FAO Distributes 100,000 Low-Delta Fodder & Fruit Plants in Balochistan for Spring Plantation, Commemorating International Day of Forests 2025
Quetta, – On the International Day of Forests 2025, FAO launched the Spring Tree Plantation Campaign, through which 100,000 fruit and fodder tree saplings were distributed across 30 watersheds in 16 districts of Balochistan, reinforcing efforts toward sustainable agriculture and climate resilience.
This large-scale distribution, organized under the European Union (EU)-funded Revival of Balochistan Water Resources Programme (RBWRP), supports ongoing efforts to restore ecological balance, strengthen sustainable livelihoods, and promote climate-resilient agroforestry systems in the province’s arid and water-stressed landscapes.
The plants species were carefully selected based on their ecological value and potential to enhance local incomes. Fruit trees including three olive varieties—Arbequina, Bari-2, and Koroneiki—as well as high value Grapes were distributed to promote orchard development, diversify income streams, and improve food security for rural households.
“The free distribution of plants is an extension of our broader strategy under the RBWRP to restore ecosystems, recharge watersheds, and enhance water productivity,” said Mr. Waleed Mahdi, International Programme Coordinator and Head of Office, FAO Balochistan. “This integrated approach strengthens the foundation for sustainable livelihoods and builds long-term climate resilience across Balochistan’s most water-stressed landscapes. Fruit and fodder trees are central to this vision—they support household income while contributing to ecological regeneration.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Abdul Fateh Bhanger, Secretary Forest and Wildlife Balochistan, added: “Our collaboration with FAO exemplifies how strong institutional partnerships can accelerate sustainable development. These lants symbolize hope, resilience, and a greener future for communities across Balochistan.”
The spring plantation drive was launched by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Loralai, Dr Ehsanullah Kakar and Dr Faizul Bari, NRM Advisor FAO during the distribution ceremony of the olive plants at Loralai University. Speaking at the occasion, Dr Faizul Bari told the beneficiaries farmers about the significance of the olive tree planting in the context of the climate change. Dr Ehsanullah Kakar greatly appreciated FAO’s efforts in providing the plants to the farmers.
The week-long tree distribution campaign reached priority districts across Balochistan. A total of 100,000 saplings were distributed in Quetta, Pishin, Killa Abdullah, Mastung, Kalat, Kharan, Washuk, Kohlu, Loralai, Harnai, Dukki, Khuzdar, Surab, Panjgur, Kech, and Awaran.
Community-level planting efforts are expected to significantly contribute to watershed regeneration, land productivity, and improved resilience for farming households in these areas besides producing olive oil for community income generation and meeting the demand of food which aligns with the theme of International Day of Forests 2025 – Forest and Food.
This initiative aligns with FAO’s broader commitment to climate-smart agriculture and integrated water resources restoration across Balochistan.