can help his daughter, but fears that her condition might be beyond the scope of the facility. 

Although Ghaffar still doesn’t fully understand his daughter’s illness, he feels relieved and optimistic now that his wife, Rukhsar, is doing much better. The improvement in her health has eased his worries. 

As for Hasina, the proper medication and thorough check-up helped her fully recover from her infections and she can once again support her husband in the fields. 

Both families are living examples of how timely, effective medical care can transform lives in communities deprived of such services.

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CWSA is thrilled to announce the launch of ‘The Status of Frontline Humanitarian Workers’ Research study that it has been a part of in its research and Steering Committee. This study set out to assess the working conditions of frontline workers, better understand their unique challenges and needs, and offer practical recommendations to enhance their wellbeing and effectiveness. Specifically, it aimed to address the following four questions:

  1. What are the environmental and working conditions of frontline workers?
  2. To what extent do frontline workers have access to resources, training and support systems?
  3. What contractual terms and conditions, compensation and benefits are available to frontline workers?

How do these factors affect the wellbeing, resilience, and effectiveness of frontline workers, and what can be done to improve support?

The report’s recommendations aim to guide funders, policymakers and humanitarian organizations to craft interventions that account for frontline workers’ welfare, ensuring that humanitarian responses are more resilient.

Download complete report here.

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Bangkok, 10-12 December 2024

The Regional Humanitarian Partnership Week (RHPW) 2024, a flagship event co-hosted by the International Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA), Asian Disaster Reduction and Response Network (ADRRN), Community World Service Asia (CWSA), and United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), is underway in Bangkok.

Bringing together over 400 participants from 300 organisations across 61 countries, the RHPW serves as a premier platform for humanitarian professionals, civil society, and private sector actors to share best practices, rejuvenate partnerships, and explore sustainable, community-driven solutions to pressing humanitarian challenges.

This year’s discussions hold heightened significance as the Asia-Pacific region faces escalating complexities in humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by climate change, political shifts, and funding constraints. Participants are delving into innovative and unconventional partnerships, beyond the humanitarian sector, designed to foster resilience and self-sufficiency, and champion locally led solutions.

“The numbers show disasters per year, per month, and per week soaring in Asia and the Pacific. It is a stark reality that busy times are ahead for humanitarians and our partnerships. So, it is important that I see so many of these good people here in the room today,” shared Vincent Omuga, Head of Office, a.i., OCHA Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific in his opening address.

Rethinking Partnerships

Day one kicked off with vibrant conversations on rethinking partnerships to ensure they are equitable, inclusive, and diverse. Participants were encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and embrace partnerships that prioritise equity and local leadership.

The 2024 theme “Sparking Global Change through Local Solutions in Humanitarian Action” has resonated throughout the event, emphasising the importance of grassroots solutions.

Key Insights and Collaborative Solutions

RHPW 2024 is providing a platform to address urgent concerns voiced by humanitarian partners, such as leveraging technology for resilience and the pivotal role of communities and faith actors in driving climate action and anticipatory measures. Dedicated sessions explored gender inclusion, emphasising partnerships that amplify the voices of women, children, and persons with disabilities in humanitarian and climate programming.

A vibrant marketplace has been set up for the three-day event, offering participants a space to share insights, tools, and best practices while fostering cross-sector collaboration. Notably, sessions on technology, community leadership, and climate-focused initiatives have drawn significant engagement.

Driving Change, Year After Year

As the RHPW grows in scale and influence, it continues to be a vital space for dialogue, collaboration, and actionable insights. As co-organiser Keya Saha-Chaudhury notes, “Each year, RHPW pushes the boundaries of what is possible in humanitarian work, fostering partnerships and solutions that are both innovative and essential to addressing today’s global challenges. And it is the partnership between CWSA, ADRRN and ICVA that makes this important event possible.”

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Shireen Khalid[1], the Executive Director of Aid for Integrated Development (AID), was among the 21 participants (15 men and six women) at a three-day training conducted by Community World Service Asia (CWSA) on “Sphere In Practice: Integrating Sphere Technical Standards in Project Cycle Management”. The training held from January 2 to 4, 2024, in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, was organised on behalf of Concern Worldwide and supported by USAID/BHA. It aimed to enhance the participants’ understanding and application of the Sphere Minimum Standards at various stages of Project Cycle Management (PCM).

The workshop aimed to guide participants through the Sphere Handbook, illustrating how to adapt its minimum standards to humanitarian projects. During the training, the concept of the Humanitarian Standards Partnership (HSP) was introduced, and various tools for ensuring quality and accountability were explored.

Reflecting on her experience, Shireen shared, “This training has been quite useful, as it helped me contextualize and integrate Core Humanitarian Standards (CHS) in my work. The training gave me an opportunity to learn, reflect, and dive deep into the application of CHS standards and commitments in my organisation’s projects. Initially, Sphere was a mystery to me, but now I understand it more.”

Following the training, Shireen became a strong advocate for Sphere standards within her organisation. As part of her action plan, she began conducting information sessions on CHS, the Code of Conduct (CoC), and protection principles during their weekly meetings. Shireen was particularly impressed by the module on the importance of the CoC, Foundation Chapters, and its connection with Technical Standards.

One of Shireen’s favorite sessions centered on the Core Principles of the CoC, where participants reviewed staff behavior standards referring to page 385 of the Sphere Handbook. They worked in groups to evaluate which CoC principles their organisations adhered to and discussed areas for improvement, receiving detailed feedback from the facilitator. Additionally, a participatory exercise on protection principles led to practical suggestions, such as establishing psychosocial support and anti-harassment committees within organisations.

Shireen highlighted that her team is currently working through the Sphere Handbook, particularly focusing on the Shelter & WASH chapters. They are learning about access, protection, and the needs of displaced persons and persons with disabilities while designing homes and latrines for flood-affected communities in KPK province of Pakistan. Involving field coordinators and social mobilisers in these meetings has enriched discussions by linking concepts with actual program design and implementation.

Shireen also noted an increasing interest in Sphere standards among field staff, with more conversations centred on contextualising protection and Do-no-harm principles within their work. For instance, during a field visit to a school, a social mobiliser suggested considering the needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) when constructing ramps, referring to the Sphere Handbook for guidance.

AID applied for CHS certification last year, and the process is ongoing. There is a growing curiosity and interest in Sphere among senior leadership, project managers, and community mobilisers. Some staff members have even started accessing the Sphere website and signed up for the basic introductory course on Sphere. Community World Service Asia, in collaboration with its partners, remains committed to strengthening the capacity of local NGOs to promote and enhance quality and accountability across Asia. Through initiatives ranging from capacity building and technical support to deploying quality and accountability teams to disaster-affected areas, CWSA believes in investing in the capacity of national and subnational NGOs. This investment contributes to an improved, timely, efficient, and effective humanitarian response, enhancing service delivery within Pakistan’s humanitarian sector.

[1] Interviewee: Shireen, Executive Director-Alliance for Integrated Development (AID), www.aid.org.pk | Email: shireenkwadud@hotmail.co.uk

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