Pakistan has officially started its Pandemic Fund program with support from WHO, FAO, and ADB. A national-level consultation was held in Islamabad to begin the project, which will set up “One Health Units” across the country.
The program, led by the Ministry of National Health Services, focuses on linking human, animal, and environmental health to better tackle future health threats. The National Institute of Health (NIH) will coordinate the project, which supports Pakistan’s National Action Plan for Health Security.
Dr. Shabana Saleem, Director General Health, said the fund will help Pakistan build strong systems for disease control and response. Over 70 experts and officials attended the launch, discussing early warning systems and cross-sector teamwork.
FAO’s Florence Rolle praised Pakistan’s steps toward food safety and health, while WHO’s Dr. Dapeng Luo stressed the need to be ready for future pandemics. ADB’s Mansoor Ali Masood also supported the creation of One Health Units for joint action and fast response.
Pakistan has received $18.7 million from the global Pandemic Fund, with more funds from co-financing and investment partners. The event ended with a promise to build a National One Health Secretariat and improve coordination in all provinces.
