Coca-Cola Foundation backs new initiative to boost Nepal’s farming
The official inauguration ceremony of this plantation program took place on Feb 9, 2025.
KATHMANDU: With the support from The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF), Sahara Nepal and Varaha ClimateAg Pvt Ltd. are launching a tree plantation program aimed at helping Nepal’s agricultural landscape and promote climate resilience.
This initiative, which is part of a broader project called “Strengthening Regenerative Horticulture and Agroforestry in Nepal,” seeks to address key agricultural challenges while focusing on improving land productivity and supporting local farming communities.
The official inauguration ceremony of this plantation program took place on Feb 9, 2025, in Kathmandu, with the Rt. Honorable Speaker of the House of Representatives Devraj Ghimire; Honorable Minister of Home Affairs, Ramesh Lekhak; Honorable Minister of Forest and Environment, Ain Bahadur Shahi along with other key stakeholders, environmental experts and representatives from partner organizations.
Nepal’s agricultural sector faces pressure from climate change, land degradation, and declining productivity. Climate change compounds these challenges, with unpredictable rainfall, water scarcity, and extreme weather events. To address these challenges, the project presents a comprehensive approach aimed at supporting the agricultural sector. By promoting horticulture and agroforestry initiatives, the project seeks to improve yields and increase farmers’ incomes.
The program will provide technical training in horticulture practices, helping farmers improve soil health, manage water more effectively, and diversify their crops-productivity.
“At the Coca-Cola Foundation, we believe in investing in projects that create lasting environmental and economic impact. This project is a step toward helping transform Nepal’s agricultural sector by equipping farmers with the tools and knowledge to help improve their productivity, adapt to climate challenges, and create new income opportunities. said Carlos Pagoaga, President of The Coca-Cola Foundation.
The Plantation Program will be initiated across 11 districts, including Kanchanpur, Kailali, Jhapa, Morang, Sunsari, Udayapur, Saptari, Siraha, Sarlahi, Mahottari, and Parsa. In the second phase, Sahara Nepal will extend the program to Jumla and Kalikot districts of Karnali Province.
The initiative aims to benefit thousands of farm households due to enhanced fruit production, diversified crops, soil health restoration, water conservation, disease control measures and additional income opportunity.
Additionally, the project integrates an innovative carbon credit system, allowing farmers to earn additional income while contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.
Recognizing the significance of this Plantation Program for Nepal’s agricultural future, Honorable Minister of Forest and Environment, Ain Bahadur Shahi stated that, “This initiative plays a crucial role in addressing Nepal’s agricultural and environmental challenges. By adopting regenerative plantation techniques, we are not only securing better livelihoods for farmers but also ensuring Nepal’s commitment to sustainable land use and climate action.”
Mr. Bharat Kumar Giri, Chairperson of Sahara Nepal stated, “Through this initiative, we are empowering farmers with sustainable agricultural practices that enhance productivity while ensuring environmental conservation.”
Likewise, Mr. Kaushal Bisht from Varaha ClimateAg Pvt Ltd. stated, “By integrating agroforestry and carbon credit mechanisms, we are creating a model where farmers can achieve economic growth while contributing to climate resilience.”
