District Forum in Umerkot: A Collective Step Toward Social Justice and Good Governance
Umerkot: District Forum established under the Awaz II Project, implemented by AWARE with the support of FCDO and CARE International
Umerkot (September 18, 2025). District Forum established at Umerkot to address the early and forced marriages, violence against women, and the growing culture of intolerance. In an atmosphere charged with commitment and dialogue, Umerkot witnessed the establishment of a District Forum under the Awaz II Project, implemented by AWARE with the support of FCDO and CARE International Pakistan.
The consultation, held at the District Council Hall, brought together a cross-section of voices—government officials, civil society actors, advocates, and community representatives—united by one purpose: to confront the pressing social issues of the district and to strengthen good governance.
The forum opened with a powerful message from Mian Peer Muhammad Walhari, Vice Chairman of the District Council, who underscored the need for closer cooperation between NGOs and local government. “Only through partnership,” he remarked, “can we address our community’s most urgent challenges.” His words set the tone for a day of dialogue rooted in solidarity and shared responsibility.
Mumtaz Bhatti, Deputy Director of Child Protection, noted that Umerkot faces particularly severe challenges around child rights and protection. The Awaz II Project, he emphasized, offers the district a timely opportunity to unite efforts and design meaningful solutions. Echoing this, Mushtaq Ali Kumbhar, PRO DC, acknowledged the vital contributions of civil society organizations in driving social progress, while Naeem Khaskheli of CARE International praised the collective energy of stakeholders dedicated to Umerkot’s development.
The forum also heard from Zarina Rashid, In-charge of the Women Protection Cell, and Bharat Kumar of the Special Education Department, who both highlighted the urgent need to safeguard vulnerable groups. Their interventions served as a reminder that women, children, and marginalized communities often bear the heaviest burdens of inequality and require the strongest protections.
By the end of the consultation, a diverse group of committed individuals—including Muhammad Bux Kumbhar, Karim Bux Shaikh, AB Arisar, Advocate Bhagwandas, Advocate Gulab, and Advocate Islamudin Rahimoo—volunteered their services to the newly formed District Forum. Civil society members such as Farheen Magsi, Naeem, Azra Qambrani, and Abid Hussain further emphasized the forum’s role in addressing not only traditional social issues but also emerging challenges linked to climate change, population pressures, and cyber insecurity.
Discussions centered on early and forced marriages, violence against women, and the growing culture of intolerance. Participants collectively agreed that protecting women and children requires a united front—legal, social, and moral. They further recognized that youth empowerment depends on reducing intolerance through awareness and solidarity.
The event concluded with a resounding commitment: the District Forum would not be a mere platform for discussion. Instead, it would serve as an engine for action, transforming recommendations into tangible steps that pave the way for a safer, more equal, and more peaceful Umerkot.
