Devraki

After the destruction of the 2015 earthquakes, the everyday livelihoods of nearly all farmers across Nepal were negatively impacted. This story highlights how PHASE have worked to recover livelihoods opportunities for farmers that have been considerably setback by the destruction of the earthquake.

As part of the Rebuilding Communities project launched after the earthquakes, PHASE worked in the districts of Sindhupalchok and Kavre to reinstate basic agricultural practices for damaged communities. Devraki, a young woman from Kavre, participated in the rebuilding communities project with hope to learn about farming practices that can help improve soil fertility and irrigation. As a result of the agricultural training Devraki participated in, Devraki now grows pumpkin, cucumber, cabbage, peas and spinach on her farm, vegetables she has never been able to grow before. This has positive, interconnected effects for her family as Devraki can now sell a wider range of surplus at local markets and live a healthier lifestyle with a diverse diet. PHASE agricultural training in this case aims to support local communities overcome isolation that has been worsened by the 2015 earthquake, and develop their own ways to boost agricultural productivity. Devraki has been able to take a stronger hold of her livelihood development, despite setbacks that may of been caused by the earthquakes.