USAID giving $58.5m to ‘advance democratic progress in Nepal’

KATHMANDU: US development agency, USAID, is providing up to $58.5 million to advance democratic progress in Nepal.

Visiting USAID Administrator, Samantha Power, made the announcement during an interaction with the leaders of the Nepali government, civil society and private secotr in Kathmandu on Tuesday.

According to a statement issued by the US Embassy in Kathmandu, $40.2 million of the announcement is part of the $659 million development objective agreement announced in 2022.

“Following transparent and peaceful elections in 2022, Nepal has an opportunity to strengthen federalism, advance the inclusion of women and marginalized communities, empower its young people, and demonstrate that democracy can deliver for its citizens. The United States will be a partner in this effort,” the embassy said in the statement.

USAID’s investment is expected to help Nepal cement its democratic gains and usher in greater prosperity and resilience for the Nepali people by strengthening public financial management, independent civil society and media, democratic processes and institutions, rule of law, and private sector development.

The assistance announced on Tuesday includes $20 million to strengthen inclusive democracy and prosperity in Nepal and $18.5 million to support civil society and media.\\\