active· Livelihoods· Health

Improved food security, sustainable livelihoods and empowerment of women

Bajhang is one of the least developed districts of Nepal where almost 50 % of people live below poverty line and suffer from food insecurity. Agricultural productivity is low due to lack of technical knowledge and unavailability of quality inputs and irrigation facilities. There are natural resources available but due to limited knowhow and poor market access people are not able to use them for livelihood improvement purpose. Masta Rural Municipality has patriarchal social structures where women are suffering from gender discrimination and violence and are excluded from decision-making. There are also other marginalized groups such as Dalits and persons with disabilities who are suffering from multiple discrimination and are excluded from decision making process both at home and other public domain. So, efforts are needed to provide women with equal rights and empowerment opportunities for their greater participation and access to resources. The objective of this project is to uplift the livelihoods and food security of the socially and economically marginalized communities of Masta Rural Municipality through improved organic farming practices, value addition and better access to markets, empower women through capacity development and leadership trainings and build more resilient communities through sustainable animal husbandry and developing NTFP-based and other new livelihood opportunities. The project will also promote better hygiene practices and food diversification for improved health and nutrition of the target communities. The project implemented by Sahara Nepal and supported by Swallows supports Finland's development objectives by increasing food security and promoting sustainable use of natural resources and enhancing the rights and status of women and girls. The project will strengthen local partner organization's capacity and role in community capacity building and establishing linkages between communities and local government. The project is expected to benefit directly about 700 poor households. More than half of the direct beneficiaries will be women.