ADB, Sindh launch Rs440m initiative
The Asian Development Bank (ADB), in collaboration with the Government of Sindh, has launched a Rs440 million business recovery and empowerment initiative for families impacted by the 2022 floods. According to a statement issued on Wednesday, ADB's Gender Specialist Judha Bukhari led a delegation to Hyderabad on Wednesday and held a strategic meeting with the Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry (HCSTSI).
During the meeting, Bukhari stated that 2.1 million families were affected by the floods and, in the first phase, over 6,000 households will receive financial assistance ranging from Rs100,000 to Rs300,000 to help them establish small businesses suited to their needs.
She said the aim is to empower vulnerable communities through sustainable livelihoods and appreciated HCSTSI's support in conducting the upcoming business survey in Hyderabad.
HCSTSI Acting President Ahmed Idrees Chohan lauded the initiative as a timely effort to help women and youth achieve financial independence. He highlighted business models such as tailoring, tiffin services, and e-commerce training.
Vice President Shan Sehgal emphasised the potential of hospitality and food ventures, citing Bangladesh's success with women-led microenterprises. He called for youth training in marketing and technical skills to foster self-sufficient businesses.
The meeting was attended by ADB officials and HCSTSI members, including former president Muhammad Akram Ansari.
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