USAID and Government of Nepal Launch $21 Million Agricultural Financing Project to Enhance Food Security

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Government of Nepal have announced a new USAID Agricultural Direct Financing project, providing up to $21 million to enhance food security through a government-to-government agreement.

This initiative aligns with the U.S. Government's Global Food Security Strategy (GFSS) Nepal Country Plan for 2024-2028, aimed at improving food and nutritional security in the country. The project will bolster Nepal's agricultural development efforts, benefiting 69,000 households across 53,000 hectares in Lumbini and Sudurpaschim provinces by introducing new technologies and practices.

The GFSS Nepal Country Plan will also target 26 districts, including the Terai region and select hill districts, expanding support to Madhesh province to reach vulnerable populations. U.S. Ambassador to Nepal, Dean Thompson, highlighted the plan's focus on sustainable growth and collaboration.

Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Ramnath Adhikari, marked the launch as a significant milestone in U.S.-Nepal relations, underscoring their joint commitment to food security and sustainable development. Since 2011, U.S. food security initiatives have invested over $181 million, positively impacting over 800,000 Nepalis and significantly reducing poverty and child stunting rates. For further inquiries, contact Ms. Zehra Naqvi at the U.S. Embassy in Nepal.