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Kathmandu, April 4
The Governments of Japan and Nepal, along with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), have launched a comprehensive project to bolster Nepal’s maternal and newborn health services in the face of climate change and natural disasters. Titled “Strengthening Maternal and Newborn Health Resilience in Nepal’s Climate-Vulnerable Districts,” the initiative is a testament to the continued commitment of the international community to support Nepal’s development and climate resilience efforts.
The project, which will run for 12 months, focuses on improving the health infrastructure and healthcare capacity in Jajarkot and Rautahat districts, two of Nepal’s most vulnerable regions. Key interventions include the renovation of 10 maternal health facilities, equipping them with solar power, energy-efficient medical equipment, and upgraded water and waste management systems. Additionally, healthcare workers will receive specialized training to deliver quality maternal care, including emergency obstetric and newborn care, in crisis situations.
A total of 48,000 women and newborns are expected to directly benefit from this project each year, gaining access to robust maternal health services that can withstand the shocks of climate change and natural disasters. The project also aims to enhance the capacity of healthcare workers to respond to emergencies and disasters, ensuring that maternal and newborn health services are protected and delivered in the most affected areas.
“This partnership is a shining example of international cooperation in action,” said Young Hong, UNFPA Representative for Nepal. “Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of women and girls in Nepal, and ensure that they have access to quality healthcare services that are resilient to the impacts of climate change.”
“As Nepal continues to face the challenges of climate change, Japan is proud to support Nepal’s efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable health system,” said Maeda Toru, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal. “This project is a testament to our commitment to supporting Nepal’s development and climate resilience efforts.”
“This project will not only contribute to reducing maternal mortality but will also advance Nepal’s progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action),” said Dr. Bikash Devkota, Secretary, Ministry of Health and Population. “We are grateful to the Government of Japan and UNFPA for their continued support and partnership in strengthening Nepal’s health system.”
This project is a significant step forward in implementing Nepal’s Climate Change Health Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan, which prioritizes the protection of maternal and newborn health services in the face of climate change. By strengthening the physical capacity of health facilities and enhancing healthcare worker capacity, this project will make a meaningful difference in the lives of women and girls in Nepal and contribute to a more climate-resilient health system.