Japan, UNDP ink deal to support quake-affected communities in Jajarkot

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Feb. 26: The Embassy of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Nepal have signed an agreement to support communities affected by the Jajarkot earthquake.

Under this agreement, the Government of Japan will provide grant assistance to the UNDP for implementing the Project for the Improvement of Livelihoods and Disaster Resilience Enhancement in the affected areas. The signing ceremony took place at the UN House in Kathmandu on Tuesday. 

MAEDA Toru, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Nepal, and Kyoko Yokosuka, Resident Representative of UNDP Nepal signed the agreement. 

This partnership underscores Japan’s commitment to supporting Nepal’s recovery efforts following the devastating earthquake in Jajarkot, ensuring affected communities can rebuild their lives with enhanced resilience to future disasters.

The project, funded by the Government of Japan with an allocation of 250 million Japanese yen (around USD 1.7 million/Rs. 231 million), will be implemented by UNDP Nepal. 

It is designed to support communities in the areas affected by the November 3, 2023 earthquake, with a particular focus on restoring livelihoods, strengthening local governance and bolstering disaster preparedness. 

Additionally, the initiative aims to create an enabling environment for long-term recovery and reconstruction, ensuring that public services disrupted by the disaster are effectively restored.

At the signing ceremony,  Japanese Ambassador Toru reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to helping Nepal build stronger, more resilient communities. He said, “I hope that the project will make the lives of the people of Jajarkot and West Rukum easier and more resilient to disasters.” 

He expressed hope that the project would improve the lives of people in Jajarkot and Rukum West making them more resilient to disasters. He also noted that its completion in 2026 would add to the celebrations marking 70 years of diplomatic ties between Japan and Nepal. He emphasized that this initiative would further strengthen the partnership between Japan, UNDP and Nepal.

Kyoko Yokosuka highlighted UNDP’s dedication to working closely with all levels of government to support recovery and resilience-building efforts.

 She said, “The 6.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Karnali Province on November 3, 2023, severely impacted Jajarkot and Rukum West, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities and disrupting lives and livelihoods.” 

“In response, UNDP has been actively engaged with federal, provincial, and local authorities to facilitate immediate relief, early recovery and long-term rehabilitation efforts. While notable progress has been achieved, continued efforts are required to advance sustainable recovery and reconstruction in the affected regions,” she said.