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Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Stresses Preparedness for Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction at PRCS Provincial Summit

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The Honorable Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Mr. Faisal Karim Kundi, emphasized the urgent need for preparedness against climate change and other emerging challenges during a provincial summit organized by the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction. The event took place at the Governor House, Peshawar, where experts, officials, and stakeholders gathered to discuss strategies to mitigate the growing risks posed by natural disasters and environmental changes.

Governor Kundi highlighted that the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly severe, with the country now facing unprecedented disasters that are impacting food security, the economy, and social structures. He noted that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, along with the entire country, is currently experiencing extraordinary climatic conditions, underscoring the need for effective institutional and community-level strategies to reduce disaster risks.

The summit was attended by PRCS KP Chairman Mr. Farzand Ali Wazir, environmental experts, educators, and officials from relevant government departments. During the event, documentaries showcasing PRCS KP’s humanitarian services during recent natural disasters were presented, highlighting the organization’s vital role in disaster response and community support.

Experts in environmental science, education, and community development shared insights on the challenges posed by climate change and ways to strengthen resilience and preparedness at the community level.

Governor Kundi congratulated PRCS KP for organizing the summit on this critical global issue, praising the dedicated performance of PRCS staff in recent disaster relief operations and recognizing the support of donor agencies. He emphasized that climate change and disaster risk management are not just academic topics but urgent challenges linked to Pakistan’s future, requiring immediate and effective action.

He warned that failure to address environmental risks with wisdom and responsibility could threaten the nation’s overall social and economic systems. Governor Kundi urged PRCS to develop mechanisms to prepare communities, train volunteers, and educate the public on coping with natural disaster risks. While acknowledging that natural disasters cannot be completely prevented, he stressed that strong institutional and social strategies can significantly reduce their impact.

Finally, the Governor assured that, in his role, he would continue to support and collaborate with all relevant institutions, particularly those engaged in community services and disaster management, to build a safer and more resilient society.

PRCS KP Conducts First Aid Simulation Exercise on Mass Casualty Incident in Swat

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The Pakistan Red Crescent Society Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (PRCS KP), with the support of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and in collaboration with Rescue 1122, organized a First Aid Simulation Exercise on Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) at the PRCS Swat Branch.

The exercise was designed to provide hands-on experience to the Emergency Response Team (ERT) members and Rescue 1122 personnel, enhancing their preparedness and coordination during large-scale emergencies.

During the simulation, participants demonstrated practical first aid, triage management, and firefighting skills in a controlled, yet realistic environment. The scenario replicated a mass casualty situation, allowing responders to apply their training in assessing injuries, prioritizing patients, performing emergency bandaging, transporting casualties on stretchers, and managing on-site coordination effectively.

Throughout the activity, PRCS volunteers and Rescue 1122 staff worked side-by-side to ensure timely response and efficient teamwork—key components in real-life disaster or emergency operations. The exercise highlighted the importance of communication, mutual support, and rapid decision-making in saving lives when every second counts.

PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa extends sincere gratitude to the ICRC and Rescue 1122 Swat for their technical assistance and continuous support in strengthening the skills and capacity of volunteers and staff. This initiative is part of PRCS KP’s ongoing commitment to enhancing community resilience and ensuring a prompt humanitarian response in times of need.

PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Conducts Three-Day Workshop on Epidemic Control and Risk Communication in District Buner

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Under the DREF Monsoon 2025 Operation, the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Branch, with the technical and financial support of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), successfully organized a three-day capacity-building workshop on Epidemic Control for Volunteers (ECV) and Risk Communication & Community Engagement (RCCE) in District Buner.

The training aimed to strengthen the capacity of PRCS Mobile Health Unit (MHU) staff and volunteers to effectively prevent, identify, and respond to epidemic outbreaks and other public health emergencies at the community level.

Enhancing Local Preparedness and Response

Throughout the workshop, participants received comprehensive sessions on disease surveillance, outbreak management, hygiene promotion, infection prevention and control (IPC), and the role of volunteers during epidemics. Trainers highlighted the importance of early detection and community-based surveillance as the first line of defense against the spread of infectious diseases.

