Kathmandu, June 8: British Ambassador to Nepal, Rob Fenn, described Nepal as a ‘living laboratory’ for climate adaptation and innovation. The British envoy made the remarks at a gathering of the stakeholders working for climate action in Kathmandu on Monday. “From the Himalayan region to smallholder farms, combining local knowledge with modern technology can drive transformative change,” he said.
Stakeholders gathered to discuss ways and means to further advancing the ‘Accelerating Food Systems Climate Innovation (AFCIA) programme, a joint initiative of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forests and Environment.
The gathering was also part of the efforts to coordinate efforts among the stakeholders to strengthen climate resilience and food security. During the discussion, Ministry’s Secretary Dr. Govinda Prasad Sharma stressed the need to scale up sustainable climate adaptation solutions tailored to local needs. “Our collaboration with the WFP will empower innovators and help strengthen the resilience of Nepal’s agricultural systems and vulnerable communities,” he added.
Likewise, WFP Nepal Country Director, Riaz Lodhi, highlighted the importance of innovation in addressing climate-related disasters. “Innovation plays a critical role in helping communities confront the growing challenges posed by climate-induced risks,” he noted.
The AFCIA programme prioritizes solar-powered irrigation, clean energy technologies, digital advisory services for farmers, satellite-based insurance and climate information systems, as well as market and value-chain innovations for smallholder farmers.
Participants also discussed scaling up climate-smart solutions nationwide and attracting investment for wider impact.
