Federal govt committed to develop wool sector in Balochistan
ISLAMABAD, 06 April: The Ministry of National Food Security and Research (MNFSR) in collaboration with Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) organized a one day workshop on ‘National Wool Development Programme” at the FAO Representation premises in Islamabad on April 6.
Mr. Sikandar Hayat Khan Bosan, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research chaired this workshop.
The workshop aimed at seeking suggestions and recommendations for the best way forward in developing the wool sector in Balochistan to improve the rural economy of the province by implementing a long term sustainable wool development programme in Pakistan.
Speaking on the occasion Minister Bosan said: “There is a need to expand and professionalize the wool sector in Balochistan which accounts for 50% of sheep in Pakistan with eventual expansion to other parts of the country. Workshops like this will help bring all stakeholders on one platform and this will lead to a more unified and complete approach towards uplift of wool farming and relevant sectors”.
He also said that the Government with the help of FAO and USAID are progressing steadily in highlighting the issues related to wool production and improving the conditions for local livestock farmers.
The wool programme will be coordinated by FAO in close cooperation with the Government of Balochistan and the Federal Government (MNFSR) as main programme partners and the DGs of Sindh, Punjab and KP at a later stage.
Mr. Patrick T. Evans, FAO Representative to Pakistan informed the participants that wool has a high potential for development in Balochistan and this important resource will be used to improve
livelihoods of rural farmers including women. He invited the participants to make practical recommendations and financial contribution for development of the wool value chain in Balochistan.
Mr. Ubaidullah Jan Babat, Adviser to the Chief Minister Balochistan on Livestock, Forest and Environment Department was also present on the occasion along with representatives from government and development sector organizations.
A well-functioning wool value chain in Balochistan will create employment for herders, shearers, wool washers, sorters, graders, balers, spinners, dyers, traders and transporters. Much of this work can be done by women. The proposed program (From Sheep to Shawl) will cover all aspects of the wool value chain from improved and sustainable rangeland management to vaccination, better feeding of sheep, delivery of shearing services and added value activities such as carpet making.
