Rautahat:UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, has successfully developed a model for climate-resilient maternal and newborn healthcare in Nepal. This model is designed to ensure that frontline health facilities can continue life-saving operations even during severe climate disasters.
According to National News Agency RSS, the model was showcased during a policy dialogue and field visit at the Auraiya Birthing Centre in Ishnath Municipality, Madhesh Province. The event gathered government representatives, healthcare providers, and community leaders to assess successful adaptation models and plan for the expansion of climate-resilient health infrastructure to other vulnerable areas in Nepal.
Ms. Lila Pieters Yahia, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nepal, emphasized the impact of targeted investments in maternal healthcare during her visit to the Auraiya Birthing Centre. She highlighted the significance of having qualified healthcare workers, which has built community trust and encouraged women to seek necessary care during pregnancy and childbirth.
The Auraiya Birthing Centre, situated in a flood-prone area, has been upgraded as part of a project funded by the Government of Japan. The improvements include a power backup system, medical waste management, and water purification units, among others. This initiative, implemented by UNFPA in partnership with Nepal’s Ministry of Health and Food Safety, also includes guidelines for long-term operational sustainability and a climate-adaptive health action plan.
Dr. Bashir Najeeb, UNFPA Deputy Representative in Nepal, stressed the importance of disaster-ready health centers, noting the impact of flash floods on healthcare access. Through the IMPACT project, supported by the Government of Japan, UNFPA aims to replicate these adaptation models across Nepal.
In a bid to enhance disaster preparedness, UNFPA has provided USD 100,000 worth of medical supplies and equipment to the Madhesh Provincial Government. The equipment will be distributed across five health facilities in Rautahat District to bolster emergency obstetric and newborn care.
Kaushalya Devi, Deputy Mayor of Ishnath Municipality, reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to maintaining healthcare continuity and coordination among various government levels to support these standards.
Since its inception in 2025, the Japan-funded IMPACT initiative has assessed 20 health facilities for climate risks, established 10 model climate-resilient health facilities, and developed nine climate-adaptive municipal action plans in Jajarkot and Rautahat Districts. The project’s framework serves as a guide for replicating climate-resilient health infrastructure across disaster-prone municipalities in Nepal.