Peace, Prosperity and People's Rights -

By Junaid Qaiser
Despite its considerable natural resources, a talented young population and enormous economic potential, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) has struggled to translate these advantages into better living standards. Today, the need for peace, economic opportunity and equal rights has become more urgent than ever.
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi’s recent statements on the protection of provincial resources, restoration of peace and improvement of public services have highlighted the priorities that must shape K-P’s future. His declaration that the people of the province should have the first right over its natural resources is particularly significant. It raises an important question: how can a resource-rich province ensure that its wealth translates into prosperity for the communities that own it?
The province has substantial reserves of minerals, natural gas and oil, alongside considerable hydropower potential. These resources could become a foundation for economic transformation if managed transparently and responsibly. However, natural wealth alone cannot guarantee prosperity. What matters is how resources are developed, how revenue is distributed and whether local communities receive a fair share of the benefits.
Governor Kundi’s proposal to encourage domestic and international investment through joint ventures involving Pakistani companies and local communities offers an opportunity to move in this direction. Mineral exploration and extraction could generate employment, attract technology, strengthen local businesses and increase government revenue. However, these initiatives must be supported by transparent agreements, environmental safeguards and effective oversight.
The people living in resource-rich districts should not remain disconnected from the economic benefits of development. They deserve employment opportunities, technical training, improved infrastructure and better access to education and healthcare. Local communities must be partners in economic progress rather than merely observers of activities taking place on their land.
No development agenda can succeed without a secure environment. For decades, K-P has remained on the front line of Pakistan’s struggle against terrorism. Thousands of civilians, security personnel, police officers, teachers, schoolchildren and journalists have paid an enormous price for peace. These sacrifices represent a painful chapter in the province’s history. They also demonstrate why restoring security must remain the foremost responsibility of the government and all political stakeholders.
Governor has rightly emphasised that political differences should not prevent collective efforts to establish peace. His appeal for unity deserves serious attention. Terrorism is not a problem that any single political party or institution can resolve independently. It requires coordination between federal and provincial authorities, security agencies, political leadership, religious scholars, tribal elders and local communities. The people want to live normal lives. Parents want their children to attend schools without fear, businesses want to operate without disruption, and young people want opportunities to build their futures in their own province. These are basic expectations, not extraordinary demands.
Religious scholars can also make an important contribution. Their influence within communities gives them an opportunity to challenge extremist ideologies, discourage violence and promote tolerance and social harmony. Peacebuilding must extend beyond security operations and include education, community engagement and the strengthening of public institutions.
A peaceful K-P would also unlock opportunities in tourism, agriculture, mining, trade and investment. The province’s geographical position and natural beauty offer considerable economic advantages, but these cannot be fully realised until investors and visitors feel confident about security.
Alongside security and economic development, improving healthcare must be a central part of the province’s priorities.
Kundi has called for practical measures to strengthen the healthcare sector along the lines of improvements made in Punjab and Sindh. His emphasis on modern medical facilities, professional training and international standards is welcome.
The healthcare situation in the merged districts, southern districts and remote areas requires particular attention. Many residents face difficulties accessing specialist treatment and modern diagnostic facilities. Patients should not have to travel long distances to Peshawar or other major cities for services that could be provided closer to their homes.
Investment in hospitals, medical equipment, emergency services, specialist doctors and medical research is essential. The government must also address the concerns of young doctors, including the salaries and working conditions of house officers. Telemedicine and mobile medical services could also help bridge the gap between urban and remote communities.
Education requires similar attention. Years of insecurity and economic hardship have affected educational opportunities in several districts. Rebuilding schools, improving teaching standards, expanding technical education and providing young people with marketable skills must become long-term priorities.
The province’s young population is among its greatest assets. K-P has produced talented professionals, entrepreneurs, athletes and public servants who have represented Pakistan with distinction. Its contribution to national cricket is one example of the talent that exists across the region.
However, talent cannot flourish without investment and institutional support. The government should encourage sports development, establish training facilities and create opportunities for young people to participate in national and international competitions.
The same approach is needed in technology, entrepreneurship and vocational education. Digital skills programmes, technical training centres and partnerships with private companies could help young people enter emerging industries and reduce unemployment.
Governor Kundi’s commitment to providing a stable and conducive environment for investors is therefore important. K-P has opportunities in hydropower, tourism, agriculture, minerals, information technology and manufacturing. Attracting investment in these sectors could diversify the provincial economy and reduce dependence on traditional sources of income. His commitment to welcome constructive suggestions is a positive approach. The government should create meaningful opportunities for civil society, business representatives, academics, journalists and community leaders to contribute to policymaking.