The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) Pakistan and the Embassy of Denmark have signed a new partnership to support climate resilient agriculture in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, aiming to protect livelihoods and improve food security in some of Pakistan’s most vulnerable mountain regions.
Under the agreement, the initiative will promote sustainable and diversified farming practices to help communities adapt to climate change. The project focuses on climate smart and regenerative agriculture, better water management, and the development of green business models suited to fragile mountain environments.
Around 5,890 people are expected to benefit directly from the project, while nearly 34,000 others will gain indirect support. Special emphasis will be placed on the inclusion of women, youth, and marginalised groups to ensure fair access to opportunities and long-term income stability.
The agreement was signed in Islamabad on December 17, 2025, by Denmark’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Maja Derrous Mortensen, and Akhtar Iqbal, Chief Executive Officer of the Aga Khan Foundation Pakistan. Senior officials from the Embassy of Denmark and the Aga Khan Development Network also attended the ceremony.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Mortensen said the initiative marks the third collaboration between Denmark and AKF Pakistan. She highlighted that the project will equip local communities with practical skills and knowledge for climate-smart agriculture, while empowering women and youth to take an active role in building resilient and sustainable livelihoods.
Akhtar Iqbal said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to tackling the growing impacts of climate change in northern Pakistan. He noted that strengthening local agricultural systems will help communities better cope with changing environmental conditions and secure their future.
As part of the programme, farmers will receive training in modern, climate-friendly farming techniques. The project will also support improvements in irrigation infrastructure, efficient water use, and community owned natural resource management systems. Women and young entrepreneurs will take part in innovation bootcamps, with selected participants receiving micro grants to turn ideas into viable ventures.
The initiative will be implemented by the Aga Khan Foundation in collaboration with agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network, including the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme, with the goal of creating practical and replicable models for resilient mountain agriculture.
