In Nepal, since August 2015 and with the International Organization for Migrations (IOM)’s support, ACTED has assumed a major coordination role for the improvement of living conditions in displacement sites.
In the aftermath of earthquakes that struck Nepal in 2015, half a million people lost their shelters and many did not have any option but to establish into camps. Since then, they have been living in basic shelters, with little access to WASH facilities, foodstuffs and economic opportunities.
This project aims at improving the living standards of over 6,300 individuals residing in camps in Dolakha, Sindhupalchok and Dhading districts. ACTED’s mission is to support displaced persons by creating site committees and ensuring coordination amongst stakeholders to tackle fundamental needs. Ultimately, ACTED strives to find long-term housing and economic solutions to restore the livelihoods of displaced people.
ACTED’s integrated approach to tackle people’s needs
ACTED has supplied displaced households with winterization materials and dignity kits so as to upgrade their living conditions, and regularly monitors camps to assess needs. The dearth of economic opportunities is one of the main challenges that camp residents have to face. In order to provide them with such opportunities, ACTED has set up Cash-for-Work schemes to maintain and improve camp infrastructures. Households have been able to use this income according to their preferences and needs, and ACTED encourages them to invest in materials or land so that they can develop income-generating activities and build a future for themselves.
Rosham’s story
Rosham and his family lived in Reegaun, Dhading, before the earthquakes destroyed their home and lands, on which they used to cultivate wheat and maize. They lost everything. It took them three days to reach the Damgade camp by foot. There, Rosham was supplied with materials to build a temporary home, and his four children have enrolled in nearby schools. In order to restore his family’s livelihood and living standards, Rosham makes and sells traditional baskets on the local market. He hopes to be able to buy a plot of land soon, and start growing crops again.
If Rosham could send one message to all other displaced people across the country, he would tell them: “live in peace and be patient”.