Ms Afridi was the founder, with her sister Noorzia, of an organisation that promotes social and economic development in Khyber Agency and other semi-autonomous tribal areas that border Afghanistan. In such areas, the traditions of purdah are the norm, meaning women are expected to conceal themselves from men.

She was from a part of Khyber that only had one school but she managed to get an education, Mr Zar Afridi said. She earned a master's degree and learnt English. In 2004, she co-founded her organisation, SAWERA, or Society for Appraisal and Women Empowerment in Rural Areas.

Female NGO workers have been accused of not observing cultural norms - not wearing their veils, encouraging other women to work outside the home, and working alongside male colleagues.

''The militants are labelling the NGOs, especially where women are working, as spreading obscenities and vulgarities,'' said a tribal elder in the region, who spoke anonymously.

For colleagues of Ms Afridi, the message sent by her killers was chillingly direct:

"They don't want any women from NGOs to come to their areas and have discussions with their women, because they think we are propagating Western agendas,'' said Zainab Bibi of South Asia Partnership Pakistan, a pro-democracy group.

''Women are totally restricted there.''

Farida Afridi Fund

SAWERA, the organisation which Farida and Noorzia founded, is a Safeworld Field Partner

Farida Afridi's work with Sawera is continuing. Her sister Noorzia and family have confirmed this to Safeworld. If you would like to support her please click here

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