Rural Aid Pakistan

ORGANISATION
Rural Aid Pakistan

LOCATION
Pakistan

Bashir Ahmed (pictured above), a 24-year-old farmer from Bhari village in Pakistan’s Narowal district, is reaping the benefits of a solar-powered drip irrigation project by Rural Aid Pakistan. The project established Youth Farmer Support Groups (YFSGs) to equip young farmers like Bashir with skills in water management, climate-smart agriculture, and disaster risk reduction.

By adopting these practices, Bashir saw a 40% increase in crop production and tripled his income by focusing on short-term, profitable crops. His farm’s success created jobs in the village and inspired others to follow suit. The solar drip irrigation system didn’t just benefit Bashir; 28 other small farms in the village also saw improved output.

This initiative showcases how young people can lead the way in building resilient communities. Through climate-smart farming and better resource management, these efforts align with the global push for disaster risk reduction and sustainable agriculture.

Young people planting Fruit trees as part of Rural Aid Pakistan’s Go Green Campaign

Under Rural Aid’s Go Green Campaign (pictured above), trained youth are planting and protecting fruit trees to build climate-friendly, resilient communities. These young climate ambassadors raise awareness, mobilise communities, and advocate for environmental protection and disaster risk reduction. By restoring nature and enhancing livelihoods, the initiative empowers youth to take action against climate change while helping communities become more resilient to future disasters.

From awareness to action, young people lead the way in pushing for climate and disaster resilience. This story and photograph is a part of our celebration of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2024. Members from across our network have shared their stories of youth-led or focussed resilience work. It demonstrates that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the changemakers today, driving forward local actions that build resilience to disasters and reduce risk.

All photos: Rural Aid Pakistan