The earthquake in Nepal on the 25th April, 2015 shattered the lives of millions of people destroying homes, fields and livelihoods. Sindhupalchowk district, to the north of Kathmandu, has suffered more than other areas. Statistically there have been more deaths than anywhere else, whole villages have disappeared, yet it is still not receiving much government support. The Nepal Trust will support agriculture development and the livelihood of local farming families in this area.
The 2015 earthquake destroyed many villages, water sources and livelihoods of subsistence farming communities. Many families lost not only their house and family members, but also their income from farming activities and lack resources to restart their agriculture production again. This is needed for producing own food crops, but also for family income generation. People need support towards market access, agriculture infrastructure (e.g. irrigation), improved inputs, training, etc.
The project aims to improve food security and income opportunities by revitalizing agriculture development through infrastructure development (e.g. irrigation repair), expansion of (commercialized) vegetable production (linking with markets, private sector, capacity building), livestock care (veterinary services) and appropriate technologies (e.g. green houses, tools) to increase diversified off-season production which will increase local income, but also awareness of natural disasters (DRR).
140 Farming families will become self-sufficient again due to increased economic development and recovery of their income generating activities, thus less reliant on external aid. Due to improved access to markets, productivity and skills, the project will have a long-lasting impact within the communities for sustainable agriculture production. In addition links between farmers and local suppliers, private sector and government bodies (agriculture -and livestock offices) will be strengthened.
