A high-level delegation from the European Parliament visited Sindh to witness how EU-funded GRASP initiatives are revitalising rural enterprises, empowering women, and strengthening local value chains. Led by Mr. Lukas Mandl, the delegation included Mr. Tomas Zdechovsky, Mr. Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Mr. Robert Biedroń, and Mr. Marc Jongen, joined by representatives from the EU in Pakistan, ITC, PPAF, and FAO.

In Hyderabad, the delegation met Nusrat Bibi, whose home-based venture, Fiza Desi Ghee, has grown into a formal enterprise through a PKR 0.5 million GRASP matching grant. With improved equipment, packaging, and production systems, Nusrat has increased her income, created jobs for local women, and stepped forward as a confident entrepreneur.

The group then visited S. Nizamani Enterprise in Tando Allahyar, supported by a PKR 30 million matching grant for its pioneering banana tissue culture laboratory. By producing disease-free, high-yield banana varieties to combat Panama disease, the enterprise is helping farmers safeguard crops, boost productivity, and secure livelihoods. The delegation praised this innovation for its vital role in strengthening the region’s agricultural value chain.

EU members commended the progress of GRASP-supported SMEs and the meaningful change taking place at the grassroots level. Their interactions highlighted how local innovation, combined with targeted support, can drive inclusive growth and economic resilience.

Reflecting on the visit, Mr. Lukas Mandl noted, “We were pleased to see EU funding enabling SMEs to scale up. The GRASP project creates employment, enhances food security, and builds local capacity through technology that helps prevent banana diseases.”

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