Himat
The HiMaT Indigenous Leadership and Development Program is a project of KADO focused on building the capacity of rural communities, institutions, and leaders for sustainable peace, prosperity and well-being in remote areas. The primary focus of the project is the “Women Empowerment Initiative” to strengthen the capacity of women from this particular region to become equitable partners in decision-making processes and community development initiatives that uplift the economic and social well-being at the household, village, regional and national levels.
Objectives
To mobilize and train grassroots women in the targeted project areas by building knowledge and skills to work cooperatively in groups, plan, and implement local development initiatives. To strengthen the capacity of women’s organizations at the local and regional levels to plan, implement, and evaluate social and economic development initiatives. To strengthen the voice of women in local and regional-level decision-making by training women’s leaders and stimulating the creation of a focal point for women’s affairs.
Impact
90% of the WOs are actively engaged in program activities from the Hunza region. All 09 LSOs in Hunza are active and 100% of households are engaged. Community Comprehensive Development plan developed in 5 LSO areas. Around 10,000 community members have taken training through the HiMaT training series program.
47 Small businesses are established through a revolving loan fund provided for WOs.
72 Quick win projects are provided for livelihood initiatives.
Beneficiaries and Impact
Over the years, KADO’s initiatives have impacted a substantial number of beneficiaries. For example, the organization engaged 3,000 women artisans under the KHDP project, leading to transformation in their personal and professional lives. KADO’s introduction of the internet in Hunza in the early 2000s connected over 10,000 students and professionals across G-B and Chitral to global opportunities.
Additionally, KADO’s partnership with the Government of Pakistan in 2004 led to the rollout of Women’s IT Vocational training across all ten districts of Gilgit-Baltistan. Since 2009, the Himmat -ILDP/WEI Program under KADO’s umbrella has trained 3,600 community members and provided small grants to 94 groups, with over 60% of participants being women. The organization continues to establish Community Tech Hubs, run Digital Livelihood Training Programs, build the capacity of SMEs and Artisans in Gilgit-Baltistan, produce eco-friendly products, and advocate for gender equity, all underpinned by sustainable and inclusive strategies.
Within our ongoing initiative, as part of a project in collaboration with EDF, we have successfully provided training to 997 women artisans. This training has encompassed product and skill development, e-commerce proficiency, and financial inclusion.