KATHMANDU – The United States, through USAID, has launched a $21 million Agricultural Direct Financing project designed to enhance food security in Nepal. This initiative, introduced in conjunction with the US Government’s new Global Food Security Strategy (GFSS) Nepal Country Plan 2024-2028, aims to bolster agricultural development in Lumbini and Sudurpaschim provinces.

The project is expected to assist 69,000 households across 53,000 hectares of land by promoting the adoption of innovative technologies and agricultural practices. Additionally, it expands the US’s agricultural development efforts into Madhesh Province, targeting the most vulnerable populations in Nepal.

US Ambassador Dean Thompson emphasized that the new plan will strengthen the longstanding partnership between the US and Nepal to foster sustainable and inclusive growth. Agriculture Minister Ramnath Adhikari underscored the importance of this collaboration in advancing food security and sustainable development in the country.

Since 2011, US-funded food security programs have positively impacted over 800,000 Nepalis, resulting in a 71 percent reduction in poverty and a 39 percent decrease in child stunting.