Nepal, UK sign grant agreement for climate resilience, empowerment of local levels

Kathmandu, Aug 28: Nepal and the United Kingdom have signed two separate memorandums of understanding (MoU) relating to grant aid.     

One of the grants with funding of some Rs 6.5 billion is for the programme focused on resilience, adaptation, and inclusion in Nepal, while another of Rs 6.58 billion emphasizes on gender and human development outcomes.     

Both of these programmes would be conducted in Karnali, Lumbini and Madhes provinces. They are aimed at enabling local governments and communities vulnerable to climate change. Building human capital and improving the delivery of basic services in these provinces.     

The MoUs were signed by Joint Secretary at Finance Ministry, Dhani Ram Sharma, on behalf of Nepal and Development Director and Deputy Ambassador at British Embassy in Kathmandu, Pippa Bird on behalf of the UK government, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Finance here today.     

The resilience and adaptation programme lasts for six years. Similarly capacity enhancement project will be implemented for seven years.     

At the grant signing ceremony, Joint Secretary Sharma observed, "These two MoUs are testament to the cordial and steadfast development cooperation between our two countries. I believe that the relevant government agencies will coordinate effectively to achieve the objects of these prgrammes."     

Similarly, Pippa Bird viewed, "We're committed to supporting Nepal address the challenges brought by climate change, global and regional health threats, and scarce resources to provide social services. Among others, these programs will build resilience to natural disasters and climate changes and improve the delivery of basic services to the most vulnerable."(RSS)