CARE International’s history in Nepal
CARE began working in Nepal in 1978 and was one of the first international organizations present in the country. Early programs supported basic humanitarian and development needs, including health services, infrastructure, agriculture, and natural resource management in rural communities.
Over time, CARE Nepal’s role evolved from direct service delivery to working more closely with local partners to support locally led solutions, with a strong focus on women and girls.
Together with our partners, we have responded to major crises, including the 2015 earthquake and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. We continue this work today to address the root causes of poverty and inequality.
CARE and partners’ work in Nepal today
CARE Nepal focuses on supporting the leadership and opportunities of women and girls, especially those who face the greatest barriers. We work with communities, partner organizations, and local networks to connect community priorities with decision-making at local and national levels. Our work includes:
Gender equality
CARE works with communities to challenge harmful social norms and support women’s leadership and participation in decision-making.
Climate
CARE supports communities to prepare for and respond to climate-related challenges and natural disasters. Programs help communities adapt to climate change impacts and better prepare for disasters.
Health
CARE works with partners to improve access to health services and strengthen community health systems, particularly for women and girls.
Making the economy work
We support women’s livelihoods, entrepreneurship, and income-generating opportunities to help families improve their financial stability.
Focus on women and girls
Women and girls are at the centre of CARE Nepal’s work.
Much of CARE’s work focuses on strengthening women’s leadership and collective action across areas such as education, livelihoods, climate, health, governance, and crisis response.
CARE Nepal works closely with women-led groups, and community networks, supporting women and girls not only as participants but also as leaders who shape decisions, policies, and community priorities.
For recent updates on CARE Nepal, see here.
