Habitat for Humanity International, Nepal

Welcoming More Volunteers !!

2011-12-01T14:06:00.015+05:30

The sky is clear blue; the rainfall has lost its way. The brightness of Autumn and the wait for winter, the clear Mountain View and the perfect weather makes it way for us to get busier for the Global Village Teams from October to November.

October –November was indeed the most eventful month for all of us at Habitat Nepal. The number of Global Village teams coming in and going out kept us busy, excited and it certainly moved us closer to our mission.

We hosted a total of 8 teams during October and November. To start was the 13 member Dutch group led by Don Van Dasler from October 15-22 in Morang. Their stay of one week was fun filled and very productive. Rajesh had a lot to learn and share after the build.

Dan Stowers led an 18 member team to Tikapur, Kailali from October 16-27. This experienced team leader was an asset to the team as well as the community and was successful in completing two houses and renovating two houses.

Mike Rodrique led a big team from Oct 28-Nov 11. It was a 25 member group who completed 4 houses within two weeks. The host coordinators Narayan and Sujit had an excellent time throughout the build and so did the team members.

To follows them was the team from HFH Knoxville who went to Kavre. It was a 14 members team led by Tom Pfalzer. They built two mud and stone houses and filled their stay with laughter and fun as well. Rima hosted the team and came back with a big satisfied smile.

Then, we had more exciting times coming. There were three teams arriving on Nov 6, 2011 and working till Nov 18. Steffan McNally from UK led a team to Morang from Nov 6-17. The ten member team built a bamboo house and left home with fond memories. Rajesh did an extremely good job once again.

Jennifer Isely led her team to Chitwan from November 6-18, 2011. It was a jovial 16 member team. They built a brick house there. Rashmi, the Host Coordinator returned home with a lasting friendship.

Suzanne led her 13 member to Pokhara and built 3 cement block houses. The cooperative team gave Habitat Nepal another big support and our host coordinator Sujit an eventful two weeks.

To end the busy times was an open team from UK. The 13 member team led by Andy Clarke from Nov 13-25 in Jhapa and hosted by Sandip was a good end to the October- November months.

To sum up, we built a total of 17 houses. Kudos to the team leaders and their fabulous team who made it all happen. Thanks to them for fulfilling the distant dreams of 17 families and bringing an impact in the communities and their lives. We would love to have you all again! J

Global Village : So far in 2011

2011-07-05T10:07:00.016+05:30

The Global Village in Nepal was at its busiest phase in the first half from January to June 2011. We hosted a total of 17 teams and built 39 houses within six months. The teams came from all parts of the world and worked in various areas speaking more of how we live in just one world. The houses in the Eastern parts were mainly built of bamboo. In Pokhara we built houses out of cement blocks and Kavre houses were built of bricks and mud. The volunteers built brick houses in Chitwan. With varied locally available materials and respectively different ways of building, the teams got a fresh experience in each area.
We got to see enthusiastic youngsters from international schools in Malaysia, Denmark and Canada having fun and learning how life can be at different places at the same time. Similarly, the teams from USA and Netherlands showed their expertise and gave us many things to learn about. The youth groups from Japan taught us that it’s possible to speak the language of love be good friends if you have a heart rendered to service.
All in all, every team left with fond memories, valuable experience and tons of stories to talk about. HFH Nepal also learned with each new team, about how to make the program more effective and provide an overall cultural and construction awareness. The host coordinators also had their share of learning experience.
It’s not just building houses that make Global Village teams different. It’s the whole process of working together, building bonds between people of very different walks of liking and finding it all worth working for in the end.
Let’s hope the second half of the year goes better than ever and we get more smiles everywhere…on the face of the home partners, the volunteers and all of us who thrive for it!

The Shadow of Everest

2011-05-18T12:40:00.004+05:30

The Shadow of Everest

It’s a difficult task to sum up 14 days of our recent Habitat for Humanity trip to Nepal, considering all aspects of work, tourism and play. Maybe it was the cultural observations we made; maybe it was the immense variety of people we encountered; maybe it was the landscapes and views that filled our eyes of a totally different world; maybe it was all of the above and so much more…
In looking for a way to best describe the feelings we all shared, I sought to embody all of the thoughts and feelings we conveyed through writing. Each member of our team was assigned with a daily document to catalogue what we saw, how we felt, what we experienced and even how we were changed. Using an online tool, I amassed these journal entries to create an interesting picture.

This graphic demonstrates the words we used most frequently in the largest font. This encompasses what was difficult to communicate about our experience since there is so much to share. Some words are obvious: names, flights, hotels, Everest and so on. But what I found interesting was the enormity of words like team and people. These two words seem to exemplify, at least in part, our trip. Because it was our goal to change the lives of people, most of whom we had never met and most likely will never see again. The first and maybe more obvious group we wanted to help were the people in a small village on the outskirts of Itahari in south-eastern Nepal. It was our intention from the start, in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity, to help those who needed it most, and in that way we succeeded beyond measure. We managed to complete two homes in a period of roughly 5 days, through cutting, chopping, cleaning and weaving bamboo and even getting down and dirty with some cow dung to plaster walls. It was with the hospitality of Nepalese people that we were also able to visit the monkey temple and a local school. We achieved a great deal in the short time we had and even better, got to thoroughly enjoy it.
Admittedly, we each grew as individuals, learning about what it feels like to be so far away from home, to trust your friends and team members and to help those who can’t help themselves.
Now, our visas have long since been marked, our boarding passes no longer needed, our legs finally unfurling from tight airplane seats, our jet lag subsided, our souvenirs collected, our aches and bruises mended, our hunger satiated, our regular bathing recommenced, our schoolwork begun… All of our experience, it would seem, has finished.
But that is the true beauty of having gone on this trip. It resonates in our minds, hearts and souls that whenever we see one another passing in the halls or have the faintest recollection, we are reminded of what could be simply 14 days, or a multitude of plane rides, or a five day workweek on the other side of the globe or… The trip of a lifetime in the Shadow of Everest.

Sukhbir Bolina
Team Leader
Canada
March in sunsari

Another milestone achieved…one step closer to the mission!

2011-05-02T15:21:00.003+05:30

The month started with our very first team from Malaysia. The youth team from international school of Kuala Lumpur built three houses in Kavre. The build went from April 1-6. It was interesting to see how the young group of 24 worked so hard and had fun at the same time.
The second build was an inspirational build too. The US Team to Pokhara from April 3-16 got three houses done too. With a mixture of build, cooking and fun, the team left with fond memories and lessons on living life to the fullest.

