FROM STRUGGLE TO SUCCESS: UMARI’S JOURNEY TO BECOMING A MODEL VILLAGE: WOMEN AND ADOLESCENT-LED DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES

Umari village in the Kapilvastu district of Nepal is an example of the impact that the SEEDS programme had over the last five years. In 2019, as programme implementation started, Umari faced severe socio-economic challenges. The baseline study revealed that the village of 134 households, of which 91% belonged to marginalized Janajati and Dalit groups, had high rates of child marriage, alcohol and drug abuse, gender-based violence and economic hardship. After five years of implementation of the SEEDS programme which focused on establishing sustainable community structures, providing access to quality education, empowering adolescents, and improving livelihoods, the socio-economic situation in the village has dramatically changed.

The village is now known for eradicating child marriage, preventing school dropouts, eliminating violence, and promoting a “one family, one business” approach. The combination of awareness-raising, social campaigns and participatory monitoring have had a transformative effect on the village. Child marriage is no longer practiced, and each family in the village is now committed to their children’s well-being and aspirations for their future. All 134 families have declared their homes violence- free, reflecting a profound positive shift in the community’s social fabric. 90 male heads of households have stopped alcohol consumption and as a result, alcohol abuse is no longer an issue in the village. Educational outcomes have improved as well, with seven dropouts’ re-enrolled, and 89% of the parents creating a reading corner at home. The economic transformation is also evident. 90% of families are now engaging in income generating activities, and 85% have registered businesses. The transition from wage labour to self-employment has increased job opportunities by 40%, with 176 individuals earning Rs. 20,000 (NOK 1,574) to Rs. 30,000 (NOK 2,360) monthly, enhancing the community’s overall economic status. During the five years, the SEEDS programme strategically invested 2,076,000 NPR (165,000 NOK) into the Model Village Campaign, strengthening the capacities of community groups and initiating home gardens and income generating value addition activities. This campaign garnered both community and local government recognition. As a result, Ajaya Thapa, the Mayor of Shivaraj Municipality declared Umari the first Model Village in the municipality on 20th December 2023, praising its achievements and pledging municipal support to sustain it.