Pakistan has earmarked $US750 million to create jobs and alleviate poverty in its border regions with Afghanistan.
Unemployment there is more than 50% and an estimated 70% of men are illiterate.
Now the government aims to provide women with funds for food, healthcare and training in the tribal regions, through the Benazir Income Support Programme.
Despite women's marginal position in tribal society, Radio Australia reports that cash welfare payments can only be accessed by the female head of a household.