The team in Chitwan from USA completed yet another successful build from April 10-23. They proved how much they valued bringing change to other’s life by working under the scorching sun and making the home partner very thankful and happy.
To end such a great month, we had the Nepal clan team from Netherlands from April 23-30. This was the first team from Netherlands too and it was great they left Nepal with a long list of wonderful experiences and a promise to come back again.
All in all, all the teams and support staff deserve a big applause for putting in such great effort and let another month pass my where we completed a total of eight houses. I hope such times come by where we get to do more, achieve more. Let’s pray for it and move ahead!

March Builds 2011

2011-04-01T10:57:00.011+05:30

Two successful GV builds were hosted in the month

of March in Jhapa and Itahari respectively. Two

successful builds four complete houses and

a whole lot of happiness.

Jhapa House

The first build was Jack’s Team, very experienced and efficient. Without many instructions, the team was actually to get so much done without the mason’s assistance. And yes, it was great to see what a fun team it was. The build was coordinated by Nikita, Rajesh and Ekraj with an immense amount of support from Kanchana Village Bank. The home partners were equally great. It was heart touching how the volunteers and home partners used their own language but still communicated everything needed. All in all, the days between March 6-19 passed with lots of builds, happy faces, and cultural interaction.
Team Bolina was no less. The youth team from St. Johns accompanied by their two lovely teachers was really great. With singing, dancing, playfulness and a productive build, the team too got a lot of work done. Partners from Bipanna Mahila with host Rajesh put up an excellent job to give the kids, the home partners and everyone the best of times.
With a bit of hiccups, a whole lot of fun and another step closer to our mission to have home for everyone, the month of March was a great one… We hope April brings in more colors to everyone’s life!

Everest Build 2010, Nepal Volunteer Hand Book

2010-03-23T12:20:00.004+05:30

Everest Build 2010 Volunteer Hand Book is available now for all your queries :). Please see the link below:

Everest Build 2010 - Volunteer Hand Book

Everest Build 2010, Nepal

2010-02-02T10:59:00.012+05:30

Habitat for Humanity International Nepal will celebrate World Habitat Day 2010 at Pokhara with over 500 invitees, including corporate groups, representatives from Governmental and Non Governmental agencies and communities. On this auspicious event Habitat for Humanity International Nepal will also launch Everest Build 2010. This event invites all the interested around the world to join Hands Hearts to help families in Pokhara, Nepal build decent affordable Homes. This will bring reality to Habitat for Humanity's vision “A world where Everyone has a Decent Place to Live”. Everest Build 2010 will focus on building over 30 houses in a week with more than 600 national and international volunteers in a community near the beautiful city Pokhara. For details please see the links.

Everest Build 2010 Flyer
Everest Build 2010 - Sponsorship Package

Habitat Nepal with the Deputy Prime Minister of Nepal

2009-08-27T14:28:00.006+05:30

Deputy Minister receiving the drawing from RD Manager, Ms. Amrita Sharma Suvedi

Habitat for Humanity International Nepal handed over 5000 meter length drawing on Housing to the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Physical Planning & Works Mr. Bijaya Kumar Gachhedar on 24 August 2009 at Ministry of Physical Planning and Works, Singha Durbar, Kathmandu, Nepal.

The Longest drawing, a vision campaign on Housing to create awareness on the hearts and minds of the people was completed with the participation of over 4000 students and 1000 other people. The completed length of the drawing was done on fabric, has used 1800 liters of paint and 1000 brushes. Since the drawing was all on housing it has created an impact about housing on more than 30,000 individuals The longest drawing attracted the attention of many.

Habitat Nepal celebrated 5000th house milestone and 5001st House Ground breaking ceremony. 5000th House dedication took place on 12th July 2009 in the district of Jhapa amidst more than 2500 people. On 13th July, 5001st ground breaking ceremony was held in the district of Kavre and the corner stone was laid by the Member Secretary of Social Welfare Council. To mark this event a vision campaign in the form of longest drawing was held on 11th & 12th July 2009 in Jhapa.

People drawing their visions

HFHI-Nepal celebrates 5000th House Dedication and 5001st House Ground Breaking Ceremony

2009-08-12T14:57:00.014+05:30

Habitat for Humanity International - Nepal has celebrated 5000th house milestone and 5001st House Ground breaking ceremony. This main event is followed by many other sub events.

Event main features:

5000th House dedication

5000th House dedication took place on 12th July 2009 in the district of Jhapa amidst more than 2500 people. The 5000th house was declared opened by UN Habitat (ERSO program) Representative, Dr. Christian Schlosser from Nairobi. The house consists of two rooms and a toilet, costs NRs. 92,201 (US$ 1200) and is made out of bamboo and plastered with cement. The house will ultimately have a sitting room and a kitchen added.

5000th house dedication - opening speech by Dr. Christian Schlosser

Longest drawing on housing
The longest drawing, held in Jhapa, attracted the attention of many. The drawing was completed with the participation of over 4000 students and 1000 other people. The completed length of the drawing is 5000 meters (5Km) and was done on fabric, has used 1800 liters of paint and 1000 brushes. This has been brought to Kathmandu to be handed over to the Prime Minister and the Minister of Physical Planning and Housing.

Students drawing their own dream house

A local girl dreaming her own home

Since the drawing was all on housing it has created an impact on housing to more than 30,000 individuals, creating awareness on housing. This also has attracted media and has come on national television channels.

Rally

Rally on shelter needs and advocacy: mass participation

The rally on “Shelter needs and Advocacy” was organized. This rally was of about 40 minute walking from the Town hall of Dhulabari to the 5000th house with more than 2000 individuals taking part.

Gathering
After the dedication of the house and the rally the main celebration to mark the 5000th families assisted in Nepal was held at the town hall in Dhulabari, Jhapa. This was presided over by the Member Secretary of the Social Welfare Council, affiliated to the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Welfare. Additionally the event was attended by over 3000 individuals, representing UN-Habitat Nepal and Nairobi, Government of Nepal, Habitat for Humanity International, various national and local organizations, all our partner organizations and large members from the Village Banks. It was unfortunate that the Hon. Speaker Mr. Subash Nembang could not attend the celebrations as the chief guest due to political issues in Kathmandu.
During this gathering the souvenir book that contained messages from the Prime Minister and the government officials, messages from Habitat International and other relevant organizations, was inaugurated. Additionally the CD of the theme song on Habitat was also inaugurated.
Three cultural dances from local schools added more color and entertainment to the program.
The responsibility for organizing the event was undertaken by our partner, Hatemelo Seva Samuha.

5000st House Ground Breaking Ceremony
On 13th July, 5001st ground breaking ceremony was held in the district of Kavre and the corner stone was laid by the Member Secretary of Social Welfare Council on behalf of the Government of Nepal as the Prime Minister of Nepal could not attend the celebrations. The event was organized by ADRA Nepal. The event was attended by UN Habitat, USA Embassy, all implementing partners and the home partners of Kavre district.
One of the main attractions of the event in addition to the laying of the corner stone was the demonstration of the prefabricated bamboo housing. The miniature model was assembled in 20 minutes.

