Mobilink has always been at the forefront in helping the community by reaching out to lend a helping hand. Holding true to this commitment it has recently supported the Internally Displaced Persons of Swat.
On June 5 2009, Mobilink established a Mobilink Camp at Kund, Nowshera to support 1,000 families, i.e. roughly 7,000 IDPs. Camp Establishment included provision of the following:
- Shelter
- Food
- Health and Hygiene
- Non Food items such as kitchen utensils, etc
- Water and Sanitation
- Education and Recreation
Estimated at about Rs 81 million, the project was made possible by Orascom’s continued support for this noble cause. This is the largest private sector commitment of its kind to date for IDPs relief.
In line with Mobilink’s tradition of employee volunteerism, a team of Mobilink employees was personally involved in various areas of camp management, procurement of items and other requirements.
During the two months that Mobilink Camp was operational it successfully and efficiently catered to all the needs of displaced families also providing support and counseling for those most affected by trauma.
Some key milestones from the Camp:
- Full capacity of 1,000 families, close to 6,000 persons, was reached on 30 June.
- 1,009 primary school students and 127 secondary school students were enrolled in camp schools of which 56% were girls.
- 18 births were reported
- 2,500 recycled Mobilink school bags donated.
- T20 World Cup matches aired.
- Polio immunization drive took place.
- Mobilink Foundation Torchbearers visit was conducted.
Subsequent to the return of families we have ensured that Kund Park returns to its original condition and that facilities that were build on site are removed and grounds leveled. All remaining educational and health material have also been donated to relevant agencies in the area.
The camp closed down on August 13 2009 following the return of IDPs to Swat as required by the Government.
Support for IDPs through the Mobilink Camp is in addition to delivery of relief items by Mobilink to families residing in hujras, schools and dispensaries of Mardan and Swabi including far-flung villages bordering Buner. Beginning in May, the Mobilink family has united in its efforts and donated approx. Rs. 3, 500, 000 which have allowed it to provide over 2,400 families (approx. 15,600 persons) essential relief goods.
