Economic Sustainability (Theme I)

The Strategic Approach of WHR



WHR’s strategic plan (2019-2023) focuses on five themes.

Empowering women in the economy and closing gender gaps in the world of work are key to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Keeping in mind the contribution towards the Sustainable Development Goals, the economic empowerment of single women not only boosts productivity and increases economic diversification but also promotes income equality and other positive development outcomes. Single women's economic empowerment encompasses their ability to participate equally in existing markets, have control over their own time, lives, and bodies, and enjoy increased voice, agency, and meaningful participation in economic decision-making at all levels, from the household to international institutions. WHR has initiated the 'Aadhar Savings and Credit' program, which provides micro-credit (loans) to single women, enabling them to start their own entrepreneurship ventures or support other economic aspects of their lives. Through continuous lobbying and advocacy efforts over the years, WHR has successfully facilitated low-interest loans (2%) from Nepal Banijya Bank for single women who present a business plan.

The government has also introduced the "Youth Employment Program," which aims to connect single women with the government's economic development plan for sustainable livelihoods. Additionally, WHR Chhahari will provide training in various income-generating activities, enabling them to become independent entrepreneurs or form small groups. Over the next five years, this strategic plan aims to address the skill development needs of single women while also providing them with knowledge about savings systems, economic opportunities, and property rights. This initiative offers them the chance to achieve sustainable livelihoods. Furthermore, this theme assists in developing their business plans, establishing connections with the market for their products, and creating a Market Hub. Cooperatives will be established in different districts. The focus of this theme is to brand products made by single women and utilize various technologies for marketing purposes.