Hon. guests attending 5001st house ceremony

Dinner
On the evening of 13th July, a formal dinner was held for the Ambassadors and the Heads of INGOs in the Kumari Hall of Hotel de l’ Annapurna. It was co-sponsored by Omni Groups of Industries. The dinner started with a short welcome and a short introduction about Habitat Nepal, a short clip on the 5000th house dedication and 5001st Ground ceremony was also shown.
Informal talks with all the dignitaries were encouraged and the talks lasted though the dinner that started at 7 p.m. ended around 9 p.m.

The event concluded with great success and Habitat Nepal plans to double the number of families served within two years.

For more information:

http://www.habitat.org/ap/news/2009/07_24_2009_Nepal_Celebrates_5000_House_Breaks_Ground_For_5001.aspx#P1_15

Habitat for Humanity: Nepali Multiplier Effect!

2009-02-09T09:46:00.002+05:30

"Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it." Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832), German dramatist, poet & novelist

Ms. Bibi Khantung, 45 yrs, of Morang, Nepal expressed “I am considered ‘untouchable caste’ and excluded from the community. But when the Habitat volunteers came to my house and worked for more than a week, now people in the community know me. Now I become popular in the community and they visit my house and ask me several questions about volunteers. I feel very proud the Global Village International volunteers worked so hard on my house. Also now my house is named as International House.”

Habitat for Humanity likes to say we build more than houses, “we build communities!” But really, what happens is even more than that: it’s the Habitat multiplier effect! Global Village team members contribute more than just their time; they leave behind a lasting legacy and take away more than just memories.

Bold Geniuses at Work
Teams have an important long-term impact on the home partners and also on wider community. This past fall, SOS Children’s Village, a Habitat partner NGO in Nepal, hosted a Global Village team from the Shanghai American School. After getting back to their own community, one of the student volunteers reported, “The Global Village effort showed us that we can all help in our community. We have now formed a local volunteer group among our own students and have already helped other home partners build their homes and will continue to help others. Thank you to Habitat for bringing the volunteers and showing us how to work together in our own community.”

Over the past 14 months we have reported on Global Village team’s experiences in Nepal. Based on the emails we receive from people after they return home and the number of team’s re-booking for another visit we can conclude the program is a big success. But what about the impact on the home owners once the volunteers leave? Do 5, 6 or 10 days of a volunteer team’s effort have a greater effect than just the Stone, bricks, mortar and bamboo they leave behind?

It Takes a Village
Having people from different cultural and religious backgrounds invest their time and effort in homes owners provides families with a deep sense of acceptance and a greater position in their community. Habitat for Humanity International Global Village trips to Nepal give participants a unique opportunity to become active partners with people of another culture. Team members work alongside members of the host community, raising awareness of the burden of poverty housing and building decent, affordable housing worldwide. As partners, teams members help build a true global village of love, homes, communities and hope!

Sometimes when a Global Village Team starts a project in a village, the villagers are confused. “What could just a few volunteers do in such a short time?” However after staying for a week or more the locals have a different perspective. “I planned to finish my house in two months but when the volunteers came we all worked and finished the house in one week. I realized I also saved lots of money in labor costs and now I can buy furniture and household things to make my family more comfortable,” said by 40 yrs old Ms. Gita Danuwar, Kavre.

After staying for a week or more there is a bond between volunteers and communities. Volunteers and home partners exchange their love, feelings and even gifts. The people from the whole cluster gather and give a grand farewell with lots of garlands which tied a deep relationship between them. Communities where Global Village teams have worked now eagerly await the arrival of new teams and are excited about extending the Habitat for Humanity International program in their village.

Global Village team projects have received excellent media coverage in national and local media. This publicity has brought lots of requests from other communities to build their houses with Habitat’s help, and they are also enthusiastic to work with international people. Now, the news spreading from the Habitat work sites to other areas of Nepal bringing lots of demand from the community not only to get support to build houses but also to build local schools, public libraries etc. Especially community young people have started to express their interest and commitment to work with Habitat. Presently, Habitat is working in Terai southern regions of Nepal. But with the Habitat “Multiplier Effect” in full operation, we expect to be working in the hill and mountain regions soon!

Successes of 2007-08!

2008-09-18T10:03:00.012+05:30

Looking Back
HFHI-Nepal has had an extremely successful year having served 1733 families last year. In total Habitat has served 3332 families in Nepal so far. They have grown significantly during the past year by continuing to partner with local organisations, with hosting their first Global Village teams and by continued work on improving the technologies they use.

Habitat House built on Dec 2007

Habitat set up the Bamboo Enterprise for Habitat with funding from CIDA and HFH Canada. This will enable them to promote eco friendly technology by producing bamboo corrugated roofing sheets. Habitat also received support from Singapore and Korea (KOICA) for 120 and 450 families respectively. Habitat received tithes from US Affiliates and Malaysia.

Bamboo Factory Jhapa

In partnership with Caritas International and ADRA International, HFHI-Nepal has been able to provide training to over 1000 families to provide shelter. During the past year an advisory board was set up to provide counseling and advice to HFHI-Nepal.

Habitat has successfully hosted 4 International Global Village teams and 2 local teams, these teams were involved in the construction of houses as well as learning about Habitat and the work they do here in Nepal. Habitat had 8 international and 5 local volunteers working for them during the past year. Habitat developed a database of all the families that have helped thus far.

GV Teams

HFHI-Nepal has greatly benefited from the expertise of Barry Mackey, who assisted in leading the program for six months. Habitat was blessed by the visits of Wayne from HFH Canada, Patrick from HFH Singapore and Kyle from HFH-APO. Habitat assisted families that were tragically affected by the fire disaster in the Bhutan refugee camps, they partnered with UNHCR and LWF with funding assistance from HFH-Britain.

But above all of these achievements HFHI-Nepal has been blessed by God for providing volunteers both teams and individuals who have given their time, sweat, expertise and friendship in a bid to improve peoples lives here in Nepal. Habitat has also been blessed with good will and compassion from their donors as well as creative and innovative staff.

Habitat Homepartner & her family

Looking Forwards
Based on the success of last year and using the evolving fund to a greater extend habitat aim to serve over 2000 families in the coming year. Habitat will produce bamboo corrugated roofing sheets to house more families and facilitate user-friendly, cost-effective, eco-friendly, income generating technology. Habitat will introduce pre-fabricated bamboo housing that assembles quickly, especially as a proactive step towards disaster response. They will also assist families in producing sun dried bricks and straw bale and other cost effective, eco and user friendly technologies that would make housing affordable to needy families. HFHI-Nepal promotes the cultural heritage of Nepal by protecting and uplifting traditional yet architecturally advanced technologies.

