Despite the changing political landscape in Nepal, our NGO partner BBP-Pariwar has been active in the Ramechap district of Nepal. The ongoing “Sustainable Agriculture and Livelihoods for the Community” project has achieved continuing progress.
The overall objective of the project is to improve livelihoods, food security and resilience of rural households through ecological agriculture, women’s empowerment, and sustainable income generating activities.
Additional women’s farmer groups have been formed and training including field visits to successful enterprises has been undertaken. Home nurseries for livestock fodder, tree plantation, promotion of biofertilizers, vermicomposting and seed conservation have also been undertaken.
Women empowerment has been a component of the project by leadership training, financial record keeping instruction, and enhancing farmer’s knowledge through training on livestock management.
By the promotion of commercial vegetable farming, cultivation of high value crops and supporting livestock activities ,household income has been enhanced. Improved nutrition has been promoted through fruit plantation, kitchen gardening practices and support for bee keeping and livestock rearing.
One example of adapting to climate change and improved agricultural practices has been providing material support and education in building “High Tunnels”. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations describes the practice as a method of reducing the impact of high and low temperature fluctuations and hail storms that often affect crop yields, as well as to grow crops off season to guarantee food supply and enhance income. Efficient use of the available land and water resources along with the benefit of the crops less susceptible to insects, pests, and diseases is achieved.
The Ramechap district is geographically challenging for travel and organizing training sessions but activities were organized in accessible locations and coordinated with local leaders and group members to ensure better participation and implementation of the planned activities
Farmer group members expressed strong interest and enthusiasm toward initiatives introduced through the project. The integrated approach combining training, practical support, and group strengthening has helped build their confidence to expand agricultural production and livelihood activities.
