In a unique initiative, Secours Islamique France (SIF) teamed up with the Climate Change Wing of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) Islamabad to organize a plantation drive under its Orphan Sponsorship Program. The event aimed to promote climate change awareness, disaster risk reduction, and psychosocial support among orphan children and their mothers.
As part of this pilot project, SIF brought together orphan children and their mothers for a day of interactive activities, skill development, and environmental stewardship. The plantation drive focused on capacity building, life skills development, and communication skills enhancement, all while promoting a healthy and positive environment.
The children thoroughly enjoyed planting trees, with the SIF team providing guidance and support throughout the process. The team explained the importance of tree planting in mitigating climate change effects and disaster risk reduction, helping the children understand the value of their contributions.
Through this hands-on experience, the children learned about the significance of trees in:
- Absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen
- Preventing soil erosion and landslides
- Providing shade and shelter
- Supporting biodiversity
This collaborative effort marked a significant milestone in SIF’s climate change program, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and environmental conservation. By engaging vulnerable children in plantation activities, SIF aimed to minimize stress, promote mental wellbeing, and provide psychosocial support to families.
This partnership with CDA paves the way for future coordination and joint initiatives on climate change, environment, and disaster risk reduction. SIF remains committed to working towards a sustainable future for Pakistan and the planet, one tree at a time.
For further information
Nasir Malik
Media and Communications Manager, SIF
0331-0161101
G 10/4, Islamabad