A team of officials from the Department for International Development (DFID) under the United Kingdom government visited the districts of Nepal that fall within the Kailash Sacred Landscape Conservation and Development Initiative (KSLCDI) from 25 to 28 March 2015. Some local officials accompanied the team.

The objective of the visit was to observe KSLCDI progress in the pilot districts and to interact with local target communities and stakeholders about the scope and achievement of the Initiative. The team observed the Kailash Natural Resources Information Center in Gokuleshwor of Baitadi and interacted with Ritta (soap nut) and Nigalo (small bamboo) value chain groups.

The team also participated in an interaction program with district stakeholders at Khalanga, the district headquarters of Darchula. The program included a presentation by Api Nampa Conservation Area (ANCA) and discussion on the issues, challenges, and opportunities at transboundary level. The team also visited Khar – a pilot site within the ANCA – where interactions with Allo value chain groups, eco-club, and ANCA Council took place.

The team members appreciated the progress made by the KSLCDI in such remote areas, and said the visit was a fruitful learning opportunity. The team highlighted the opportunity the Initiative presented at transboundary levels.