KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 7
USAID Administrator Samantha Power announced that USAID would provide up to USD 58.5 million to advance democratic progress in Nepal, subject to the availability of funds. USD 40.2 million of this announcement is part of the USD 659 million development objective agreement announced in 2022.
Following the transparent and peaceful elections in 2022, Nepal has the opportunity to strengthen federalism, advance the inclusion of women and marginalised communities, empower its young people, and demonstrate that democracy can deliver for its citizens. The United States will be a part-ner in this effort.
USAID's investments will help Nepal cement its democratic gains and usher in greater prosperity and resilience for the Nepali people by strengthening public financial management, independent civil society and media, democratic processes and institutions, rule of law, and private sector development.
USAID will also continue to help Nepal combat human trafficking.
According to a press release issued by the US Embassy in Nepal, the investments announced today include up to USD 20 million to strengthen inclusive democracy and prosperity in Nepal by supporting provincial and local governments to deliver public services in a more fiscally transparent and accountable manner.
The investments also include up to USD 18.5 million to support independent civil society organisations and media led by and for women, youth, and marginalised communities to advance community needs, fundamental freedoms, and accountability.
USAID will work with these civil society organisations as they build their skills, credibility, and techniques for engaging with the government and public effectively. USAID will also partner with the media to support efforts to improve public access to credible information and more diverse narratives that will enhance social trust in the media.
USAID will also work closely with and support local Nepali organisations and government institutions to strengthen rule of law, further support free and fair elections, and counter human trafficking.
These new investments build on more than 60 years of USAID partnerships with the government and people of Nepal, the private sector, and others to support Nepal's goals and aspirations.
USAID's approach to partnership is rooted in the assumption that Nepalis know best how to strengthen their own democracy and that only through respectful and mutual cooperation can we help Nepal prosper.
USAID looks forward to working in partnership with relevant Nepali government institutions to align our assistance with government priorities.
A version of this article appears in the print on February 8, 2023, of The Himalayan Times.
