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iDE has worked in Nepal since 1992. From irrigation and good-quality seeds to, more recently, rural collection centers where farmers can sell their produce, we provide simple innovations that help rural communities get out of poverty and adapt to climate change.
The US$10.5 million Anukulan program powered small scale farmers, who only grew enough to feed their families and were vulnerable to extreme weather events and food insecurity.
Around two out of three Nepalis are engaged in agriculture, mainly growing crops on small plots of land using basic farming methods. Yet many Nepalis in rural communities still don’t have enough nutritious food to eat. Poor access to high-quality seed, fertilizer, irrigation pumps (and knowledge of how to use them), and markets makes it difficult for them to earn a living. As a result, more than half a million Nepalis work outside the country, 95 percent of them male. Climate change is increasing the vulnerability of these already marginalized people.
(Photo by Bimala Colavito/iDE)
For developing world entrepreneurs to succeed they must participate in market ecosystems that are economically competitive, inclusive of all people, and resilient to shocks such as conflict or changing climates. By listening to every stakeholder—producers, suppliers, retailers and customers—we can overcome critical bottlenecks and develop lasting solutions.
Learn more about iDE’s approach to resilient market ecosystems.
iDE increases small-scale farmers’ incomes by using a market-based approach to promote manual well-drilling and household irrigation technologies. iDE collaborates with the Ethiopian government to connect farmers to agricultural extension services, technical support, and improved seed varieties. Additionally, iDE supports and encourages farmers to diversify into high-value commercial crops, livestock products, and other high-value agricultural commodities such as honey. These activities are changing Ethiopian farmers’ perception of farming, in that they begin viewing and practicing farming as a business, rather than as a way of life.
Learn more about iDE's commitment to Agriculture.
Nepal’s population is highly vulnerable to climate change effects due to their overwhelming dependence on natural resources for survival. Agriculture, forestry, and ecotourism are critical industries in Nepal.
iDE helps people in rural areas build their resilience to climate extremes through the use of water-saving and resource-smart agricultural technologies and practices.
Learn more about iDE’s commitment to Smart Technologies.
Not only is gender inequality high in Nepal, it is further complicated by discrimination based on ethnic, caste, and regional differences—Madhesi and Dalit women in the agricultural Terai Region are the most marginalized and excluded.
By focusing on women as customers and entrepreneurs, iDE strengthens their participation in rural value chains and increases their access to technology, know-how, finance, and markets.
Learn more about iDE’s commitment to Gender Equity.
In Nepal, nearly half of the children under five (an estimated 1.6 million) suffer from undernutrition.
By promoting high-value, nutritious crops, iDE empowers farmers to earn more income and provide their families and communities with a more varied diet, fueling them with the energy and mental ability they need to be successful. iDE also improves access to safe water and sanitation, keeping people healthy and able to absorb the nutrients gained from an improved diet.
Learn more about iDE’s commitment to Nutrition.
iDE seeks to improve health outcomes by providing access to safe drinking water through low-cost and affordable household water technologies and by promoting rural sanitation through iDE’s sanitation marketing approach. In both cases, iDE encourages the adoption of improved products and practices among the rural poor, while simultaneously creating both profitable and sustainable enterprises. iDE also trains sales agents to sell to rural consumers directly. These agents receive a commission on their sales, ensuring the sustainability of the model.
Learn more about iDE's commitment to WASH.
Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur
P.O.Box 2674
Kathmandu, Nepal
Phone: +977 1 590 0132 or +977 1 590 0133
Website: www.idenepal.org
E-mail: nepal@ideglobal.org