Let’s join hands to assist many families bring smiles to their faces especially to the women and children- house/home means a lot to them.

We are motivated by the belief that when a family moves to a new house that night that family praise God no matter what their religion or belief is.
“Kingdom of God is not meat and drink but righteousness, joy and peace”

HFHI Nepal hosts GV three Korean Teams successively in Jhapa

2008-08-29T10:54:00.015+05:30

"Martin Luther King Jr. said,” Everybody can be great... because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love."

The Global Village Team of Habitat for Humanity International is an excellent way to serve the less fortunate community and connect with people across the world. Teams from the Republic of Korea have joined the people in Jhapa to work towards building better houses. Three consecutively Korean teams have helped build 5 houses in various parts of Jhapa.

The teams worked from July 10-24, July 24-31 and August 7-14, 2008. The first and the third teams worked under partnership with Samuhik Hatemalo Sewa Samuha and the second team worked with Samjhauta Nepal.

Team Members cutting, splitting bamboo and weaving bamboo wall

Everyone worked well despite the hot and humid weather to fulfill their endeavor to build homes for the community. Teams, alongside community members, home partners, Habitat staff and partner staff worked hard, cutting bamboo, splitting bamboos and weaving bamboo walls. As well as there time and effort, two teams donated money towards community service programs

The daughter of the home partner of the first team Monika Tamang 15 Yrs old shared, “Earlier, all my books would get wet and I would not be able to do my homework in the rainy days. I used to get punishments at school for not completing my task. It was all because of the leaky roof. These people have come all the way here and built a new house for my family. I will be able to concentrate on my studies finally. I am very thankful in this respect.”

The teams spent time with the community members and visited local schools, developing a lasting bond. The Nepalese and Koreans both leaned lots about each others cultures through the cultural exchange program.

The teams gave a lot to the community and were justly rewarded with a once in a lifetime experience. The teams helped Habitat continue its efforts to eliminate housing poverty worldwide.

The third team member Mr. Brian Oh expressed his experience, “The first thing that I saw in Nepal was cows walking in the middle of the road. It made me think about the worst condition of the country. But knowing the reality of the country and its poverty and adversity has made me compare it with my country. I am more determined to serve the people in need."

The month of June, July & August maybe the rainy season, but we were kept busy by the wonderful people of Korea, helping the people of Nepal. We hope that future GV teams can to serve the community so well and develop a lasting bond between countries.

Team 1

Team 2

Team 3

HFHI Nepal hosts Australian GV team in Morang

2008-05-23T14:03:00.006+05:30

HFHI-Nepal recently completed the hosting of a Global Village team from Australia on a 10 day build in Morang district, eastern Nepal. The 11 member adult team was based in Itahari district and worked in Salakpur, Morang on the construction of two houses.

Home partner and volunteers working together

Despite the hot and humid conditions the team worked very hard, undertaking a variety of work including bamboo collecting, cutting and weaving, mud plastering, cementing and foundation filling. The program was greatly supported by partner organisation, Nari Bikash, who helped manage the program and cultural activities and provided a delicious lunch each day. It was great to also have six local volunteers work together with the team each day.

“I loved interacting with the home partners and the rest of the community. I had a great experience learning the language and getting my hands dirty and seeing the product of our hard work.” Brianna, GV Team Member

Home partners, Sabita Nepali and Bibi Khantung and their families welcomed the team into their communities and their hearts and despite the language barriers, worked together with the team to help realise their dream of a new house. It was rewarding for the team to help finish Sabita’s new home and to hear how much this meant to her to have a decent place for her family to live. Bibi expressed: I was so happy when the team came, I did not expect so many people to help work on my house. It was so hot but they worked so hard. I will always remember them and how their sweat helped to build my dream home.

mixing mortar and passing

The team were also warmly welcomed by the social welfare and preservation society who shared their culture including some local dancing with the team, and also the local school whose visit was a highlight for the team. The team also took the opportunity to visit the view point at Bhedetar and visit the local bazaar. The women also had Nepali outfits made and looked great at the house dedication in all their colours.

The final day was full of emotions as the team were thanked by the community and home partners and Sabita’s home was officially opened. Following one final dance the team sadly departed, taking with them many new experiences and memories. The team returned to Kathmandu and completed their trip with some well deserved rest and recreation in Chitwan National Park, Pokhara and Kathmandu.

“Engaging with the locals was a profoundly moving experience. I learnt so much about communication with others and the experience has altered my perceptions and approaches towards people of other cultures.” Joel, GV Team Member

The Team

HFHI Nepal hosts American School of Dubai GV Team in Jhapa

2008-05-05T11:38:00.013+05:30

A Habitat worked by the team

Another group of enthusiastic youth volunteers from Dubai joined the HFHI Nepal Global Village Team from April 3- April 9 2008 in Satasidham VDC, Jhapa. The program was held in partnership with Sahara Nepal. There were twelve students were from American School of Dubai along with two chaperons.

The houses were made of bamboo wall, cement pillar, mud/cement plaster and CGI tin roofs .The volunteers worked on cutting and splitting bamboos and weaving bamboo walls. They also helped in mud and cement plastering for the wall. All in all, the team had a fruitful time working with the local volunteers, home partners, Sahara staffs and the HFHI Staffs.

Volunteers splitting bamboo, weaving bamboo wall and enjoying filtering sand for plastering

The teams learnt a lot apart from just building houses. Sightseeing and shopping in Kathmandu, local school visit in Jhapa and playing soccer game gave them a new experience about Nepal. The team also spent some days of rest and recreation in Chitwan and experienced the natural heritage of the country.

The entire team associated with Habitat had a truly rewarding experience. Sam Steinke, a team member, said "Today ,these home partners are entering in new house, being in a new house means starting a new life, new house may definitely bring the changes in their life ,we are so thankful to habitat providing us this opportunity to be a part of this life changing experience”

One of the home partners, Bishnu Chaudhary expressed his gratitude. he said, “I am so lucky because I got support from the volunteers coming from many countries of the world, If they had not helped me it would take more than twenty days as well as I might to pay more than four thousand rupees to complete this house, I am grateful to the Team because they finished all the work with in five days.”

The Team

Last of all, it was yet another wonderful experience. HFHI Nepal is waiting and working for more programs like this in the coming days.

HFHI Nepal hosts Shanghai American School GV Team in Itahari

2008-05-02T12:49:00.007+05:30

HFHI Nepal organized a Global Village Program for Shanghai American School from March 22-March 29 2008. 17 students and 2 teachers participated in the program which was held in Itahari Municipality, Sunsari. The program was held in partnership with SOS Children’s Village.

