Promoting climate-resilient economic growth in Western Nepal

Context

While Nepal is the fourth most vulnerable country to the impacts of climate change, its potential for economic development is closely linked to its capacity to adapt to such impacts. 66 per cent of the Nepali labour force work in agriculture while only generating 27 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). People working in agriculture in Western Nepal are amongst the poorest. In Karnali Province the average yearly income stands below 200 Euros. In a newly federalised state, municipalities play an important role in shaping the future. They need to work closely with knowledge and research organisations and value chain actors.

Objective

Climate resilient, green local economic growth of Sudurpaschim and Karnali provinces is promoted.

Approach

The project supports Nepal to improve framework conditions for inclusive local economic development and to adapt agricultural practices to climate change. This is to improve the incomes of marginalised households. Socially disadvantaged groups and women in particular should benefit from greater participation in value chains.

The project focuses on four fields of action:

1. Supporting municipalities to shape climate smart agricultural development.  
2. Further developing market-oriented and location-appropriate innovations.
3. Adopting sustainable approaches to value-chain development identified through action research.
4. Disseminating instruments and best practices to a wider group of stakeholders.  

The project is working on 19 municipalities of Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces until December 2024.

Last update: February 2024