SAHAMATI is implementing the Empowering Rural Communities in Nepal (ERCN) Project across the Sindhupalchowk, Kavre, and Tanahu districts. This initiative focuses on enhancing the nutritional and health status of rural communities by empowering non-commercial and subsistence farmers. The project addresses low agricultural productivity and weak marketing capabilities to create a pathway for sustainable development.
Key Goals and Objectives
Improving Agricultural Productivity
Transfer modern agricultural skills to local farmers to promote the cultivation of indigenous and neglected crops like black grams and Niger oilseed.Strengthening Market Linkages
Facilitate connections between farmers, input suppliers, and cooperatively operated collection centers to improve access to quality resources.Enhancing Financial Access
Enable sustainable entrepreneurship by linking farmers with local cooperatives and strengthening their financial literacy and account management skills.
Agricultural Interventions
To boost agricultural productivity, the ERCN Project:
- Conducts demonstration farming on crops such as black grams and Niger oilseed.
- Provides training on goat husbandry and organizes farm days and farmers’ days.
- Facilitates business linkages with value chain actors, ensuring access to quality inputs and extension services.
Financial Empowerment and Capacity Building
The project emphasizes financial sustainability for farmers by:
- Organizing farmers into groups and linking them to local cooperatives.
- Conducting capacity-building activities such as financial literacy and revolving fund management.
- Providing support for business plans, skills training, and start-ups to help group members with limited capital increase their income.
Commercial Farming Opportunities
The project aims to enable farmers to:
- Produce and sell commercial crops, including vegetables, lentils, black grams, and Niger seeds.
- Enhance their income by accessing new market opportunities.
Community Engagement and Monitoring
To ensure the sustainability of its interventions, the ERCN Project:
- Forms local committees and community development committees to support and monitor activities.
- Encourages active participation from community members in planning and execution.
Conclusion
The Empowering Rural Communities in Nepal Project is a transformative initiative designed to improve livelihoods by integrating modern agricultural practices, enhancing financial access, and fostering market linkages. By equipping farmers with the necessary skills, resources, and networks, this project sets a foundation for sustainable rural development and improved quality of life.
