Press Coverage of the LWF Country Program in Nepal and LWF Earthquake Response
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Here you will find Press Releases and Press Coverage of the LWF Nepal Earthquake Response
For more information please contact
Gopal Dahal
Humanitarian Program Coordinator
LWF Nepal
Phone: 9851016527
Email: [email protected]
The central team of Act Alliance joint monitoring visit led by Dr Prabin Manadhar, the Country Director of LWF Nepal has visited Gatlang and Goljung VDCs of Rasuwa district on Friday. They observed transitional shelter, livelihood and water and Sanitation related activities in the VDCs. They also attended a cultural program organized by local people. LWF has been implementing shelter, non food item support, psychosocial support and water and sanitation activitities in Rasuwa under Act appeal.
The team had interacted with LWF’s project implementing partner Manekor Society Nepal and district stakeholders in Rasuwa on Thursday. LWF, as a member of Act member under act appeal has been implementing Nepal Earthquake Response program in Rasuwa, Dolakha , Sindhupalchowk , Kathmandu and Lalitpur. The team is slated to return to Kathmandu by Friday evening.
The central team of monitoring visit includes Winnie Wong (HKCC), Johanna Arponen (FCA), Dr. Prabin Manandhar, LWF, Phanindra Pandey, ICCO, Lila Bashyal, FCA, Pinar Gokgun, DKH and Dr Subash Gurung, LWF.
The members of the ACT Alliance had arrived here in Kathmandu on 10th of January for a joint monitoring visit. The visit is aimed at taking stock of the impact of the alliance’s and its partners’ assistance targeted towards the victims of the devastating earthquake on April earlier this year. The team started its field visit from 11th of January, following a kick-off program held at the capital’s Sangrila Hotel amid the presence of government and media representatives.
Dr. Prabin Manandhar, Country Director of The Lutheran World Federation Nepal and Coordinator of ACT Allince Nepal Forum, speaks on Emergency Response and International Aid on News 24 TV Station on 7th May, 2015.
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on The Rising Nepal
After the April 25 earthquake, many young people in villages have shown an increasing interest in joining development agencies. The number of youth applying for limited seats of development agencies is astonishingly high in Gorkha, said Subhash Bharati, a WASH engineer with ECO Nepal, a local NGO. "Young people today seem to understand that they should not limit their interests to medicine and engineering, and that development field can be a lucrative option too," Bharati added.
"During my visits to various remote villages in Nepal, I was inquired by many young people on how to join development agencies," said David Wallace Smith, regional representative of Dan Church Aid. He said that many development agencies are after young talents these days."We need new ideas and new approaches to run our programs," he said, adding, "After all, youth are the future of the country."
Republica's Bipulendra Adhikari caught up with some young people actively working with development agencies in Gorkha about the work they're currently doing, and their future plans.
Ayush Pradhanang, 24
Kathmandu
I'm a graduate of Business Administration from Apex College in Kathmandu. I'm currently working for a NGO promoting livelihood. The best thing about this job is that you go on the field and learn by doing. This has helped me gain the much-needed practical knowledge while working here in Gorkha. Getting this job wasn't easy though. I had to go through a tough test and an interview before I was selected for the post. I have been raising awareness among villagers on livestock management here. I want to continue working in the development field in the coming days. I also plan to join Master's in Rural Development.
Sarita Sedhai, 19
Lamjung
I have completed sub-overseer studies and currently enrolled in BBS first year at Drabya Shah Multiple Campus in Gorkha. I am working in the field of water and sanitation, compiling various data on water schemes and sanitation. I have directly participated in three water supply projects—two have already been completed and one is in the last phase of completion. I not only chose to work in the development sector because this interests me, but it also gives me an opportunity to fully make use of what I've studied in the classroom.
Shriya Dhamala, 21
Kailali
I have completed staff nurse course and I'm currently working in villages of Gorkha disseminating awareness on sanitation. I have been teaching people on latrine maintenance, menstrual hygiene, etc. I'm very happy with my work here, and I'm looking forward to explore more opportunities in the development sector. It not only matches my interests but also provides a career option I can rely on. However, if I fail to get a new offer after my contract ends, I will pursue Bachelor's in Nursing, and will look for jobs in development agencies.
