Kathmandu: FAO Nepal officially kicked off The Global Gathering Pastoralists Women 2026 in Kathmandu on May 26. The event was done in the presence of pastoralist women from Nepal and across the globe to exchange experiences, raise collective voices, and advance priorities for resilient, inclusive, and sustainable pastoral systems.
Gita Chaudhary, Minister for Agriculture, addressed the opening session where she emphasized the importance of recognizing pastoralist communities and women’s leadership in shaping sustainable livelihoods and resilient rural economies. She highlighted the Government of Nepal’s commitment to inclusive development and strengthening opportunities for women in agrifood systems.
Gunakar Bhattam, Vice Chair of the National Planning Commission, in his opening remarks underscored the need to integrate pastoralism, climate resilience, and social inclusion into national development priorities, noting that empowering women pastoralists is essential for achieving sustainable and equitable growth.
Ken Shimizu, FAO Representative for Bhutan and Nepal, stated, “Empowering women is central to building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agrifood systems. Women must be recognized as leaders, innovators, and rights-holders with equal access to resources, services, and opportunities.”