Volunteers enjoying weaving bamboo wall
The team helped to build 3 houses in total. Local volunteers from SOS, the HFHI staffs and home partners worked together with the team and created a splendid team based environment to work in. These houses are made of bamboo wall, cement pillar, mud plaster and CGI tin roofs. The last day of house dedication was an emotional moment where the home partners and the volunteers shared their gratitude and experiences.

Team Leader, Jacqueline Meijar shared, “It was an incredible time for us to get knowledge on cutting and splitting bamboo as well as weaving wall with bamboo. We got the opportunity to learn about the culture, community and the life of the people. We are taking not only these learning but also the love and care of the people to whom we met.”

One of the home partners, Tek Narayan Chaudhary also expressed his happiness on the occasion. He said, “One day my daughter (she is 15 yrs old) told me, her friends used to take her in their houses but she couldn’t bring them in her house because she did not have a good house”, This was great challenge for me. SOS, Habitat and the global village team took part on carrying my burden of building a good house, now my daughter can bring her friends in her house without any hesitation”

Home Partners and team working together

Apart from the daily work, the team also got a chance of cultural exposure and sightseeing in some remarkable places in Kathmandu. The team also enjoyed interacting with the local students of SOS. It helped them learn about the Nepali community which was a complete new environment for them. It taught them a lot more than just building houses.

GV Team member Jonathan Kao reflected “It was a great trip, and I really became more aware of the issues in the world around me. Seeing the conditions others lived in helped me be thankful for the privileges I have that I normally take for granted.”

The program’s success was due to the efforts of many people, with special thanks to SOS Children’s Village for their organization and excellent support before and during the program.

The Team

This Global Village program has opened new doors to HFHI Nepal. With the help of such programs, HFHI Nepal gets new opportunities to build houses and improve lives. The organization is looking forward to more participation from teams from around the world.

KOREAN GLOBAL VILLAGE TEAM VISITS NEPAL

2008-02-06T14:55:00.000+05:30

Habitat for Humanity International – Nepal was very pleased to welcome the Korean Global Village student team of 16 students and 1 teacher to Nepal in December 2007.They worked from 28 December 07 to 07 January 08. The team got an opportunity of magnificent exposure and experience by traveling and serving. They also left the organization with fond memories to cherish.

Volunteers enjoying the fruit of their labor
- A family assisted -

After a welcome introduction by HFHI-Nepal staff and a half day sightseeing tour where the team saw some of the stunning architectural and religious significant areas of the valley, the team boarded a plane to Bhadrapur in Jhapa district of Eastern Nepal. At the site, which was near Birtamode, the team was introduced to the home partners and met with staff from Hatemalo, HFHI-Nepal’s partner organization. After the site orientation and presentation on safety when working with the tools and bamboo construction materials the team started their work. The team had not worked with bamboo before but quickly learnt the skills required to prepare the material. Every day the team members, together with the home-partners, Habitat and Hatemalo staff and local volunteers worked hard to prepare the materials, weave the bamboo walls, and finish the concrete flooring. The work was not simple but the team hid the difficulties and worked with optimum effort. They started and ended their work with a prayer marking them all closer to the Lord.

Refining Spitted Bamboo Weaving Bamboo wall

On the final day a special house dedication ceremony was held where the participants shared their experience and thanked each other for their work. The home partners presented the team with Tokens of Love and the ribbons were cut to the two houses. The team was sad to leave the village as where the home owners sad to see them leave.

Home owner Kul Bahadur Thakuri, 75 years old male shared his feelings at the end of the program:

“Initially I had thought that only one person would come and assist only for a few days but unexpectedly a huge crowd came and helped to build my house. I have learnt from my 25 years of experience that bamboo housing is not an easy task. I was not sure if the volunteers could do the construction. But now, their work seems very professional and they are working very hard as if it is their own house.”

75 yrs old home Partner actively involved

His wife was also very sad to see the students leave:

“When you all come in the morning I feel light everywhere but when you leave I find darkness. Why don’t you purchase a piece of land and build a house here so that we can live together and I can see you forever.”

Apart from learning the construction techniques, the team accomplished in other fields as well. Despite many team members only meeting for the first time, strong friendship soon formed and the team worked very well together to complete the daily tasks. The team also visited the Swabodh Bal Bikash Kendra School where the students performed traditional songs and dance and the Korean team presented some of their own songs and Korean martial arts performance. All of the students greatly enjoyed the interaction. We were very pleased to receive a visit from the Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Narendra Bikram Nembang who was impressed by the volunteer’s work and thanked them for their contribution.

The Team

The volunteers’ effort was duly recognized and covered by the medial as well. Articles about their efforts were published in the local and national dailies like Kantipur national Daily, Mechi Times, Purbanchal, Bivechana, Jana Samshad and Samacharpatra. They were interviewed about their reasons behind coming to Nepal. The media persons themselves were impressed by the work the Koreans had put up. Moreover, the coverage by Nepal Television was also extensive and informative. All these published items were an appreciable gesture and further motivated everyone involved in the housing program. This is great testament to the students’ hard work and also the effort from the home partners and local volunteers.

It was an honor to have the Korean Global Village Team visit Nepal and work together on achieving Habitat’s goal of ensuring people to have a decent home to live.

A year that was: Highlights

2008-01-18T13:59:00.000+05:30

Every year, we start with better ways to enhance our performance and stronger objectives to help us achieve our goals. Habitat for Humanity International - Nepal also started the year 2007 with three basic strategies to be fulfilled: Shelter through Savings, Micro Finance Institutions (Save and Build), Research and Development. With these strategies in mind, the people at Habitat worked throughout the year to fulfill the desired aims.

The year ended with lots of achievements to feel proud of and look back on, lots of challenges to consider upon for another new year. Habitat for Humanity International - Nepal also went through a lot of changes. As we look ahead for another fresh year, we go through a series of events, achievements and experiences of Habitat.

Habitat highlights

The organization completed its 2086th house at the end of December 2007
The organization worked with Samjhauta Nepal, Samuhik Hatemalo Sewa Samuha, World Vision International, Adventist Development and Relief Agency, Canadian Architects’ Legacy Fund, Lumanti, SOS Children’s Village, Sahara Nepal, Jeevan Bikash, Nari Bikash and Juntara Social Development Centre throughout the year as partners. These organizations assist Habitat in construction and microfinance operations.
The former affiliates of HFHI Nepal in Surkhet, Kailali and Chitwan showed keen interest to work with the organization.
Mr. Barry Mackey from Canada led the organization for six months from July to December and proved to be a great leader and a valuable asset to the organization. We farewelled him on December 21, 2007.
Various National and International volunteers joined Habitat to help with the organization’s internal work. Mrs. Kate Breen from Australia joined as a full time volunteer in November for six months. She has been assisting on coordinating the Global Volunteers Program.
Habitat took the initiation to extend its work in the mid western and far western region.

