17th August 2025, Kathmandu
In a proactive move to mitigate the devastating impact of floods, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) recently joined forces to host a pivotal CERF Anticipatory Action Consultation Workshop.
Anticipatory action Koshi River
Held on August 13, 2025, in Saptari, the event marked a significant stride in Phase 2 of the Anticipatory Action in the Koshi River Basin initiative.
The workshop convened a diverse group of key stakeholders, including the Chief District Officer of Saptari, Mr. Bhola Dahal, local government officials, dedicated community leaders, UN representatives, and implementing partners.
The collective aim was to strengthen resilience and create a more robust support system for communities living in one of Nepal’s most flood-vulnerable regions.
Focus on Shock-Responsive Social Protection
A central theme of the consultation was the exploration of Shock-Responsive Social Protection (SRSP) mechanisms. Participants delved into SRSP guidelines and the strategic implementation of anticipatory action—a forward-thinking approach that provides aid before a disaster strikes.
The discussions highlighted the critical importance of delivering timely and effective assistance to beneficiaries, examining various modalities such as cash transfers and in-kind support to ensure flexibility and responsiveness.
The Power of Preparedness and Coordination
Chief District Officer Bhola Dahal underscored the urgency of the matter, stating, “In flood-prone areas like the Koshi River Basin, proactive measures and timely support can mean the difference between safety and disaster.
Strong coordination among all stakeholders is not just important—it is essential to protect lives and livelihoods.” His words resonated deeply with the participants, emphasizing that a united front is the most effective defense against natural calamities.
The workshop served as a powerful platform for fostering collaboration and highlighting the indispensable role of each stakeholder. By bringing together national authorities, local governments, and international partners, the event reinforced the shared commitment to reaching the most vulnerable populations.
The collective efforts aim to not only reduce the immediate impact of flooding but also to build stronger, more resilient communities capable of withstanding future shocks.
This consultation represents a crucial step forward in the ongoing mission to enhance disaster preparedness in the Koshi River Basin. Through continued collaboration and the implementation of anticipatory action strategies, the joint initiative by FAO, UNICEF, and UNFPA is setting a new standard for humanitarian response—one that prioritizes prevention and empowers communities to thrive, even in the face of adversity.
About FAO Nepal
Since Nepal joined the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) on November 21, 1951, the two have forged a strong partnership dedicated to enhancing the country’s agricultural sector and fostering rural development.
FAO plays a crucial role in supporting the Government of Nepal by providing technical expertise, strengthening institutional capacities, and assisting in the implementation of key agricultural policies. This collaboration has been instrumental in the country’s development journey, from the implementation of the Agriculture Perspective Plan (1995–2015) to the current collaboration on the ambitious 20-year visions of the Agriculture Development Strategy and the National Food and Nutrition Security Plan.
Through a wide range of initiatives, FAO supports Nepal in addressing critical priorities, including food security, sustainable farming practices, climate change adaptation, and the promotion of resilient food systems. This enduring partnership focuses on building a more sustainable and prosperous future for Nepal’s farmers and rural communities, ensuring that agricultural growth contributes to national development and improved livelihoods for all.
For more: Anticipatory action Koshi River