Murad Shah hosts farewell ceremony for WB Country Director Najy Benhassine

KARACHI (June 17): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali hosted a grand farewell ceremony at the CM House in to honor World Bank’s outgoing Country Director for Pakistan, Mr. Najy Benhassine, who is concluding his impactful five-year tenure.

The event was attended by provincial ministers, advisors, special assistants, the Chief Secretary, secretaries of relevant departments, foreign diplomats, and prominent industrialists.

Dressed in traditional Pakistani attire, shalwar kameez with a black waistcoat, Mr. Benhassine was praised for his exemplary leadership and dedication, especially during the challenging times of the 2022 devastating floods in Sindh.

A documentary showcasing ongoing projects under the World Bank–Sindh government partnership was screened during the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah described the occasion as a joyous and memorable moment, celebrating not only the farewell of a distinguished personality but also the fruitful partnership under Mr. Benhassin’s leadership. He highlighted the significant progress made through World Bank collaboration, which has benefited millions of Sindh’s residents.

The CM lauded Mr. Benhassin’s services, especially his role during the 2022 floods where his timely and effective strategies provided critical support to affected communities. He acknowledged the special attention and guidance from Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari that ensured successful rehabilitation of flood victims.

Sindh’s portfolio with the World Bank has expanded to $3.96 billion, with investments spanning climate resilience, social protection, infrastructure restoration, and digital innovation, Murad Shah disclosed.

The CM emphasised landmark projects such as the Sindh Flood Emergency Housing Reconstruction Project, the world’s largest housing initiative, benefiting over 15 million people through the construction of 2.1 million homes.

Other transformative projects include the Karachi Transformation Strategy (KTS), Karachi Neighborhood Improvement Project, Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project, and Karachi Mobility Project, all aimed at enhancing life in Pakistan’s economic hub, the CM said.

Mr. Murad Ali Shah also noted the approval of the World Bank’s Country Partnership Framework 2026-2035, with anticipated assistance of $20 billion for Pakistan, focusing on stunting reduction, education, environmental improvement, and comprehensive investments aligned with Sindh’s priorities.

The CM expressed deep gratitude for Mr. Benhassine’s contributions, stating that he leaves behind a legacy of strong systems, empowered communities, and enduring hope that will resonate in Sindh’s development journey for years to come.

In his farewell speech, Mr. Najy Binhassine praised the Sindh government’s commitment and the personal involvement of Sindh CM Murad Shah, whose hands-on supervision ensured the success of World Bank projects in the province.

He acknowledged the CM’s relentless efforts during the post-flood recovery, which accelerated rehabilitation efforts significantly.

Mr. Binhassine expressed his appreciation for the cooperation and performance of the Sindh team and conveyed optimism that the partnership will continue to flourish, contributing to the province’s sustainable development.

This ceremony marked a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the World Bank and Sindh, celebrating achievements and setting the stage for future progress under new leadership.