In a significant move to bolster Nepal’s eco-tourism sector and empower local communities, the Swiss government has pledged financial assistance of 9.01 million Swiss francs for a trekking-based tourism project in the Koshi Province. The four-year project, slated to commence this year, is expected to directly benefit approximately 100,000 locals across 29 local levels within the province.
During a ceremony held at the Finance Ministry today, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Shreekrishna Nepal, Joint-Secretary at the Ministry, and Dr. Danielle Meuwly, the Swiss Ambassador to Nepal, formally solidifying the partnership.
The project aims to support the conservation of local art and culture, promote local production, generate employment opportunities, and foster sustainable tourism practices in the region. By leveraging the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Koshi Province, the initiative seeks to uplift local communities and drive environmentally friendly socio-economic progress.
Ambassador Meuwly expressed confidence that the project would serve as a milestone in promoting sustainable tourism development and invigorating the local economy. “The implementation of this project will significantly contribute to environmentally friendly socio-economic progress, empowering local communities and preserving the region’s unique cultural heritage,” she stated.
Echoing similar sentiments, Nepal’s Joint-Secretary and Chief of International Economic Cooperation Coordination Division highlighted that the project would enhance the tourism capacity of the Koshi Province, consequently boosting the income sources of locals through the promotion of eco-tourism. “This initiative aligns with our vision of promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices while creating opportunities for inclusive growth and economic empowerment,” he emphasized.
The project’s focus on trekking-based tourism is expected to not only showcase the region’s natural beauty but also provide a platform for local communities to showcase their rich cultural traditions, handicrafts, and culinary delights. By fostering community-based tourism models, the initiative aims to ensure that the benefits of tourism are directly channeled to the grassroots level, driving sustainable livelihoods and economic resilience.
As Nepal continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on its tourism sector, initiatives like this Swiss-funded project are expected to play a crucial role in diversifying tourism offerings, promoting lesser-known destinations, and positioning the country as a hub for responsible and eco-friendly travel experiences.
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