PESHAWAR, September 16, 2026: A delegation from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Pakistan has visited the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Environmental Protection Agency (EPA-KP) to discuss One Health and explore areas for future cooperation on environmental surveillance.
The FAO delegation was led by Dr Pawin Padungtod, One Health Team Lead, and Dr Kiyal Akmatbek, Programme Coordinator KP, along with members of the FAO team.
On behalf of the Director General EPA-KP, the delegation was received by Dr Habib Ullah Jan, One Health Focal Person at EPA-KP, and Mr Afsar Khan, Deputy Director Orakzai.
The meeting focused on strengthening the environmental pillar of the One Health approach, particularly through environmental surveillance and wastewater assessment.
Participants discussed the possible use of environmental and wastewater monitoring at veterinary clinics, slaughterhouses, dairy farms, poultry farms and other livestock-related facilities.
The role of environmental surveillance in identifying and addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), infectious disease risks and other environmental health concerns was also discussed.
The meeting highlighted the growing link between climate change and environmental health. Changing climate conditions can affect ecosystems, water resources and disease risks, making closer cooperation between environmental, animal and human health sectors increasingly important.
The FAO delegation appreciated the proposed areas of cooperation and expressed interest in working with EPA-KP on future initiatives. Potential support for capacity building, technical training and strengthening environmental surveillance systems was also discussed.
The meeting marked a step towards closer collaboration between FAO Pakistan and EPA-KP and efforts to promote an integrated approach to human, animal and environmental health in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
EPA-KP reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the environmental dimension of One Health through science-based surveillance, effective regulation, capacity building and cooperation among relevant sectors.
