KOICA concludes Integrated Rural Development Project worth $4.7 million

The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), together with implementing partner, Korea Development Strategy Institute (KDS) Consortium today successfully concluded the five-year project titled 'Empowering Rural Communities in Nepal through an Integrated Approach to Health and Income Growth'.

Partnering with Dhulikhel Hospital with a total budget of $4.7 million, the project aimed to improve the quality of life in rural areas through enhanced healthcare access and sustainable income generation, according to a press note issued by the KOIKA office in Kathmandu. 

Approximately 150 stakeholders attended the event, including officials from Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, federal and local governments, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Nepal, KOICA Nepal Office, Dhulikhel Hospital, and civil society partners.

Implemented in four Dhulikhel Hospital Outreach centers across three districts (Tanahun, Sindhupalchowk, and Kavrepalanchok), the project supported agricultural infrastructure - including collection centers, vehicles, and demo farms - and provided training to strengthen farmer organisations, the press note reads, adding that it also offered entrepreneurship and vocational programmes for non-farming residents. "In the health sector, two outreach centers under Dhulikhel Hospital were newly constructed and equipped, while training was provided to local health workers and students."

By mobilising community-led committees, the project fostered not only improved income and health outcomes but also a stronger sense of ownership and social cohesion, it adds

Country Director of KOICA Nepal Office Kong Mooheon, during the concluding ceremony, highlighted the strength of linking agriculture and health to enhance community resilience

Likewise, Dr Biraj Man Karmacharya from Dhulikhel Hospital thanked the team for the efforts on implementing the project and shared that the successful result is clearly visible on the sites with the demand on its continuation and expansion. He also requested for the continuity of programme.

Dr Yoon Haejin, Project Leader from KDS shared his meaningful memories of the project. Despite the challenges posed by Covid-19, the project achieved successful and positive outcomes through the dedicated efforts of the project staff, the strong support of local governments and ward leaders, and the sincere participation of communities and farmers. He deeply appreciates all contributions and believes that the results will be sustained through continued collaboration.

The Government of the Republic of Korea has been supporting the Government of Nepal through KOICA in various areas of health, vocational training, rural development and IT since 1991. By 2024, total amount of KOICA’s support surpassed $200. Nepal’s designation as a Core Partnership Country by the Government of the Republic of Korea for 15 consecutive years highlights the strong bilateral relationship and commitment to Nepal’s development goals.