On 11 December 2015, ICIMOD celebrated International Mountain Day in Gilgit in collaboration with the Government of Gilgit Baltistan,Karakorum International University, Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP),WWF-Gilgit Baltistan, and the Serena Hotel. The programme aimed to raise awareness among the general public of the importance of mountain ecosystems and value chain development and of emerging vulnerabilities for coordinated efforts to improve local livelihoods and create opportunities for women’s empowerment in the communities of Gilgit Baltistan.

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The event was attended by about 200 participants including government officials, non-government organizations, educational institutions, and local communities. Mr Khadim Hussain Saleem, Secretary of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Gilgit Baltistan, and Mr Sajjad Haider, Secretary of Forest, Wildlife and Environment, Gilgit Baltistan, were guests of honour. The activities included a community panel discussion, a tableau, and an exhibition by various organizations.

During the panel discussion, the panellists from community organizations shared the challenges and opportunities in the value chain development of mountain products. Experts from WWF, AKRSP, and the United Nations Development Programme talked about the potential for the value chain development of mountain products to improve local livelihoods. Dr Abdul Wahid Jasra shared a message from Dr David Molden, Director General of ICIMOD, and extended his gratitude to all of the partners and community members who made the event possible. The programme ended with the distribution of a shield to partners of the event and the students who performed the tableau on the theme of IMD 2015.

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