KP Launches Landmark Social Protection Strategy with German Support
Peshawar : The Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with the support of the German Government through GIZ, has launched its first Social Protection Strategy, marking a significant milestone in the province’s efforts to ensure dignity, inclusion, and resilience for all citizens.
Organized through the Public Policy and Social Protection Reforms Unit (PP&SPRU), housed in the Sustainable Development Unit (SDU) of the Planning and Development Department, the launch brought together senior officials from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Sindh, and the Federal Government, along with representatives from development partners, academia, and civil society, for discussions on implementation, long-term impact, and interprovincial learning.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Social Protection Strategy aims to build an integrated and people-centered system in which diverse programs operate under a coordinated framework guided by the province’s Social Protection Policy 2022. Serving as an actionable roadmap for 2025–2030, it links social protection with disaster risk management, gender equality, and livelihood promotion, positioning Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a national leader in rights-based and adaptive social protection. The strategy has been developed together with the support of German Development Cooperation via GIZ and FCDO.
Muhammad Nadir Khan Rana, Special Secretary Planning & Development Department, highlighted the importance of Social Protection as not only a moral imperative but a key investment in human capital and social cohesion. In an era marked by economic uncertainty, climate risks, and social change, the ability of individuals and communities to withstand and recover from shocks is critical.
Maria Jose Poddey, Country Director, GIZ Pakistan, said, “The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Social Protection Strategy is a landmark step toward a more inclusive and resilient society. Developed through a truly participatory process, it reflects strong political commitment and a shared vision to make social protection responsive, data-driven, and adaptive to climate and economic challenges. GIZ is proud to continue supporting the province in turning this vision into reality.”
In his remarks, Muhammad Taufique, Additional Secretary, Planning & Development Department, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stated that “The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Social Protection Strategy marks the province’s transition from fragmented welfare schemes to a unified, institutional framework. By establishing the Social Protection Authority, harmonising data through a unified registry, and strengthening fiscal mechanisms, we are ensuring that social protection becomes a coordinated and accountable system embedded in governance, not charity.”
Speaking on the occasion, Muhammad Khalid Zaman, Director General, Sustainable Development Unit (SDU), said that “This Strategy stands as a testament to effective partnerships and shared vision. The commitment of provincial leadership, the dedication of our teams, and the technical support of GIZ and SNG have made this possible. Our next challenge, and opportunity, is implementation: translating this vision into measurable impact for the poorest and most vulnerable households.”
In his address, Kamran khan, Project Director, Public Policy & Social Protection Reforms Unit (PP&SPRU), highlighted that “At its heart, the Social Protection Strategy introduces a data-driven and technology-enabled approach to targeting and service delivery. Tools like the Provincial Socio-Economic Registry and unified payment systems will enhance transparency, reduce duplication, and ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most efficiently and with dignity.”
In her closing remarks, Ms. Johanna Knoess, Head of Project, Adaptive Social Protection and Social Protection – Social Health Protection at GIZ Pakistan, commended the Government of KP for its leadership and collaboration and said, “Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has shown remarkable foresight by developing its first Social Protection Strategy. Rooted in dignity, inclusion, and resilience, it sets a model for other provinces to follow. The German Government is proud to accompany this journey through continued technical cooperation.”
The ceremony concluded with appreciation for all stakeholders who contributed to the formulation of the Strategy. With the establishment of a dedicated Social Protection Authority now on the horizon, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is poised to translate this Strategy into coordinated action and tangible improvements in service delivery.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