Achievement highlights

HFHI - Nepal initiated the program of bamboo housing because of its durability and low cost. HFH Canada supported HFHI-Nepal in this project. CIDA approved the Grant of Bamboo laminates Micro Enterprises for South East Nepal. Peter Russell, a volunteer from Habitat Canada led this project as the Program Manager.
The Canadian Architect’s Legacy Fund has given a fund of US $ 15061.51 followed by an additional fund of US $ 25000.
HFHI, Nepal received recognition for promoting Bamboo housing technology as a cost effective housing tool in Nepal and won the HFHI Clarence Jordan Award for the year.
Habitat Nepal was also recognized for its endeavor to encourage micro financing organizations. It was the runner-up in Koinonia Award for innovation in mobilizing financial capital.

Activity highlights

HFHI - Nepal organized two programs for volunteers to participate in our program:The first program was organized for Lincoln School in Kavre from October 8-12. The second program was for a group of three Nepali Architects in Jhapa from November 18-20.
The year ended eventfully with the first Global Village Team visit. A group of seventeen Korean students built two houses in Mechinagar, Jhapa. The program was held from December 28 to January 7, 08 and was very successful
42 families were assisted with water supply in Patalekhet VDC, Kavre
Various initiatives were taken to assist the flood victims of Makwanpur
A training program was held in Dhangadi, Nepalgunj for ADRA .
72 houses are in progress through ADRA/BASE.
Another training program was provided for Caritas International to work in Janakpur and the other five districts to help in cost effective construction methodologies.

After looking back on everything said and done, its now time to look for yet another beginning and give your best for the year 2008.

Group of Young Nepal Architects at work in Jhapa with Habitat……

2008-01-10T14:09:00.000+05:30

Railing Completed

Helping others lead a better life without any selfishness is a very noble task. Three architects from Nepal; Ashmita Thapa, Indira Manandhar and Pooja Gautam volunteered for HFHI in Jhapa. They worked from Nov 18-20th 2007 along with Samjhauta Nepal. They helped in building bamboo railings and weaving bamboo walls and learnt about the technology of HFHI-Nepal.
The young professional architects received great experience, knowledge and technique about bamboo housing through working with Habitat which will help them further in their work. They began their work in PrithiviNagar VDC, Jhapa. They learnt more about Habitat as an organization, its mission, working procedure and various other details. This gave them a clearer picture of how Habitat is working through community's involvement and microfinance to enable people to have decent houses to live in. They also learnt how Habitat has been motivating women to come forward participate in social activities. This gave them a clearer picture about how they were going to work with the community and motivated them more to work properly. Later, they visited the work site and talked to Habitat personnel and Samjhauta Nepal staff for all the technical details. The team then helped in building the bamboo railings. The villagers shared their ideas about how the railings should be built and they worked accordingly. They tried their best to make the most out bamboo and implement it for cost effective housing.

Making holes for Rails

Bamboo, if used properly can prove to be an excellent material for people with low income. It is strong and requires very low maintenance. Determined to help the community by keeping Habitat's mission in mind, the architects toiled a lot to weave walls and also intermingled with the local community. The villagers shared their gratitude and were impressed by the service offered by these young people. An old home partner woman shared, "you are god sent angels for me, and you made my dreams come true."

The work experience, they explained, was tremendously fruitful. They had learnt a lot through each activity. One architect shared, "We are really overwhelmed to see what Habitat is doing for the community. The women are getting a chance to participate actively and also build better habitats for themselves. “They gained more experience of construction through locally available materials. Also, they were overwhelmed to know about the developing status of women in the society. Apart from this; a poor family in Jhapa got a decent house to live in.

The Team

For Habitat too, it was a gainful experience. HFHI - Nepal is proud of young, versatile people showing interest to work for the organization. This will help the organization extend its service to wider areas. The architects left by sharing their views about cost effective construction. The team is now more motivated to work and serve the community. They have also shown additional interest to research on locally available materials through Habitat itself.

Partnerships enable development of Bamboo Laminated Housing Materials…

2007-12-25T12:53:00.000+05:30

HFHI- Nepal strives to be innovators in cost effective housing provision with one of the strategies using locally available materials wherever possible.

As part of our ongoing development, HFH-Canada has signed a Contribution Agreement with the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in order to help HFHI-Nepal to carry out its bamboo housing project Bamboo Enterprise for Habitat in southeast Nepal. The grant was signed on 23rd November 2007 and provides for CIDA to financially assist HFHI-Nepal through HFHI- Canada. With additional funding support from HFH-Canada and in partnership with Sahara-Nepal, HFHI-Nepal has subsequently initiated a new project to build Bamboo Enterprise for Habitat. The project is being developed as a micro financing enterprise which also aims to develop bamboo as a cost affective, environmental friendly and durable tool for housing.

Bamboo for weaving mats

The project was initially conceived by HFHI Nepal and was assisted by the Canadian Architects’ Legacy Fund. Further support is committed by the Canadian Architects’ legacy Fund to implement the program through the architectural design of the factory and the financial support to house more families in Nepal with more than thousand numbers of women will be benefited.
The enterprise will involve the weaving of hundreds of bamboo mats that will then be delivered to the factory to be built north of Chandragardi. Employing about 25 people per shift the factory will laminate the mats into corrugated roof panels using resin to stick them together. The process requires a large hot press together with other equipment which is currently being manufactured in Calcutta, India. The project aims to help the community generate more income through these micro financial institutions with their own participation. Through micro financing institutions, the project also aims to empower and activate women in its processes. This will develop the community and also help in poverty alleviation. Delivery of the factory equipment is expected in April 2008 and all being well, we can look forward to the start up of operations in July 2008.

The support from CIDA, HFHI Canada, and the Canadian Architects Legacy Fund and the partnership with Sahara-Nepal has given HFHI- Nepal a chance to take a big leap forward and pursue great innovation. HFHI- Nepal is extremely thankful for this assistance to all and looks forward to working together on moving these projects forward.

“As Project Manager I have been very encouraged by the team work that is evolving to create what will be a unique not-for-profit enterprise to put much superior roofs over the heads of people who have such a need for better housing.” Peter Russell - Volunteer Engineer from Canada

Once again Lincoln School joined Habitat to assist families in Kavre, Nepal…

2007-11-08T15:31:00.000+05:30

HFHI Nepal, in its efforts to build better habitat successfully, carried out its Volunteer program with Lincoln School for the second time. It was a five day program held October 8-12, 2007 at Patalekhet VDC, Kavre District. Twenty five students, five teachers, the Habitat team and the local community participated in this endeavor. Four houses were built and everyone worked in groups. The students were from the tenth grade and the program was a part of their annual Explore Nepal program. The program was not only successful in its efforts to build better habitat and serve deprived families but it also gave a broader perspective to the young minds. It helped them understand better the essence of selflessness and the joy one gets by helping others. Therefore, it was motivational and was an added encouragement for them to help society more.

