Health and Village Development in Eastern Nepal

From 2010 to 2012, EcoHimal is implementing a health programme in Nepal. The regional focus of the activities is located in remote mountain villages in Eastern Nepal – in two village development committees (VDCs) in the Solu-Khumbu and Khotang districts.

By implementing this programme EcoHimal wants to provide better access to sound and efficient health services for poor and disadvantaged groups.

The programme focuses on the following activities:

• Infrastructural measures with respect to drinking water and village hygiene
• Information and awareness-raising on hygiene and health
• Training and education of health workers
• Improving the economic situation and food supply for the rural population
• A radio campaign for far-reaching information of the people on health topics
• Incorporation and utilization of traditional medicine

In both regions, the project cooperates closely with the local population and local partners.

The programme is supported by the Austrian Development Cooperation.

EcoHimal acquired Intercell as a sponsor for the programme.  Intercell AG is an innovative biotech  enterprise specializing in the development of vaccines against infectious diseases.

Andrea Schmid, head of  NGO Cooperation International of the Austrian Development Cooperation, visited the villages of Pawai and Bakachol of our health programme in October 2011. Please find her positive and constructive feedback in her field trip report.

In three case studies local villagers from Pawai and Bakachol talk about their benefits from the rural health programme:

• Yani Maya talks about the health of women
• Bir Bahadur shares his story being a shaman
• Dhan Kumari is proud having success as tailor