14th January 2024, Kathmandu
“FAO and ICIMOD Five-Year Partnership for Sustainable Mountain Development and Launch Global Health Security Programme in Nepal”.
In a significant step towards promoting sustainable mountain development in Nepal, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Director-General, QU Dongyu, attended a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony with the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD).
The five-year collaborative framework addresses the challenges mountain communities and vulnerable populations face.
Key highlights of the MoU:
Focus Areas: The agreement emphasizes sustainable and inclusive agriculture, food and nutrition security, climate change adaptation, and capacity building for local communities, particularly women, youth, and vulnerable groups.
Joint Initiatives: Both FAO and ICIMOD commit to achieving these goals through joint activities, projects, and knowledge sharing, with the ultimate aim of improving the livelihoods and well-being of mountain communities in Nepal and Bhutan.
Regional Impact: ICIMOD, serving eight regional member countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan, is pivotal in fostering partnerships for a better future in the HKH region.
Director-General’s Statement:
“As we navigate the intricate landscapes of challenges faced by mountain communities and vulnerable populations, FAO stands committed to forging a robust partnership with ICIMOD. Together, we cultivate resilience, sow the seeds of sustainable development, and contribute to agrifood systems transformation,” stated Director-General QU Dongyu during the signing ceremony.
Global Health Security Programme Launch:
The Director-General’s three-day visit to Nepal also included visiting the National Agriculture Genetic Resource Centre (NAGRC) and the Central Veterinary Laboratory (CVL). During this visit, he attended the launch event of the Global Health Security Programme (Animal Health Component).
Funded by USAID, the Global Health Security Programme (GHSP) focuses on strengthening Nepal’s health systems to address prioritized zoonotic diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) through an inclusive One Health approach.
FAO’s role in the project includes strengthening animal health systems and supporting the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, and Provincial Livestock Ministries to combat zoonotic diseases and AMR.
The initiative also aims to involve the private sector and small and medium-holder commercial farmers in enhancing biosecurity measures and promoting the rational use of antimicrobials.
Implementation Period: Launched in October 2023, the project is set to run until September 2027.
This collaborative effort signifies a crucial step towards ensuring the resilience and well-being of mountain communities while addressing pressing global health challenges.
