ACORAB Nepal launches 100-day initiative under ‘HelloMausam’ campaign

Kathmandu- Association of Community Radio Broadcasters (ACORAB) Nepal has launched a 100-day nationwide initiative under its ongoing #HelloMausam campaign to strengthen community preparedness during the monsoon through trusted, localized and actionable weather and climate information.

Running until September, the initiative aims to help communities prepare for floods, landslides and other weather-related hazards by promoting information that’s simple and easy to understand and encourage informed discussions on climate risks and preparedness.

#HelloMausam campaign adopts a behavior-informed communication approach to strengthen informed decision-making and support climate-resilient actions in 14 districts across Nepal.

ACORAB has been partnering with 14 community radio stations, two from each province, to produce and disseminate localized weather and climate information using a radio-digital hybrid approach. The campaign combines radio programs with social mobilization activities to promote dialogue, shared learning and collective action on weather and climate information system.

As many as 42 community-based groups have been formed across the 14 districts, with each group comprising at least 20 members. Each group is expected to meet at least seven times during the 100-day campaign.

“The initiative aims to engage nearly 1,000 community members in weather and climate information discussion aimed at encouraging behavior-informed decision-making process. ACORAB believes participants will continue to serve as community climate champions, promoting the use of trusted weather information and supporting climate-resilient actions in their communities beyond campaign,” said Siromani Dhungana, Director at ACORAB Nepal.

The initiative aims to create opportunities for communities to serve as a shared platform to discuss weather forecasts, ask questions, share local experiences and strengthen links between communities and relevant government agencies.

“Partner radio stations are engaging with at least three community-based groups. These groups bring together local residents to discuss weather forecasts, climate risks, preparedness measures and community experiences, including indigenous knowledge and traditional practices related to weather and climate”, said Sabita Budha, a community facilitator and mentor from Sudurpashchim Province.

Nepal is among the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. More frequent floods, landslides and extreme weather events continue to threaten lives, livelihoods and infrastructure, with poor and marginalized communities facing the greatest risks.

Bhagya Rekha Thakur, a mentor and community mobilizer from Madhesh Province said, “When people receive weather information in the language they speak and in a way that reflects their local context, they are more likely to understand it, trust it and act on it,” she said.”

“The campaign also promotes stronger collaboration among meteorological agencies, disaster management authorities, media organizations and communities so that weather information reaches those who need it most and leads to timely action,” said Bishal Bhattarai, Program Manager at ACORAB.

The #HelloMausam campaign is expected to produce more than 500 radio and digital content including in local languages alongside social mobilization activities in communities across Nepal.