The winds of change are blowing
Nirmala Dhami, 27, has been watching the slow destruction caused by the climate crisis in the westernmost corner of Nepal with concern. The snow line on the mountains has receded and the water supply has become uncertain.
That is bad news for families who depend on agriculture. Growing the vitally important wheat and corn is no longer possible.
With support from Women’s Bank, Nirmala is switching to now growing more successful crops, such as potatoes, onions and chilies. However, her goal is to also learn a completely new occupation and become a seamstress!
– Our daughter is now in kindergarten, and I hope that with the additional income we can send her to a good school, Nirmala says.
She is part of a women’s group where women learn vocational skills and contribute to a joint fund, from which each of them can take out a loan to start a business.
Information about gender-based violence, women’s fundamental rights and equality is also shared in the group. This is necessary because the position of women is weak in the country.
The winds of change are blowing.
– It is important for women to get out from within the four walls of their homes and to have the opportunity to act as part of the community and influence their own livelihoods, Nirmala says.
Text: Eija Wallenius
Photos: Antti Yrjönen