KATHMANDU, JANUARY 18 The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) recorded significant progress in advancing gender equality, inclusive governance, democracy, climate action and economic empowerment in Nepal during 2025–26 through five community-based projects, supported by an investment of CAD 163,500. The Embassy of Canada to Nepal hosted a special reception in Kathmandu on Wednesday to acknowledge the achievements of the CFLI programme and outline its priorities for the coming year. The programme has focused on empowering marginalised communities, promoting inclusive growth and strengthening Canada–Nepal bilateral cooperation. Addressing the event, Deputy Ambassador Mark Allen said the CFLI has played a key role in deepening the partnership between Nepal and Canada. Noting that the two countries marked 60 years of diplomatic relations in 2025, he said, 'Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting Nepal in its efforts to promote gender equality, sustainable development, and equitable economic growth. As we commemorate six decades of strong diplomatic ties, we also celebrate the values we share- values rooted in sustainability, inclusive prosperity, and mutual respect.' According to the embassy, the CFLI-supported projects have delivered tangible results across multiple sectors. The Centre for Media Research–Nepal trained 210 young people to counter misinformation and online harassment, while its awareness programmes reached more than 20,000 citizens nationwide, contributing to safer digital spaces and democratic discourse. The Human Rights Film Centre developed a handbook on unpaid care work and the care economy, and conducted multi-stakeholder consultations involving around 100 participants from local to national levels to advocate for gender-responsive policies. The initiative also provided 25 media fellowships and supported artistic works focusing on care work. The Blue Diamond Society targeted 90 beneficiaries through sensitisation programmes, trainings and dialogue sessions to promote LGBTQIA+ visibility. As part of its advocacy, the organisation also carried out flash mobs in public spaces to highlight marriage equality and the implementation of Nepal's progressive legal framework. In Mustang, a project implemented by IUCN Nepal empowered 32 indigenous women to integrate gender-specific indigenous knowledge into natural resource conservation and climate resilience efforts. The project also trained 30 youth in leadership, conservation and climate adaptation, resulting in the development of three local climate action plans. Similarly, the Ujyalo Foundation's 'Samabesita' project supported 20 youth identifying as women and/or non-binary individuals through leadership workshops, civic engagement activities and fellowship support aimed at fostering inclusive participation in public life. The CFLI is a Global Affairs Canada programme that supports small-scale, high-impact projects designed and implemented by local partners in developing countries. Projects are selected and approved by Canadian diplomatic missions and are intended to strengthen bilateral relations while supporting grassroots initiatives and civil society.