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PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Organizes Provincial Summit on Climate Change, Resilience, and Disaster Risk Reduction

The Pakistan Red Crescent Society Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Headquarters (PRCS KP) successfully organized a Provincial Summit on “Climate Change, Resilience, and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)” at the Governor House, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, bringing together government officials, humanitarian partners, environmental experts, and community representatives to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change.

The summit was graced by His Excellency Faisal Karim Kundi, Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as Chief Guest. Distinguished attendees included Mr. Obaidullah Khan, Secretary General PRCS, Mr. Asif Aman Khan, Head of Office German Red Cross (GRC), Mr. Muhammad Ali Babakhel, Additional Inspector General of Police KP, as well as representatives from the Climate Change and Adaptation (CCA) Team of PRCS National Headquarters, GRC Pakistan Program, IFRC, and ICRC.

The event also brought together key governmental and non-governmental stakeholders, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA KP), Relief and Rehabilitation Department, Forest Department, National Humanitarian Network (NHN), Pakistan Humanitarian Forum (PHF), Ayesha Foundation, WSSP, Watsan Cell, Education Department, Directorate General Commerce, Education and Management Science, International Rescue Committee (IRC), University of Peshawar, Bahauddin Zakaria University Multan, Pakistan Meteorological Department, Transport Department, Islamic Relief Pakistan, provincial staff of PRCS, IFRC delegates, media representatives, journalists, and young performers including actors from PTV.

The summit aimed to:

  • Discuss the impacts of increasing climate change in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

  • Review the provincial environmental policy

  • Share research-based recommendations

  • Promote inter-agency cooperation

  • Encourage proactive disaster preparedness measures

  • Increase public awareness

  • Recognize institutions and individuals contributing to climate resilience

Over 200 participants actively engaged in discussions, highlighting the importance of collaboration between government, humanitarian actors, academia, and the community to build resilient and prepared societies capable of addressing climate-related challenges.

The summit concluded under the supervision of Chairman PRCS KP, Mr. Farzand Ali Wazir, with Governor Faisal Karim Kundi delivering the closing remarks. The event ended with a commitment to continue appreciating and supporting the services of all institutions and partners contributing to climate resilience and humanitarian work in the province.

This summit reaffirmed PRCS KP’s leadership in fostering climate action, disaster preparedness, and multi-stakeholder cooperation, ensuring that communities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are better equipped to face environmental and disaster-related challenges.

PRCS KP Conducts Orientation Session on Restoring Family Links (RFL)

The Pakistan Red Crescent Society Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (PRCS KP) organized a one-day orientation session on Restoring Family Links (RFL) under the supervision of the RFL Manager, PRCS KP. The session brought together newly appointed staff from the Norwegian Red Cross (NRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and core team members of PRCS.

The session aimed to enhance the understanding of participants—both new and existing staff—regarding the Restoring Family Links (RFL) services offered across Pakistan. The initiative focused on building the capacity of humanitarian workers to support the restoration of family connections, particularly for individuals and families separated due to conflict, disaster, migration, or other humanitarian crises.

Strengthening Humanitarian Response Through RFL

During the orientation, the RFL Manager briefed participants on the fundamental principles, operational mechanisms, and coordination structure of RFL activities implemented nationwide. The session covered key aspects such as tracing requests, restoring contact between separated family members, family reunification, and the importance of maintaining confidentiality and dignity in handling sensitive cases.

Participants also gained insights into how RFL operations align with the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement’s global humanitarian mandate—to protect family unity and uphold human dignity in times of crisis.

Interactive Learning and Shared Experiences

The session provided an engaging platform for participants to exchange experiences and discuss practical approaches to improving RFL service delivery. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and real-life examples, the attendees explored how technology, coordination, and community outreach can be effectively used to trace and reconnect separated families.

Commitment to Humanitarian Excellence

At the conclusion of the session, participants expressed their appreciation for PRCS KP’s initiative, describing the orientation as informative, insightful, and highly valuable for enhancing professional capacity. They emphasized that such learning opportunities not only strengthen staff understanding of RFL services but also contribute to improving the quality and reach of humanitarian assistance provided to those in need.

The Pakistan Red Crescent Society Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains committed to upholding the humanitarian values of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement by ensuring that families torn apart by crises can once again be reunited, restoring hope and connection where it is needed most.

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

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.

Chairman PRCS KP Visits Mobile Health Unit and Medical Camp in Flood-Affected Areas of Buner

Buner, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – October 2025:
The Chairman of Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Branch, Mr. Farzand Ali Wazir, visited the Mobile Health Unit (MHU) and Medical Camp established in the flood-affected areas of District Buner. The visit aimed to assess healthcare delivery, review medical facilities, and ensure that flood-affected communities continue to receive timely and quality medical services.

Providing Healthcare to the Most Vulnerable

During the visit, Chairman Farzand Ali Wazir personally reviewed the availability of medicines, functioning of medical facilities, and performance of the field staff working tirelessly in challenging conditions. He interacted with the healthcare workers and local residents to better understand their needs and the impact of the services being provided.

Expressing satisfaction over the standard of care, Mr. Wazir appreciated the dedication of PRCS medical and volunteer teams who continue to serve disaster-hit families with compassion and professionalism. He reaffirmed PRCS’s mission to make essential healthcare accessible to those in need, especially in remote and vulnerable communities.

Mobile Health Units – Bringing Relief to Doorsteps

Highlighting the importance of mobile healthcare, Chairman Farzand Ali Wazir said:

“The Mobile Health Units are playing a vital role in providing free medical care and timely relief to vulnerable communities. These services bring healthcare directly to those who might otherwise remain unreached, ensuring that no one is left behind in times of crisis.”

The Mobile Health Unit and Medical Camp in Buner provide essential healthcare services such as general consultations, maternal and child health, disease prevention, and first aid, supported by qualified medical staff and dedicated volunteers. These mobile facilities have become lifelines for many families who lost access to healthcare due to flood damages.

Recognizing the Spirit of Service

Commending the field teams and volunteers, the Chairman noted that their commitment exemplifies the true spirit of humanity, empathy, and selfless service.

“Our teams in the field are the real heroes of our humanitarian mission. Their dedication reflects the core values of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement—serving people in need without discrimination,” he said.

Commitment to Compassionate Action

Under the leadership of Chairman Farzand Ali Wazir, the PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Branch continues to deliver critical humanitarian assistance across the province, including medical aid, cash assistance, disaster relief operations, and health awareness programs. By deploying Mobile Health Units and emergency response teams, PRCS KP ensures that healthcare and relief services reach those who need them most, upholding the values of humanity, neutrality, and voluntary service.

About PRCS Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Branch

The Pakistan Red Crescent Society Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Branch is a leading humanitarian organization dedicated to alleviating human suffering and building resilient communities. Through its strong volunteer network and collaboration with international partners, PRCS KP continues to respond to emergencies, promote public health, and strengthen disaster preparedness across the province.

“Eid Mubarak from PRCS Khyber PAKHTUNKHWA – celebrating the festival of joy by bringing joy to those in need.”