Pakistan’s mountaineering sector entered a new era on Saturday, 29 November, 2025, with the official launch of the Karakoram Mountain Guides Association (KMGA), the country’s first national organization created by mountaineers, for the mountaineers. The event took place at a private hotel in Skardu, bringing together hundreds of mountain professionals across the country.
The full-day gathering included senior high-altitude climbers, professional guides, and young talents from Gilgit-Baltistan and other areas of a country. The environment was energetic and hopeful, with participants expressing strong support for the creation of a unified national platform dedicated to the welfare of Pakistan’s mountaineering community, according to the press release by KMGA.
The program begun at 10:30 PKT and included open discussions, tea breaks, and lunch sessions, all designed to allow free interaction and collective decision-making. Discussions focused on the structure of the newly formed KMGA, upcoming operational plans, and persistent challenges faced by mountain professionals ranging from safety issues to professional development and international recognition.
Participants expressed their views on the need for improved training standards, comprehensive welfare mechanisms, and broader global engagement for Pakistani mountain professionals. The structure of the Association was formed inclusively, with its commitment to the regional representation and the inclusion of female members, marking a significant step toward equality in the profession, stated on the press release.
A 17-member governing body was formed, representing mountain communities from all major area of the country. This governing body then elected the Association’s first official office bearers.
Elected Office Bearers included following members
- President: Sirbaz Khan
- General Secretary: Mirza Ali
- Vice President: Saad Munawar
- Vice President: Zahid Hussain Rajput
- Vice President: Sajid Ali Sadpara
- Treasurer: Shah Daulat
With the formation of the Karakoram Mountain Guides Association, Pakistan’s mountaineering community celebrates a long-awaited achievement, an institution designed to safeguard the rights of mountain workers, and elevate the nation’s mountaineering reputation on the world stage.