Nabina Gurung, 24
Gorkha
I'm working as a social mobilizer for six VDCs in Gorkha District. I always wanted to be involved with development agencies in order to contribute for the betterment of marginalized and backward communities. My main responsibility right now is to compile what the villagers need. I have already compiled the requirements of 300 households of Talingchowk VDC and reported it to my supervisor. The work here has given me practical experience that books fail to offer. I'm waiting for my Bachelor's results.
Yan Bahadur Praja, 28
Gorkha
I am from the Chepang community and I currently work as a mason trainer. I have been directly involved in the construction of around 45 latrines at the Talingchowk VDC of Gorkha District in the last four months. I visited the Chepang community and shared my knowledge on construction of latrines and earthquake-resistant houses. As I belong to the community, it's easier for me to convince them. My association with development agencies has also helped me convince my people.
- See more at: http://myrepublica.com/my-career/story/35332/village-youth-attracted-to-...
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal 18 Jan 2016 REPUBLICA
KATHMANDU, Dec 15: The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) Nepal has provided Rs 8,500,000 to 1,700 earthquake-affected families of Gatlang, Goljung, Chilime, Ramche and Yarsavillage development committees (VDCs) in Rasuwa district for their livelihood support.
LWF Nepal distributed Rs 5,000 to each family through its local partner organization Manekor Society Nepal.303 families in Gatlang, 201 in Goljung, 212 in Chilime, 400 in Ramche and 584 in Yarsa VDCs received the cash.The cash was distributed from 6-9 December in different VDCs."We have provided livelihood support to the most-affected families of Gatlang, Goljung, Chilime, Ramche and YarsaVDCs in Rasuwa, one of the worst-hit districts," Dr Prabin Manandhar, Country Director of LWF Nepal, said.
Link : http://myrepublica.com/society/story/32941/lwf-nepal-provides-cash-to-1-...
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on Republica on 21 May 2015
http://e.myrepublica.com/component/flippingbook/book/1929-republica-21-m...
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on Naya Patrika on 15 May 2015
http://www.enayapatrika.com/epaper/may-15/ (Page no 10)
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on The Rising Nepal(Nation) on 10 May 2015
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on My Republica on 9 May 2015
http://myrepublica.com/society/item/20700-lwf-unhcr-to-support-more-quak...
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on My Republica on 8 May 2015
http://myrepublica.com/society/item/20576-act-alliance-lwf-support-over-...
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on Karobar Daily on 7 May 2015
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on Janasawal on 6 May 2015
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on Rajdhani on 5 May 2015
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on My Republica on 5 May 2015
http://www.myrepublica.com/society/item/20365-lwf-nepal-supports-3-029-e...
Kofi Annan has said, “Ensure young people have every opportunity to participate fully in the lives of their societies,” for the youth, “can be key agents of development and peace.”
The earthquake that occurred on 25th April, 2015 has united the youth of Nepal. Many have volunteered in various development organizations to contribute however they can, to help rebuild the nation. LWF Nepal currently has more than hundred volunteers, tirelessly providing their time and support in the Emergency Operation Program. In their own words what inspired them to volunteer:
- Ramita Prajapati (26): A resident of Thimi, Bhaktapur and a postgraduate in Sociology and Anthropology, and Environmental Science, Ramita had recently provided her CV to LWF Nepal for a possible internship. LWF Nepal soon contacted her for volunteering in the Emergency Operation Program. Ramita, who was feeling helpless watching the daily news of the devastation caused by the earthquake was glad to receive the call and agreed to help. She shared that she had wanted to help earthquake victims individually, as well as with a group of college friends. However, they faced several difficulties such as lack of systematic organization of their operations and budget. They realized they would have to channel their help through a formal institution for effective and sustainable relief. Ramita is hence, satisfied with her decision to volunteer with LWF Nepal and commends the quick response of the Emergency Operation Program.
- Buddha Laxmi Nhemaphuky (26): “My home Gundu VDC suffered the worst damage during the earthquake in Bhaktapur. I wanted to help through a formal organization. My volunteer friend from LWF Nepal asked me to volunteer as well. Thus, I decided to volunteer for the Emergency Operation Program.” Buddha is a postgraduate student of Development Studies. She has also worked as a program assistant for two years with National Muslim Forum Nepal. She shares that the role of INGOs, NGOs and civil society is extremely important for efficient and effective relief for earthquake victims, and commends the development sector for their efforts in this trying time for the nation.