The participants were mostly students but the presence and active involvement of teachers, leaders of the community and HFHI-Nepal staff made students more enthusiastic and motivated to contribute their valuable time to the community.

The team stayed at Mirabel Lodge in Dhulikhel which was half an hour away from the work site. The team was formally welcomed by the local community. The selected site is a hilly area full of ups and down but this did not deter the team of international students from working with a spirit of enthusiasm.

The added value to the program was the uniqueness of the schedule which was prearranged with R&R activates, like a visit to a religious place, arranged outdoor game as well as a cultural program. Therefore, the schedule of the program did not only consist of monotonous construction work but the above recreational activities now and then set to make them fresh and to have more interaction with the local community.

volunteers enjoying passing mud, carrying stones

The daily work consisted of different kinds of construction like digging foundation, carrying/passing stones, mixed/passing mud, carrying timber, carrying bucket of water etc. Some volunteers also got the new experience of building walls.

On the second day, the team visited Namo Buddha as a part of recreation after their work. This gave them an opportunity to visit one of the biggest stupas of Nepal and this as another opportunity to know about the other faiths.

On the third day, the students of Lincoln played a football match with the local students of Patalekhet. This was a fun experience for everyone.

On the fourth day, the locals of the village presented a cultural show for the volunteers’ team. This taught the students yet another aspect of the cultural life of Nepalese.

On the fifth day, the volunteers were given certificates as a token of appreciation. This was a motivational factor for the team to work harder and better. The participants felt proud of themselves because their work was extensively admired.
The team also visited all the houses of the home partners’ families. The community gave a farewell and thanked the team for their efforts for contributing their valuable time, energy to affect a change and helping them by building houses. Similarly, the students paid their respect to the community who had shown their love, care and support to them while admiring their work. The opportunity for the students to learn of the village lifestyle of Nepal was most valuable. Moreover, both the local and student teams shared their feelings and it was an emotional moment to observe.

From Daniel, a student at the Lincoln school, “It was a lot of fun working with and getting to know the local community. It was fun to play football with the local school”

Namgyal Lama from Lincoln says, "I think it was an excellent experience outdoors and I think I would love to live here after my retirement and someday I would love to build my own house and put my print in it"

Sita Lama a Home partner added, “It was really a wonderful experience for me working with international people who I had never met in my life and I am feeling proud that these 14-15 years old, very young students built home for me. So I have to preserve my house as they have contributed their sweat in this house”.

Additionally, the common feeling was, "It was great; we had lots of fun, learned new things, gained new experience and helped the people. we really liked digging."

group picture after farewell

Not only the volunteers, the home partners also had a very wonderful experience. Four houses were built for the community. This process had the effect of getting all members of the families to work together. On the other hand, they got a chance to work as a team with people from a different part of the world. The volunteers too explored a different aspect of Nepali people and lifestyle. Such programs indeed develop the society. It was also heart touching to see the volunteers tolerate the hardships of the work with the aim of helping the society. Notwithstanding a previous injury, one of the teachers’ from the school still volunteered to help; it did not stop him working even though he was in pain. After all, the pursuit of humanity drives our emotions on one way or the other and we work for it. Students of the Lincoln school were also very generous and donated an amount of US $1,000.00 as a local contribution to HFHI-Nepal in addition to the construction tools to the home partners.

Therefore, this program initiated by HFHI-Nepal was a wonderful experience for many. Firstly, it developed the community with their active participation. Secondly, it helped young minds learn about the Nepali culture. It also encouraged them to help more and serve more. For Habitat, it was, above all, a worthy achievement and encouragement. It was a matter of pride for the community as well to work interculturally in their local environment.

HFHI-Nepal Honor with Clarence Jordan Award

2007-11-08T15:06:00.000+05:30

It feels good when one’s efforts are admired. We feel encouraged to work more extensively and enthusiastically. Similarly HFHI-Nepal got its recognition for its constant effort to build better habitats. This took place in The Asia Pacific Housing Forum 2007 in Singapore. Many counties participated and Nepal made a distinct mark at the forum. Country Representative Mr. Aruna Paul and Senior Advisor, Mr. Barry Mackey participated in the program on behalf of HFHI-Nepal.

Award won in Singapore and re-celebrated in Nepal

Nepal won the 2007 Claren Jordan Award for innovation in housing and human settlement opportunities. It was awarded with an amount of US$ 20,000. Nepal was chosen as the winner among six nominated countries for its contribution in developing cost effective, durable and environmentally sustainable methods of building houses with locally available materials. Habitat has worked hard to prove the point that bamboo is an effective material with which to build houses; a fact that is not widely accepted in the local areas. It proved that bamboos are cheap, locally available, cost effective and durable enough to withstand earthquakes.

Habitat for Humanity International Nepal is grateful to the Canadian Architects’ Legacy Fund that has been helping to promote the technology by creating a fund amounting to US$25,000. The Canadian International Development Agency through the efforts of our sister organization Habitat for Humanity International-Canada is assisting us in setting up a Bamboo Corrugated Roofing Sheets Plant in the Eastern Nepal, Jhapa. Home partners have contributed to this effort largely by sharing the traditional wisdom and expertise of weaving bamboo.

Furthermore, Nepal, at the same Forum, was rewarded as the runner-up in the 2007 Koinonia Award for innovation in mobilizing financial capital Such awards are precious motivators for the HFHI Nepal team to come up with better ideas and approach in new places.
We are thankful to Samjhuata Nepal, Samuhik Hatemelo Seva and the other partners for working closely with us to introducing Housing Micro Finance in Nepal.

No doubt, the recognition received through the Clarence Jordan Award and the Koinonia Award will be a further enhancement to be more creative and innovative to reach more families to make housing affordable to the poor and thus enhancing their life experience.

The award money will be used as a leverage fund to assist 236 more families affected by floods and to facilitate cost effective construction technology to the other partners, both for permanent shelter at a less cost and for transitional shelter for those affected by disaster as the first response.
The cost of construction for permanent shelter for a 330 square foot home ranges from NRs. 39,000 to 63,000 (US$ 615 to 990) and for transitional shelter from NRs.12, 000 to 18,000 (US$ 190 to 280).

A new initiative of Bamboo Housing by HFHI-Nepal

2007-08-07T14:35:00.000+05:30

Habitat’s constant effort to help the community taught the organization a new technique of Bamboo Housing to grasp and enhance. Bamboo housing was introduced in Nepal in 2005. HFHI, Nepal realized the local application of bamboo into housing in a cost effective manner from the community itself. This motivated Habitat to further promote the technology and help people build decent habitats. For this purpose, Habitat initiated the program of bamboo housing. .Canadian Architects’ Legacy Fund also volunteered in the program and learnt a lot about the technology. The house is built by weaving six bamboo strips plastered with cement or clay for the walls of a house. Six bamboo pillars support the roof and the walls providing added resistance. Some of the houses of Habitat’s aim to build 20,000 houses by 2012 using low cost techniques will use this bamboo housing technique.

