The Gates Foundation plans to support around 620,000 women and children in Pakistan this year through programmes focused on financial assistance, nutrition, livelihoods and access to citizen facilitation services.
A programme in South Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is expected to reach approximately 170,000 women and 450,000 children. The foundation is also expanding its work in maternal and child health, women’s economic participation and human capital development.
The organisation is further exploring the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare as part of its efforts to improve health services and expand access to innovative solutions.
During discussions with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, the foundation also reviewed areas including SME financing, digital innovation, agriculture and private-sector investment. Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in health, financial inclusion, human capital development and digital technology.
The expanded programmes are aimed at supporting vulnerable communities while creating opportunities for women and improving outcomes for children.
The focus on digital technology and AI-based healthcare also reflects growing efforts to use innovation to address development challenges and improve the delivery of essential services.
The foundation’s planned support comes alongside broader discussions with Pakistan’s government on economic development, investment and financial inclusion.
The cooperation could provide additional support for communities while encouraging greater use of technology and innovative approaches in Pakistan’s health and economic sectors.
