ADB, IDA, and Switzerland Partner to Strengthen Nepal’s Disaster Risk Management
KATHMANDU, NEPAL (5 November 2025) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB), the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank Group, and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) have signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement reaffirms their joint commitment to assist the Government of Nepal in enhancing disaster risk reduction and management, alongside developing climate-resilient infrastructure.
Challenges Facing Nepal
Nepal is increasingly exposed to climate-related hazards such as floods, droughts, landslides, and glacier melting. These events result in significant human suffering, economic damage, and displacement of communities. Sectors dependent on natural resources, especially hydropower—an essential driver of Nepal’s economic growth—are particularly vulnerable.
Importance of Climate-Resilient Infrastructure
“Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and disaster risk management has never been more critical. These investments will not only strengthen communities and safeguard essential assets but also create jobs and foster long-term economic growth,” said Arnaud Cauchois, ADB Country Director for Nepal.
He added that through improved coordination and technical cooperation, ADB, IDA, and SDC aim to enhance Nepal’s resilience to climate impacts and ensure that these investments deliver sustainable benefits nationwide.
Key Goals of the Partnership
- Strengthen disaster risk reduction and management capabilities
- Build infrastructure that withstands climate-related challenges
- Support vulnerable sectors like hydropower to mitigate risks
- Promote sustainable development and economic growth through resilience building
Author’s summary: ADB, IDA, and Switzerland have joined forces in a three-year agreement to help Nepal enhance disaster risk management and build infrastructure resistant to climate change, aiming for lasting socioeconomic benefits.