- Sameer Awasthi (24): “I was suggested to volunteer for LWF Nepal in their Emergency Operation Program by a relative who has been working in the development sector for a considerable period of time.” A resident of New Baneshwor, Kathmandu and an undergraduate in Social Work, Sameer aspires to pursue his postgraduate in International Relations. When the earthquake occurred on 25th April, 2015, that very evening Sameer and his group of friends went to Bhaktapur to provide whatever support they could. They not only bought and distributed packets of noodles to the earthquake victims, but also encouraged and helped the police to pull out victims stuck in the rubbles of the fallen buildings. Sameer believes in immediate relief response, be it through formal or informal channels. Apart from ready-to-eat food items, he suggested that other food items such as rice and lentils, which are digestible for old people and children, should be included in immediate relief items if possible.
- Banshi Chaudhary (38): A resident of Kapan, Kathmandu and a postgraduate student of Development Studies, Banshi chose to volunteer for LWF Nepal because of his prior experience with the organization. Banshi worked as a programme manager for almost eight years at ‘Kamaiya Pratha Unmulan Samaj (KPUS), an Implementing Partner of LWF Nepal for the ‘Enhancing Dignity of Freed HaaK” Project. He commended and appreciated LWF Nepal’s Emergency Operation Program sharing, “I remember a similar program by LWF Nepal in Kailali regarding emergency flooding response. Comparatively, the earthquake response right now is happening faster and I can see improved relief delivery.” He further added, “Civil society, INGOs and NGOs are key players during such emergency situations. I consider them to be more effective than the government because political agendas do not interfere in their service delivery.”
- Rita Gurung (27): A resident of Shantinagar, Kathmandu and postgraduate in Rural Development, Rita is thankful to be able to volunteer with LWF Nepal in its Emergency Operation Program. At a moment when she was feeling helpless staying at home and watching the daily news of the earthquake devastation, a relative recommended volunteering for LWF Nepal. She is feeling productive and appreciates the systematic relief delivery of the organization. She considers the civil society, INGOs and NGOs as vital to help relieve the emergency situation gripping the nation. She aspires to be a development worker in the near future as well.
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on The Rising Nepal on 3 May 2015
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on Republica on 2 May 2015
http://e.myrepublica.com/component/flippingbook/book/1913-republica-02-m...
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on The Himalayan Times on 2 May 2015
News on Relief Response by Act Alliance Nepal Forum / LWF Nepal Published on The Rising Nepal(Nation) on 7 December 2015
Kathmandu, 30 August 2016
ACT Alliance Nepal Forum, a network of humanitarian and development international NGOs, organized an interaction on sharing experiences and lessons learnt in Kathmandu on 1 June 2016, to review its response to the 15 April 2015 earthquake in Nepal.
During the program, members of the forum shared their progress, challenges faced while implementing response activities to the earthquake. The issues related to the sustainability, coordination and collaboration of the implementation of humanitarian program. The program was coincided with the ACT Appeal’s evaluation finding sharing program and commemoration of Gorkha earthquake.
Dr Prabin Manandhar, Country Director of LWF Nepal and Convener of the alliance, welcomed the high-level government officials from Social Welfare Council, National Reconstruction Authority, Association of International NGOs in Nepal (AIN), civil society representatives and the members of the alliance to the event.
He said, “It’s been 14 months since the devastating earthquake. The road to recovery and reconstruction has become a tougher one. There are overlapping responsibilities. ACT is a loose network. We acted first and fast and reached 100,000 HHS. We have carried out external evaluation of response to the earthquake, and will hear from the team what went well and what could be done better. We want learn and move ahead focusing on livelihood, DRR, Governance and Psychosocial support”.
He said that there was a vicious nexus between poverty and vulnerability. Natural disasters were not class-neutral. We link relief and reconstruction with development. The government is the primary agent, not the external actors. Target approach has created conflict as government did not have strong presence, NGOs can’t work as the state, he added.
“Cash-based approach does not apply everywhere and we have to reach the disabled and incapacitated, the elderly with cash. But materials relief in Nepal went very well. The government was decentralized. Yet there were some duplication and discrepancies as all could not go with full package, but during recovery the governance was centralized. The formation, dissolution and re-formation of NRA, blockade, delay in government’s decision to issue guidelines created some problem. But we can learn from the past and move forward,” he further said.
