As Pakistan strides toward sustainable development, a transformative UK-funded initiative, the Sub-National Governance Programme (2019–2025), has concluded with remarkable achievements in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). This landmark programme unlocked over £1.9 billion in public finance by enhancing planning, budgeting, and revenue mobilization, directly impacting millions of lives. From pioneering pension reforms to rolling out innovative social protection schemes and sustainable waste management, the programme has set a new benchmark for governance in Pakistan.
A Game-Changer for Public Finance
The Sub-National Governance Programme, spanning six years, worked hand-in-hand with the provincial governments of Punjab and KP to streamline financial systems. By improving budgeting and revenue collection, the programme unlocked £1.9 billion, enabling reinvestment into critical public services. A standout achievement was in Punjab, where the programme supported the development of a groundbreaking pensions reform plan. This new contributory pension scheme, where both employers and employees share contributions, is projected to save the Government of Punjab a staggering PKR 2.7 trillion over the next 30 years. These savings will bolster funding for healthcare, education, and infrastructure, paving the way for long-term prosperity.
Empowering Communities Through Social Protection
The programme’s impact extends beyond financial reforms to directly improving livelihoods. In Punjab, it facilitated the collection of social and economic data for 35 million people, enabling the government to deliver targeted cash assistance and food subsidies. Key initiatives include:
Ba-Himmat Buzurg: A social protection scheme providing financial aid to elderly individuals with no income source, offering dignity and support in their later years.
Himmat Card: A pioneering program in Punjab that delivers financial assistance to people with disabilities, fostering inclusivity and empowerment.
These initiatives have transformed how the government identifies and supports vulnerable populations, ensuring aid reaches those who need it most.
Sustainable Development in Action
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the programme revolutionized waste management by introducing sustainable door-to-door waste collection systems. This initiative, now being scaled up province-wide, has made communities cleaner, healthier, and more environmentally sustainable. By addressing critical urban challenges, the programme has improved living conditions and set a model for other provinces to follow.
Voices of Impact
British High Commission Development Director, Sam Waldock, celebrated the programme’s success, stating:
“This programme shows what is possible when strong partnerships come together to support long-term reform, changing people’s lives. We’ve strengthened institutions, improved service delivery, and helped Pakistan unlock more of its resources to finance its own development. That has led to direct improvements to the day-to-day lives of millions—from helping people to access essential cash assistance, to creating waste management systems which makes their surroundings cleaner and more hygienic.”
This sentiment underscores the collaborative spirit driving these reforms and their profound impact on Pakistani communities.
A Legacy of Progress
The Sub-National Governance Programme has laid a strong foundation for sustainable governance in Pakistan. By strengthening institutions and enhancing service delivery, it has empowered provincial governments to better serve their citizens. The programme’s focus on data-driven decision-making, as seen in Punjab’s social protection initiatives, and innovative urban solutions, like KP’s waste management overhaul, demonstrates its far-reaching influence.
UK’s Continued Commitment
The UK’s commitment to Pakistan’s development remains steadfast. Building on the successes of the Sub-National Governance Programme, the UK, in partnership with the UN Development Programme, will launch the new National Governance Programme. This initiative will continue to prioritize institutional reform and public financial management, with a focus on advancing pension reforms and other key initiatives. This ongoing collaboration signals a shared vision for a stronger, self-reliant Pakistan.
Why It Matters
The Sub-National Governance Programme is a testament to the power of international partnerships in driving meaningful change. By unlocking billions in public finance, supporting vulnerable populations, and promoting sustainable practices, the programme has transformed lives across Punjab and KP. As Pakistan continues its journey toward economic and social progress, the lessons and achievements of this initiative will inspire future reforms.
The UK’s Sub-National Governance Programme (2019–2025) has left an indelible mark on Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, proving that strategic reforms can yield transformative results. From saving trillions through pension reforms to empowering millions with social protection and cleaner environments, the programme has redefined governance in Pakistan. As the UK and Pakistan look to the future with the new National Governance Programme, the legacy of this partnership will continue to shape a brighter, more prosperous Pakistan.
