KOICA, UNFPA, Good Neighbors launch SAFE-Girls Project in Sudurpaschim

Kathmandu, April 24

In a major step toward promoting gender equality and ending harmful practices, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and UNFPA, in collaboration with the Government of Nepal and Good Neighbors International Nepal, officially launched the Safe and Enabling Environment for Adolescent Girls (SAFE-Girls) project Friday in Sudurpaschim Province.

Launched in the presence of senior provincial leaders and development partners, the project is part of a US$ 6 million KOICA-funded initiative to empower adolescent girls and young women across Sudurpaschim, Lumbini, and Madhesh provinces.Over the next three years, the project will be implemented in selected municipalities of Achham and Bajura districts.

SAFE-Girls aims to tackle the root causes of gender-based violence and discriminatory norms by equipping adolescent girls and young women with the knowledge, skills, and platforms to lead change within their communities. The project also focuses on strengthening government and community systems for GBV prevention and response, while expanding access to comprehensive sexuality education.

“As we launch the SAFE-Girls programme, I call on all local governments to take ownership to this initiative and allocate the necessary budgets to ensure its success,” said Meghraj Khadka, Minister of Social Development, Sudurpaschim Province. “It is essential that we develop integrated, locally driven policies that address the real needs of adolescent girls.”

“This project is not just a UNFPA initiative. It is a shared commitment—from government, development partners, and communities alike,” said Bashir Najeeb, UNFPA Deputy Representative for Nepal. “Every one of us has a role to play in ensuring no girl is ever held back because of her gender.”

Representing Good Neighbors International Nepal, M. Mainuddin Mainul, Country Director, emphasized the long-term vision of the project:

“We are not merely implementing short-term interventions. We are laying the foundation for lasting social transformation—one where women and girls are valued, respected, and empowered to fully participate in the nation’s development.”

Chairing the launch event, Hemraj Regmi, Secretary at the Ministry of Social Development, Sudurpaschim Province, reaffirmed the government’s commitment:

“Sudurpaschim has long faced the compounded challenges of economic and human poverty, shaped by entrenched socio-cultural norms. Despite these challenges, we are investing in people—especially women, girls, and persons with disabilities—so they can thrive. Strengthened coordination will be key to achieving sustainable, transformative change across our communities.”

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