'Country programming framework' unveiled

The 'country programming framework (2023-27)' of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UNFAO) for the transformation of the overall agriculture sector of Nepal has been released.

Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Dr Beduram Bhusal, National Planning Commission Vice-Chairperson Dr Min Bahadur Shrestha, FAO Asia-Pacific Region Chief Jong-Jin Kim and UN Resident Representative Hanaa Singer-Hamdy jointly launched the framework on Wednesday. The framework covers a strategic programme for five years from 2023 to 2027.

On the occasion, Minister Dr Bhusal appreciated the support and cooperation of the FAO for the agriculture development of Nepal and expressed his belief that the framework would help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Lauding the over seven-decade long partnership between FAO and Nepal, the Minister said the framework was the shared document of the Nepal government and FAO.

He further noted that the document would help promote sustainable development, maintain food and nutrition security and achieve SDGs.

Also speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chairperson of the NPC, Dr Shrestha said the framework would contribute to the transformation of the food system of Nepal, support the national campaign against food crisis and poverty and combat climate change issues.

FAO's Asia-Pacific Region Chief Kim expressed FAO readiness to support the policy and priorities of the Nepal government as per its mandate.

He said FAO has brought several programmes, including increment in production and improvement in nutrition, environment as per the strategic framework of improved livelihood in its member countries.

He further said such practice would not only facilitate inclusive development but also assure food security of all citizens.

Chief Kim also insisted on the need to transform the country's food system to effectively tackle malnutrition and other food challenges.

UN Resident Representative Hamdy said the framework has laid special emphasis on women-friendly technological development and promotion when women's responsibility has increased in the agriculture sector with the growing trends of Nepali youths leaving their home for employment.

The UN senior official also expressed the full support and cooperation of the UN to Nepal in its process to graduate to the developing country from the Least Developed Country by 2026.

The programme was attended by ambassadors, representatives of development partners, government officials, private sector representatives, agriculture entrepreneurs, industrialists and business community.