The Asian Development Bank (ADB), the World Bank Group's International Development Association (IDA), and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) have forged a critical three-year partnership to bolster Nepal's disaster risk management and build climate-resilient infrastructure.
This collaboration reaffirms their shared commitment to the Nepal government as the country faces escalating threats from climate-induced hazards like floods, landslides, and glacier melt, which pose severe risks to communities and vital sectors, including hydropower.
"Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and disaster risk management has never been more critical," stated Arnaud Cauchois, ADB Country Director for Nepal. "Through strengthened coordination, we aim to support Nepal in building resilience to climate impacts and ensuring that investments bring lasting benefits." David Sislen, World Bank Division Director, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that, as one of the world's most vulnerable countries, sustained efforts to reduce risks must be "at the heart of Nepal’s development agenda."
The partner agencies plan to focus on developing resilient infrastructure and advancing existing investments, particularly in the hydropower sector within the Dudh Koshi River Basin in Koshi Province. The partnership's broader goals include enhancing multi-hazard risk assessment models, establishing comprehensive early warning systems, advancing climate risk management and financial services, and promoting knowledge sharing.
Ambassador Arno Wicki, SDC Assistant Director General, highlighted Switzerland's contribution: a dedicated team of experts from academia and the private sector will be mobilized to co-develop innovative solutions with Nepali counterparts, ADB, and IDA. This approach reflects Switzerland's belief in inclusive, knowledge-driven partnerships for a safer, more sustainable future.
By improving coordination, avoiding duplication, and leveraging collective expertise, the ADB, IDA, and SDC aim to maximize their impact in supporting Nepal’s sustainable and resilient development.
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