Practical demonstrations were also conducted to help participants understand standard first aid measures, sanitation practices, and safe water handling techniques essential in post-disaster environments. Volunteers engaged in group exercises and role-play activities designed to simulate real-life emergency situations, ensuring that they are well-prepared to act swiftly and efficiently during crises.

Focus on Risk Communication and Community Engagement

A significant portion of the training focused on Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) — a critical component in managing epidemics effectively. Participants were trained on how to disseminate accurate information, counter misinformation, and engage communities in adopting preventive health behaviors.

The sessions emphasized the role of trust, empathy, and transparency in community outreach, equipping volunteers with communication skills necessary to reach remote and vulnerable populations.

Empowering Volunteers for Sustainable Impact

Through this workshop, PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reinforced its ongoing commitment to building resilient communities capable of withstanding public health threats. The training also encouraged peer learning and collaboration among PRCS teams, ensuring that knowledge gained will be replicated and shared across other districts as part of the Society’s broader epidemic preparedness strategy.

Chairman PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Farzand Ali Wazir appreciated the dedication of the MHU staff and volunteers, acknowledging their vital role as frontline responders who bring health services directly to those in need. He also expressed gratitude to IFRC for its continuous partnership and support in strengthening humanitarian and health response capacities in Pakistan.

Commitment to Humanitarian Excellence

The Pakistan Red Crescent Society remains steadfast in its mission to serve humanity with compassion and professionalism, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive timely, dignified, and effective assistance. Through ongoing training, awareness, and collaboration with international partners, PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa continues to play a pivotal role in safeguarding public health and community well-being across the province.

German Red Cross Delegation Briefed on Ongoing Humanitarian Activities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

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Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – October 2025:
A delegation from the German Red Cross (GRC) visited the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Branch and received a comprehensive briefing on the Society’s ongoing humanitarian and relief activities across the province. The discussions centered on aid distribution efforts, community outreach programs, and field operations designed to support flood-affected and vulnerable communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The session was chaired by Chairman PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Mr. Farzand Ali Wazir, who provided an overview of the branch’s recent humanitarian interventions, disaster response operations, and the critical role played by PRCS volunteers in reaching communities in need.

Strengthening Humanitarian Cooperation

In his address, Chairman Farzand Ali Wazir expressed his appreciation for the continued partnership between the German Red Cross and PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emphasizing that this collaboration has greatly enhanced the branch’s ability to deliver timely and dignified assistance to disaster-affected families.

“The unwavering support of our partners, including the German Red Cross, has enabled PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to strengthen its humanitarian outreach and serve people in their moments of greatest need. Our volunteers remain the backbone of our mission—working day and night to support vulnerable communities with compassion and commitment,” he stated.

Commitment to Serving Humanity

The meeting was attended by Mr. Cyriakus Brautigam (Head of Office, German Red Cross Pakistan), Mr. Asif Khan, Mr. Muhammad Qaswar Abbas (Programme Delegate), and Mr. Sher Ahmad Shad (Programme Manager), along with PRCS officials and field staff. The participants reviewed progress in ongoing relief operations and discussed ways to further enhance coordination in humanitarian action across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The delegation lauded PRCS KP’s efforts in disaster response, healthcare services, and community resilience programs, recognizing the dedication of its volunteers and staff who continue to serve in challenging environments. Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to humanitarian values—ensuring that all assistance is provided with humanity, integrity, transparency, and resilience.

Moving Forward Together

Concluding the session, both organizations agreed to continue their close collaboration in strengthening disaster preparedness, community resilience, and humanitarian response capacity in the province. The partnership between PRCS KP and the German Red Cross remains a cornerstone of humanitarian cooperation, enabling sustainable support for those affected by natural disasters and crises.

“Together, we will keep working to bring hope and relief to the people who need it most,” Chairman Farzand Ali Wazir concluded.

About PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Branch

The Pakistan Red Crescent Society Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Branch is a leading humanitarian organization dedicated to alleviating human suffering, supporting disaster-affected populations, and strengthening community resilience. Through its network of volunteers and partnerships with international organizations like the German Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), PRCS KP continues to deliver life-saving assistance, healthcare, and disaster preparedness programs across the province.