Project Name: Dangisharan RM and Shantinager RM Partnership for Smallholder Farmers and Youth Entrepreneurship based on Agriculture and Livestock Development
Introduction
The “Smallholder Farmers and Youth Entrepreneurship based on Agriculture and Livestock Development” project represents a significant collaboration between Heifer International and the Nepal Women Community Service Center (NWCSC). Heifer International, a global development organization with a profound commitment to ending hunger and poverty sustainably, has been actively engaged in transformative initiatives worldwide. In Nepal, Heifer International’s journey began in 1957, in response to the government’s request to introduce high-yield livestock breeds to native animal populations. Over the years, this collaboration between Heifer International, Dangisharan RM, Shantinagar RM and local partners like the NWCSC has evolved into a dynamic force for change.
Heifer International’s longstanding presence and expertise in sustainable development, coupled with the dedicated efforts of local organizations like the NWCSC, underscore the profound impact achievable through partnership. Together, they have set their sights on addressing key challenges faced by marginalized communities, particularly those engaged in agriculture and livestock enterprises.
Programme Goal:
To support economic growth by improving livelihoods and nutritional conditions through the development of the agriculture sector.
Programme Purpose:
Based on the value chain through quality rural financial services developing a profitable and competitive agricultural enterprise by combining agricultural business with the market.
Funding Agency: Heifer International Nepal
Programme Period: 03 March 2023 to 29 May 2027 for Dangisharan and 13 March 2024 to 14 June 2026 for Shantinagar
Project Area: Dang
Implementing Partner: Dangisharan Rural Municipality (All 7 Wards) and Shantinagar Rural Municipality (All 7 Wards)
Expected Benefits of the Programme:
- Concerned about access to finance in the agricultural supply chain.
- For the commercial development and productivity of the agricultural supply chain, financial capacity will be improved and investment will increase (about 36 Nepali rupees).
- Through effective digital financial services, the digital divide will come to the rural level.
- Increasing market access of farmers and improving business relations and cooperation between suppliers and buyers.
- Increasing the productive capacity of agricultural producers and agricultural businessmen involved in the supply chain and access to market-oriented infrastructure.
- By making the supply chain competitive and strengthened, the total income of farmers will increase by 55% and the return will increase by 125% on Labour) will be improved.
- Empowerment of agricultural women, increase in the involvement of youth and Agricultural Development Bank Ltd. And improving the permanent organizational capacity of other partner financial institutions.
Programme Activities:
– Hay Distribution Programme: Distribution of six different types of hay to the residents of Dhangisharan rural municipality and Shantinagar rural municipality.
– Foundational Training: Conducting training sessions within the core groups to establish a strong knowledge base.
– Basic Training: Delivering essential training to various groups.
– Training in Proper Animal Management: Providing training programmes to the core groups to ensure the proper management of animals.
– Goat and Buck Distribution Programme: Distribution of goats and buck to eligible beneficiaries.
– Road Improvement and Construction: Initiatives aimed at improving and constructing roads within the project area.
– Buck Model Cage Construction: Construction of model cages for buck.
– Construction and Improvement of Chicken Cages: Activities focused on the construction and enhancement of chicken cages.
– Group Management Training: Conducting training sessions to enhance group management skills among parent groups.
– Training for Farmers on Healthy Milk Production: Providing training to farmers on practices related to healthy milk production.
– Wide Participation: A total of 1924 groups participated in various training programmes.
– Gift Distribution Programme: Distribution of gifts to beneficiaries.
Programme Achievements
As the programme continues to unfold, it has achieved remarkable milestones in its mission to empower and uplift communities. To date, a total of 3,500 families have reaped the benefits of this initiative. Among these, 2,400 families have directly received support, experiencing tangible improvements in their lives. Additionally, the programme has extended its positive influence to 100 youth-benefitting families, highlighting its commitment to fostering opportunities for the younger generation. Moreover, the programme’s impact has rang out beyond its direct beneficiaries, with an additional 1,000 families indirectly benefiting from its various activities and interventions. This holistic approach to community development underscores the programme’s dedication to creating sustainable change and enhancing the well-being of numerous families in its project area.