23rd January 2024, Kathmandu
Nepal’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has officially inaugurated its first regional office in Janakpur, Madhesh Province. This strategic move aims to decentralize FAO’s programs, foster closer collaboration with regional stakeholders, and enhance regional food security, inclusive development, and resilience.
FAO’s New Office in Janakpur
The inauguration ceremony was jointly led by Ken Shimizu, the FAO Representative for Bhutan and Nepal, and Janardan Singh Kshetri, Minister of Land Management, Agriculture, and Cooperatives (MoLMAC) of Madhesh Province. Distinguished attendees included Binay Kumar Karn, Secretary of MoLMAC, representatives from the Government of Nepal, local elected officials, UN partners, and other stakeholders.
Key Objectives of the New FAO Regional Office
The establishment of this office aligns with FAO’s mission to:
Promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Strengthen food security initiatives at the provincial level.
Foster inclusive development and resilience against climate and socioeconomic challenges.
Enhance collaboration with local governments and community stakeholders.
By decentralizing operations, FAO aims to address region-specific agricultural challenges more effectively and tailor solutions to meet the unique needs of Madhesh Province.
Focus on Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development
During the inauguration, discussions revolved around opportunities to promote sustainable agriculture and rural development in Madhesh Province. Participants explored innovative approaches to achieve long-term agricultural growth, emphasizing FAO’s commitment to working alongside local governments and communities.
Ken Shimizu expressed gratitude to the Government of Nepal, MoLMAC, and local stakeholders, stating:
“The Janakpur office marks a significant step towards strengthening partnerships for sustainable agriculture and food security. Together, we aim to create a resilient and inclusive agricultural system in Madhesh Province.”
Collaborative Approach for Development
The FAO regional office is expected to serve as a hub for agricultural innovation and collaboration. By partnering with provincial and local governments, as well as international and community-based organizations, FAO will focus on:
Implementing projects to boost crop productivity and livelihoods.
Supporting climate-resilient agricultural practices.
Empowering marginalized communities, particularly women and smallholder farmers.
Madhesh Province: A Strategic Location for Agricultural Development
Madhesh Province, known for its fertile land and agricultural potential, plays a crucial role in Nepal’s food production. However, challenges such as climate change, water management, and market access persist. The presence of FAO’s regional office in Janakpur is expected to address these issues by leveraging global expertise and localized solutions.
Conclusion
The establishment of FAO Nepal’s first regional office in Janakpur signifies a transformative step towards achieving sustainable agricultural development and food security in Madhesh Province. With the active participation of government agencies, UN partners, and local communities, this initiative aims to build a resilient and inclusive agricultural ecosystem, fostering long-term growth and prosperity.
For more: FAO’s New Office in Janakpur