KARACHI – First Lady and Member of the National Assembly, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, underscored the urgent need for climate-resilient housing, stating that millions of families across the region are currently grappling with the dual pressures of environmental disasters and social challenges. Addressing the Asia-Pacific Shelter and Settlements Forum 2026, she highlighted that the right to housing is a fundamental human right and remains a cornerstone of the Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) “Roti, Kapra, aur Makaan” manifesto.
She emphasized that secure housing has a profound impact on women and children. By providing safe homes and financial inclusion, the benefits extend far beyond the household, empowering women in society. “The lack of secure housing is not just a material issue; it is a loss of dignity and opportunity,” she remarked, adding that a home is the foundation for health, education, and stability. Noting that the Asia-Pacific is one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions, she pointed out that floods, storms, and extreme heat are displacing communities at an alarming rate.
The Sindh Model: A Global Example
Aseefa Bhutto presented the Sindh Peoples Housing for Flood Affectees (SPHFA) program as a global benchmark for recovery. Following the 2022 floods, this initiative has become the world’s largest project of its kind, aiming to build 2.1 million climate-resilient houses. This project directly benefits over 15 million people, and by registering these homes and lands in the names of women, the government is strengthening their dignity, security, and financial independence.
Call to Action
The First Lady called upon governments, civil society, and the private sector to move beyond dialogue and toward concrete action. She urged the adoption of affordable, local, and climate-resilient solutions that specifically target the most vulnerable populations. She concluded by stating that the success of such forums is not measured by statements, but by the tangible improvement in lives on the ground, envisioning a future where every child is safe and every woman lives with dignity.