Mr Dilli Bhatta, Member-secretary of SWC, Dr Manandhar, representative from NRA and NGO Federation of Nepal jointly launched ACT Alliance Nepal Forum’s publication titled ‘ACT Response to the Gorkha Earthquake: Lesson Learnt’. The report includes overall progress of ACT members in emergency response, process followed during the response, sustainability of their intervention, lesson learned and change stories.“The joint program and joint publication symbolizes that ACT Alliance Nepal forum adopts a joint strategy to deal with the policy advocacy and programmatic issues”, Dr Manandhar said.
ACT Alliance Nepal Forum members worked in remote and isolated VDCs of 10 districts of Nepal and have covered 122 VDCs and 6 municipalities through 21 local implementing partners to assist earthquake-affected people in Nepal under ACT Appeal. A joint ACT appeal was submitted in April 2015, soon after the first earthquake. The Alliance members DanChurchAid (DCA), Finn Church Aid (FCA), ICCO Cooperation (ICCO), LWF, Lutheran World Relief (LWR), Christian Aid (CA), Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission (Felm) and Diakonie Catastrophenhilfe (DKH). The alliance played an important role following the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake by carrying out humanitarian work linking them with development under different thematic areas.They carried out relief right from the day one of the earthquake from the Kathmandu valley. Basically the members focused their intervention on relief in the early days with focus on water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), shelter - temporary and transitional -, disaster risk reduction (DRR) emergency preparedness, psychosocial support, temporary learning centres, early recovery and livelihood support and construction of permanent shelter. They are working Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Kavre, Sindhupalchok, Dolakha, Sindhuli, Rasuwa, Makawanpur, Dhading, Gorkha, Lamjung, Tanahun on different sectors, out of 14 most-affected districts. Mr Bhatta, said that the support from the government and non-government agencies were commendable. “The gallery showcases your work. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to let us know about your work, he said.He said that INGOs could register themselves either with the SWC or the NRA. SWC is a regulatory body, not implementer but NRA implements and evaluates the entire reconstruction work. “Through the AIN chair, we have made our stance clear. I ask you to deal directly with SWC. Minor changes in projects does not discourage you,” he added.Kamakshi Rai Yakthumba, representative of AUSAID, said that the event was important for them as they were also going to externally evaluate their recovery program next year.Appreciating the opportunity to listen to the evaluation team, the opinion of NRA, SWC, Dalit NGO federation, AIN representatives and the alliance members, Dr Manandhar urged the government agencies to include AIN and NGO Federation to create ownership and broaden the participation of actors in the reconstruction.
The progress made in different sectors by the alliance members was showcased through display of sample materials distributed, publications, photographs, and print materials among others.
Kathmandu 2 May 2015 – The ACT Alliance Nepal Forum/Lutheran World Federation (LWF) Nepal, a humanitarian international NGO, has supported 1,429 families living in shelters in Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur districts with tarpaulins, blankets, and ready-to-eat foods who have been affected by the earthquake that occurred on 25 April.
LWF Nepal, which is the Emergency Operation Secretariat of ACT Alliance Nepal Forum, a consortium of like-minded humanitarian organization working in Nepal, provided the support to the most-affected families in coordination with the local government agencies after conducting need assessments of the people living in those shelters.
Dr Prabin Manandhar, Country Director of LWF Nepal and Coordinator of Emergency Response, said, “We have supported the most affected families in the Kathmandu Valley being one of the worst hit areas, and will reach out the other most affected rural districts soon.”
He also said that the LWF Nepal has planned to assist 5,000 families worst-hit by the earthquake within a week. The shortage of relief materials including food and non-food items has slowed the distribution, but efforts are being made to import relief materials from India and China soonest as possible.
LWF Nepal has also sent a team to Gorkha and Dhading districts to assess the needs of earthquake-affected people in order to render the distribution process more effective and to avoid duplication of work.
The ACT Alliance Nepal Forum comprises Dan Church Aid; The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission; The Amity Foundation; FinnChurch Aid; ICCO Cooperation; LWF Nepal; Lutheran World Relief; and Christian Aid.
LWF Nepal, a country program of the LWF Department for World Service, has been working with marginalized and disadvantaged communities of Nepal since 1984 on Disaster Risk Reduction and Emergency Preparedness and Response; Sustainable Livelihoods; and Community-led Actions for Governance and Justice. Its core commitments are Human Rights; Impartiality; Inclusion and Participation; Accountability; Gender Justice and Climate Justice; and Environmental Sustainability.
For more information please contact
Ram Sharan Sedhai
Resource Mobilization and Communication Coordinator
LWF Nepal
Phone: 9851087619
Email: [email protected]
