Completed project
Sahakarya: Working Together for Development
September 2003 to March 2012
$9,400,000 CAD
Canadian International Development Agency
50,000
households across five rural districts in Western Nepal (Surkhet, Dailekh, Jumla, Dadheldura, Baitadi)
In remote mountain regions of Western Nepal, access to public information and government programs remained limited for many rural communities, especially for women and marginalized groups. Sahakarya — “working together” in Nepali — helped improve the living conditions of more than 50,000 households. Implemented by CECI with support from CIDA, the project strengthened food security, expanded civic participation and promoted women’s leadership. By sharing essential information, building community networks and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, Sahakarya inspired the Government of Nepal and several donors to adopt its community planning tools.
Local governance and gender equality
The power of knowing
Accessing public programs starts with knowing they exist. Building on this principle, Sahakarya trained, informed and supported rural communities to engage in local planning processes.
Dambari Devi Oli, president of the Women Awareness-raising Network in Dadheldura district, explains:
“I now understand the purpose of the funds allocated to disadvantaged people. I am closely monitoring how budgets for women are assigned.”
In Baitadi, Rewati Bohara highlights a similar experience:
“Our women’s group attended an orientation session that helped us prepare and submit a proposal to the local development committee. The funds awarded will support women’s professional development.”
These experiences reflect a broader shift: more transparent local governance and meaningful participation from women across communities.
Results that count
Food security, governance and women’s empowerment
13
strengthened local organizations and cooperatives
50,000
households supported
Our partners
Thank you to our financial and implementation partners, without whom this project would not be possible.
