UNFPA, the sexual and reproductive health agency of the United Nations, and Manakamana Darshan Pvt. Ltd. have entered into a formal Cooperation Agreement to promote greater awareness on gender-based violence [GBV] and to strengthen community engagement through a strategic public-private partnership. 

This agreement seeks to integrate messaging, training, and employment support into the operational ecosystem of Manakamana Cable Car, one of Nepal’s most prominent tourism platforms, in order to contribute to national GBV prevention and response efforts.

This agreement was signed in Kathmandu on 20 May 2025.On behalf of UNFPA, Young Hong, the Representative for Nepal, signed while Yeshu Shrestha, Director of Sales and Marketing signed on behalf of Manakamana Darshan Pvt. Ltd. 

Under this partnership, both parties have committed to jointly implementing a set of advocacy and capacity-building activities over a two-year period, with a shared objective of creating safer and more inclusive public spaces, while empowering women and girls with critical information on gender based violence including referral mechanisms and opportunities for reintegration.

As part of the collaboration, the cable car service will integrate awareness raising messaging on gender based violence into various public touchpoints, including ticket stubs, digital kiosks at ticket counters, and posters in high-traffic areas. 

These platforms will be used to disseminate information about survivor rights, available services, and emergency contact details, ensuring that every visitor receives timely and potentially life-saving information during their journey. Visual materials will be tailored for broad accessibility, including for those with limited literacy.

UNFPA will also provide comprehensive training to all staff of Manakamana Cable Car, focusing on principles of protection from sexual harassment, procedures for reporting misconduct, and the creation of safe and respectful environments for all passengers and staff. This capacity-strengthening initiative aims to embed safeguarding measures within the tourism and transportation sector and reinforce zero-tolerance policies on harassment or abuse.

In addition to awareness and training, the partnership will explore economic empowerment pathways for survivors of gender based violence. By linking with local service providers and allied businesses, the initiative seeks to facilitate dignified employment opportunities for survivors, promote inclusive hiring practices, and contribute to long-term reintegration through livelihood support and social inclusion.

Speaking at the signing, Young Hong emphasized the role of the private sector in advancing UNFPA’s mandate. “This partnership demonstrates that when businesses align with values of dignity, equity, and protection, they can become powerful agents of change. Jointly we are creating pathways to protection and opportunity for women and survivors of gender based violence,” she stated.

Yeshu Shrestha reaffirmed Manakamana’s commitment to gender equality and community responsibility, noting that the company is proud to partner with UNFPA in fostering safe spaces for women, girls, and all passengers who use their services daily.

This collaboration represents a new model for corporate social responsibility in Nepal—one that goes beyond symbolic engagement to embrace meaningful action in support of national GBV prevention goals and the broader transformative agenda of the United Nations.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
ADITI ARYAL
COMMUNICATIONS ANALYST
UNFPA IN NEPAL
9801056006