Pakistan’s Financial Sector Moves Toward Impact Financing

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Finance, in partnership with Karandaaz Pakistan and the Pakistan Banks Association (PBA), launched a two-day workshop aimed at integrating impact financing principles into Pakistan’s financial sector. The event, titled “From Value to Vision: Financing with Purpose from Pakistan’s Financial Sector,” is taking place in Islamabad and brings together key stakeholders from commercial banks, development finance institutions, and regulatory bodies.

Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, the Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, inaugurated the workshop, emphasizing the government’s dedication to innovative financial solutions. He highlighted the Prime Minister’s establishment of a Committee on Social Impact Financing, tasked with developing a strategic framework to prioritize developmental needs and align investments with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Syed Salim Raza, Chairperson of Karandaaz, expressed support for the initiative, underscoring its importance in transitioning Pakistan’s financial sector toward purpose-driven finance. He noted that the training is part of broader efforts to build institutional capacity and align with global investment standards.

Jo Moir, Director Development at BHC Islamabad, reiterated the long-term engagement with Pakistan’s financial sector and praised Karandaaz’s role as a model for inclusive finance. The workshop is led by Alex MacGillivray, Executive Director at the JIM Foundation, who is recognized for his expertise in impact measurement. MacGillivray emphasized the need to move beyond traditional credit models to achieve measurable outcomes alongside financial returns.

The workshop covers strategic intent, impact governance, and portfolio-level impact design, among other topics. Participants are engaging in interactive sessions and scenario-based exercises to translate concepts into actionable strategies. Over 40 senior professionals from Pakistan’s financial ecosystem are attending, including representatives from the State Bank of Pakistan and other leading institutions.

Muneer Kamal, CEO and Secretary General of PBA, highlighted the banking sector’s role in transitioning to a sustainable, impact-driven financial ecosystem. The collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and Karandaaz aims to strengthen sectoral readiness and align capital with national priorities.

This initiative reflects ongoing efforts by MoF, Karandaaz, and PBA to enhance capabilities in Pakistan’s financial sector and support the country’s move toward sustainable, impact-oriented finance.