In a program organized by Sahara Nepal in collaboration with The Coca-Cola Foundation and Barah AG on “Strengthening the Regenerative Horticulture Value Chain in Nepal,” Honorable Speaker of the House of Representatives, Devraj Ghimire, stated that Nepal is suffering the consequences of crimes it did not commit due to climate change.He emphasized that carbon emissions from various countries have negatively impacted Nepal’s climate and shared observations from his recent visit to Pokhara. According to him, the Machhapuchhre mountain, which was once covered in snow, now appears as a black rock due to the lack of snowfall—an alarming change seen across the entire Himalayan region.
Speaker Ghimire further highlighted that climate change has dried up water sources in some areas, forcing residents to relocate. He also pointed out that animals adapted to cold climates are facing the threat of extinction, while high-altitude plants are struggling to survive due to rising temperatures, putting biodiversity at risk.
He appreciated Sahara Nepal’s efforts in promoting Nepal’s agricultural sector with financial support from The Coca-Cola Foundation and collaboration with Barah Climate AG. Acknowledging challenges such as climate change, land degradation, declining soil productivity, floods, and landslides, he stressed the need to promote indigenous crops and plant conservation to support a green economy.
On this occasion, Devyani Rajya Lakshmi Rana, Vice President of The Coca-Cola Foundation, expressed hope that their initiative would have a positive impact on Nepal’s environment and livelihoods. She mentioned that approximately 250,000 fruit saplings were planted in 13 districts last year, with plans to expand the project this year.
The event was attended by Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Minister of Forests and Environment Ain Bahadur Shahi, senior officials, and other stakeholders. Sahara Nepal’s Member Secretary, Mahendra Giri, highlighted the organization’s efforts in addressing both the immediate and long-term impacts of climate change.
Yubaraj Shivakoti, Executive Director of Sahara Nepal, presented insights on “Strengthening the Regenerative Horticulture Value Chain in Nepal.” Farmers participating in the program shared their experiences of using saplings provided by Sahara Nepal to restore greenery on barren lands and expressed optimism for continued support.
Meanwhile, Mayor of Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality, Tirtha Raj Bhattarai, announced plans to organize a Bamboo Festival in his municipality. The program was presided over by Sahara Nepal’s President, Bharat Giri.
