EVALUATING VALUE FOR MONEY (VFM) IN FISH FARMING: A CASE STUDY OF MANSEHRA DISTRICT, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA, PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study evaluates the Value for Money (VfM) of fish farming in District Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, under WWF’s “Water Resource Accountability in Pakistan” (WRAP) project, supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). WRAP aims to scale up Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for improved water resource management and climate resilience. The findings demonstrate that fish farming offers strong financial efficiency and effectiveness, with cost-effective interventions and sustainable practices contributing to water security and community resilience. The study highlights the fisheries sector as a vital sub-sector of agriculture in Pakistan, offering significant economic and food security benefits. It also underscores the growth potential of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's diverse aquatic ecosystem. This research provides a framework for policymakers and development partners to implement integrated VfM assessment systems, enabling evidence-based investment decisions and enhancing the impact of climate-related interventions.