Kathmandu- United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Nepal held an event today to shed light on their their long term initiatives and projects on health, education, economic growth, and environment and governance sectors in Nepal’s development.
The diplomatic relationship between the United States and Nepal has flourished for nearly eight decades, with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) playing a crucial role for over 63 years. USAID has been instrumental in supporting Nepal’s health, education, economic development, agriculture, and disaster reduction initiatives, significantly contributing to the country’s prosperity through grant assistance from the American people.
In 2023 alone, USAID directly impacted the lives of over one million women through various programs focused on health, education, and economic growth, according to USAID Nepal officials. Additionally, around 5 million women benefited indirectly from these initiatives. Since 2000, USAID has provided more than $1.35 billion (over NPR 196 billion) to support Nepal’s development across multiple sectors, including health, education, infrastructure, economic growth, and women’s empowerment.
USAID recently concluded the “USAIDS yatra,” an initiative aimed at showcasing its contributions to Nepal’s development. This journey, which took place from July 5 to July 15, 2024, began in Banganaga, Kapilvastu, and included cultural events in various locations such as Lamahi in Dang, Kohalpur and Nepalgunj in Banke, as well as Kirtipur and Lalitpur.
The events attracted significant local participation and received positive media coverage across multiple platforms, reaching an estimated 2 million people directly and 5 million indirectly. The initiative was broadcast for 14 days across 62 FM stations in Kathmandu, Lumbini, Karnali, and Sudurpashchim provinces, with local language broadcasts tailored for Karnali FM stations.
USAID Nepali Acting Director Beth Hogan said that the agency has planned to provide 40 percent of the budget to the private sector. In terms of inclusiveness, she shared that USAID will also include staff from LGBTQ communities and the local speakers. She concludes that the USAID will include nine people from the local communities in their team to work more efficiently.
Historically, USAID has been pivotal in several key developments in Nepal, including the construction of the country’s first highway in 1955 and the establishment of the first nursing training school in Kathmandu in 1956. USAID also facilitated the creation of Nepal’s first modern telephone exchange and radio network in 1959. Furthermore, the agency has significantly contributed to malaria eradication in the southern Terai region and played an essential role in fostering peace and democracy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, USAID provided vaccines, essential supplies, and technical assistance, reinforcing its commitment to Nepal’s development. USAID’s support has transformed previously uninhabitable lands into arable fields, doubled literacy rates and life expectancy, and significantly reduced child mortality rates.