WASHINGTON, Jan 16: The American government has hired a private firm for monitoring US-funded projects in Pakistan, particularly in the tribal areas.

The United States is giving $750 million to Pakistan to help develop its remote tribal region.

The US Agency for International Development is responsible for the disbursement of this fund. The agency has now signed a $43 million contract with a private company — Development Alternatives, Incorporated — for monitoring US-funded projects.

The company will help the Pakistani government and non-governmental organisations plan, implement and monitor a wide range of development programmes.

The US government was forced to hire a monitoring agency for its projects in Pakistan following widespread complaints that the funds given to Pakistan were not used for the projects they were meant for. Key US congressional panels have also backed these complaints.

A USAID statement said $750 million set aside for the tribal areas will be allocated over five years. The projects include efforts to strengthen livelihoods, expand economic opportunities and improve education and healthcare.