Nepal, one of the poorest countries in the world, has a population that is highly tied to the agriculture sector, which makes up 50% of its GDP and employs 72% of its population. In addition to climate-related challenges, Nepal also faces vast amounts of inequality, fuelled especially by the caste system. Baseline studies measure caste disparity in the Jagaran region at 73%, with the Dalit group facing particular marginalisation. Among the major issues facing the Dalit population are landlessness, lack of access to arable land, food insecurity, and lack of any physical assets.

Moreover, the effects of marginalisation are most felt by women and adolescent girls in these communities. In Jagaran, 72% of women face domestic violence, 31% experience food restriction, 32% are included in polygamy, 39% have a dowry, and 40% have been alleged of witchcraft. 

By focusing on capacity building for women and adolescent girls, this project seeks to provide this marginalised population with essential skills to improve their day-to-day lives. Among the trainings provided are:

• Climate change adaptation
• Sustainable and improved livestock farming and agriculture
• Business plan development
• Marketing and sales
• Women's leadership development

In cooperation with partners AEIN Luxembourg and the Women Rehabilitation Center, these trainings, funded by the Mangrove Foundation, will reach over 8.000 vulnerable people.