Joint project transforms lives of refugee and host communities in Nepal's Koshi Province

"A Systemic Approach to Strengthen Refugee and Host Community Livelihoods in Nepal" project, funded by UNHCR and implemented by ILO enables refugees to transition from dependence to self-sufficiency through market-driven solutions.

KATHMANDU — The lives of Bhutanese refugees and host communities in Koshi Province have improved thanks to a vegetable farming project that is helping them support themselves and become more self-reliant. The project provides advice, training, subsidized farming materials and access to markets, all of which have led to increased profits and income for those involved.

Numan Özcan, Country Director for the International Labour Organization (ILO), and Monique Sokhan, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Representative visited refugee settlements in Koshi Province on 17-18 December 2024, to assess the impact of their joint project and meet with communities and local authorities. They were joined by Dr Bijaya Bajracharya, the Country Director of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) in Nepal, whose organization works in partnership with UNHCR, to improve refugee lives in Nepal. Dr Bajracharya showcased LWF’s impactful livelihood interventions during the visit.

The group visited areas in Beldangi (Damak, Jhapa District) and Pathari Sanischare (Morang District), to see how transformative livelihood initiatives can empower and impact the lives of refugees and their host communities.

Since 2023, 160 farmers—68 refugees and 82 from host communities—have participated in a vegetable farming project, implemented by the Mansarowar Agriculture Cooperative. The farmers have benefitted from subsidized access to quality seeds and bio-fertilizers, access to cultivable land and essential farming equipment, commercial farming training and advisory services and assured buy-back guarantees for produce.

"Bhutanese refugee farmers have earned substantial profits through vegetable farming, particularly in cucumber, spinach, and potato. This success has positively impacted the mental well-being of the Bhutanese refugees and encouraged others to engage in agriculture as well" said Sancha Hang Subba, Secretary, Beldangi SMC and vegetable farmer.

"Through innovative approaches and collaboration, we are fostering sustainable livelihoods that empower individuals and strengthen refugee and host communities," said Numan Özcan, ILO Country Director for Nepal.

"I am thrilled to see the positive impact livelihood projects have on refugees and the local economy.  This is thanks to refugees’ hard work, determination and the collaborative efforts of local authorities and all partners involved.  We will continue to support refugees in achieving self-reliance " added Monique Sokhan, UNHCR Representative for Nepal.

The vegetable project follows the Approach to Inclusive Market Systems (AIMS), first developed in 2013 by ILO and UNHCR, which applies the proven Making Markets Work for the Poor framework. By identifying viable market opportunities, AIMS equips refugees with skills, resources, and access to market systems.

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For more information, please contact:

Deep Rana

National Project Coordinator

ILO Country Office for Nepal

Email: [email protected]

Roshan Sharma Nepal

Associate External Relations Officer

UNHCR Nepal

Email: [email protected]

About ILO:

The International Labour Organization (ILO) is a United Nations agency that promotes decent work and economic opportunities worldwide.

About UNHCR:

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) works to protect and support refugees, helping them rebuild their lives and achieve self-reliance.