KOICA and MoFAGA Sign $8 Million Agreement for Inclusive Rural Development in Bardiya District

The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration (MoFAGA) have signed a Record of Discussion (RoD) for the “Inclusive Rural Development Project in Bardiya District (IRDP)” in Nepal. T

The agreement was formalized yesterday by KOICA's Country Director Mooheon Kong and MoFAGA Joint Secretary Kali Prasad Parajuli. The Korean government, through KOICA, has allocated USD 8 million for the project, which will be implemented in eight municipalities of Bardiya district. The main objective of the project is to enhance agricultural production, upgrade value chains, and promote ecotourism to foster sustainable and resilient livelihoods in the area.

According to a press statement from KOICA, the project will be implemented through Locally Initiated Projects (LIPs), tailored to the specific needs of Bardiya’s communities. This approach will empower local residents to manage and execute projects that address their unique challenges. MoFAGA Joint Secretary Parajuli highlighted the importance of improving agricultural productivity to uplift rural communities and expressed gratitude to the Korean government for its ongoing support, which strengthens the bilateral relationship between Nepal and Korea.

KOICA Country Director Kong noted that the Bardiya project would benefit from the experience gained in the successful implementation of a similar initiative in Nawalparasi. This agreement also marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Nepal and Korea. Since 1991, the Korean government, through KOICA, has provided over USD 200 million in aid to Nepal, supporting various sectors including health, education, and rural development. This continued assistance underscores the strong partnership and commitment to Nepal’s development goals.