ADB, IDA, AND SWITZERLAND PARTNER TO STRENGTHEN NEPAL’S DISASTER RISK MANAGEMENT AND BUILD CLIMATE-RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE

ADB, IDA, and Switzerland Partner to Strengthen Nepal’s Disaster Risk Management

Kathmandu, Nepal (5 November 2025) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB), the World Bank Group’s International Development Association (IDA), and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) have entered into a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement reiterates their joint commitment to assist the Government of Nepal in enhancing disaster risk reduction and building climate-resilient infrastructure.

Increasing Climate Threats in Nepal

Nepal is increasingly vulnerable to climate-related hazards such as floods, droughts, landslides, and glacier melting. These events result in significant human and economic losses and force communities to relocate. Sectors that depend heavily on nature, especially hydropower, which is crucial for Nepal’s economic growth, remain highly exposed to these risks.

Strategic 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.

“Through strengthened coordination and technical cooperation, ADB, IDA, and SDC aim to support Nepal in building resilience to climate impacts and ensuring that investments bring lasting benefits to people across the country,” added Arnaud Cauchois.

Key Focus Areas

Disaster risk reduction and management
Development of climate-resilient infrastructure
Support for nature-dependent economic sectors, especially hydropower
Creating jobs and promoting sustainable economic growth
Enhanced coordination and technical cooperation among partners

This partnership underscores the urgent need for Nepal to adapt to escalating climate risks by strengthening its infrastructure and disaster preparedness efforts.

Author’s summary: ADB, IDA, and Switzerland have joined forces with Nepal to bolster disaster management and climate-resilient infrastructure, safeguarding vulnerable communities and promoting sustainable growth amid growing climate threats.

World Bank Group — 2025-11-06