Working after being trained by HFHI-Nepal

Bamboo housing technique was adopted not only because bamboo houses look nice or because they are warm and cozy. It has various technical benefits as well. Bamboo is indigenously available in the southern part of Nepal. When raw materials are easily available, it requires less trouble to assemble and thus makes it more affordable and portable to apply bamboos into housing. Apart from having a private house strong enough to resist earthquakes or strong winds and storms, a bamboo house owner will be helping the environment as well. Bamboos are known to be eco friendly as they are helpful in
reducing the green house effect. No doubt, this new program will be beneficial from a wide range of prospects. Bamboo housing, therefore, is being promoted for the following attributes; affordability, ease of assembly, portability, durability and cultural acceptance. This has been experienced by some of the house owners as well who share their story about how their lives have taken a new turn.
Nar Kumari Limbu is one such benefic of this housing program. She is a 22 year old woman from Satishdham- 7, Jhapa. She lives with her husband, Rabin Limbu, a mason, and three daughters. The new house built from the combination of efforts by Sahara Nepal, Habitat for Humanity and the community’s effort enhanced by the Juntara Village Bank has given her brighter days and fresher hopes. The house was built a year ago. She shares her story about the past and the present:-
“Our family has had a very painful past. Due to political conflicts, we were moved out from our native Taplejung village. We had no land or a house of our own so we had to live with our cousins in Jhapa. Too many people in the same house was very difficult to adjust. The kitchen was also in the same room so the smoke coming out had started to degrade our health. My husband was a mason and we depended on his earning for our living but it just wasn’t enough. He went to a gulf country to earn more and during those times I had to struggle hard to raise my three daughters. I also started working as a wage earner in farming. Finally, my husband returned and we were able to buy a piece of land. We also collected some bamboo, sand and timber but building a house was way out of thought. We then heard of the housing Program initiated by Habitat for Humanity along with our Juntara Village Bank. I managed to collect 18000 from my savings and Habitat helped me assemble an additional 18000. With that money and the materials available, we were finally able to build up a new house. It has been a year and we finally have a comfortable life.”

Habitat house of Nara Kumari Limbu

“Having been displaced form our native house, this magnificent house is far beyond a dream come true. It is beautiful and comfortable and many people who drop by are full of admiration. Not only am I more encouraged to keep it clean but it had also motivated me to help the community build better housed of this sort. The kitchen and the rooms are separate so it is more hygienic as well. The underground water system is equally convenient. Moreover, I am more aware of the advantages of bamboo housing. It has improved our health conditions as it brings more warmth. Moreover, its strength makes us feel more safe and secured. We are not scared of any strong winds or heavy rainfall. Habitat has also made us aware that it is eco friendly. This makes me feel happy to have realized that I have helping the environment as well.”
Not only has our habitation, the overall living standard has bettered considerably. I have taken training from Group Level Orientation and Village Level Orientation. This has enabled me to work efficiently in a group and I am also aware of eco friendly housing techniques. I am the member of the community’s co-operative and I attend weekly meetings as well. I am also the member of the saving group formed by Sahara and Family Selection and Construction monitored by Habitat and Sahara. Previously, my husband was a local mason and I was into farming. Due to poor economic condition, we were living in a hand to mouth situation. Now I have trained myself in making candles and I earn more by selling them. My husband is again in the gulf countries. Better earning has encouraged saving and we are now able to educated our children better. This house has certainly enhanced our pride and dignity.”
Nar Kumari shared her joys and Habitat was really joyful to hear about her success. It was also a great pride for Habitat when media recognized Habitat’s noble task. An article regarding the bamboo housing program was published on Dec 1, 2006 in the national daily, “Purbanchal Rastra Dainik”. This very article showed how bamboo housing has given rise to a new mode of shelter to Bhumika Rai and also the future prospects of the program. The article is also posted in the blog.
Another article regarding the same program was also published in the Nepali paper, “Samaya” on December 14, 2006. The article also discussed about similar roles of bamboo and also the viewpoint of many social workers. Habitat’s new method of building better houses climbed up one more step through this new program of bamboo housing initiated by Habitat, Nepal. It’s through the support from everyone around the world that we will be able to build better living.

Shelter to the Poor

2007-08-07T14:15:00.000+05:30

Published in the Eastern Daily “Purbanchal Rastriya Dainik” December 01, 2006

Translated Version:
Life seems to have taken a brighter turn and her happiness is beyond limits for Bhumika Rai who is out of words for the security she received from her new house. The Habitat for Humanity International along with the villagers and volunteers helped her build this entirely new bamboo house.
40 years old Bhumika living with her husband Hukum and two children feels her life has changes completely. Having lived a low income oriented poverty stricken life all these years she is extremely excited for having a decent and safe place to live in built entirely with bamboo from roof to floor.
The house made for Bhumika is the first house built entirely with bamboo. Bamboo is certainly an efficient material for building houses. It is strong and durable up to 30 years and also resistant to seismic waves and high winds. This also helps in controlling global warming. Thus, this new strategy of bamboo housing will prove to be very beneficial.
Although the materials for building the house this time was provided by India, Nepal has planned to develop in this regard as well. The total investment will add up to 5 crores and each house will cost about NRs. 63000. Aruna Paul, The Country Representative of Habitat shows great assurance in this regard.
This is not only felt by Bhumika but thousands of other people who now have shelter and warmth in their houses. Kamala Gajmer is speechless as she had never thought about getting a chance to live in such a comfortable house assisted to be built by Habitat. Not only in Ilam, Habitat has also worked in Kavre, Morang and other districts and has given home to the homeless. Habitat has been working with Samjahuta Nepal and Juntara Samudayik Bikas Kendra of Ilam along with the proud home owners to build a better habitat in the district. The proud home owners deserve a good pat on the back for their sweat and determination. There is no question about the assistance given by Habitat. Yet it serves to maintain the independence of the home owners by following a micro credit system where they pay loans at very low interests.
The Program Manager of HFHI Asia Pacific, Kayal Scott expressed joy as he saw people with an improved living standard. The Country Representative of UNHCR, Abraham, expressed how building around 1500 houses and providing safety 6000 people is an achievement that needs some serious praise. He also spoke about how better living standards help in maintaining peace. Mahendra Giri of Sahara Nepal spoke of Habitat’s future plans. With the belief that every human being needs a decent place to life in, it has planned to build 1800 more houses which will play an important role in alleviating poverty.
Somnath Sureli of Journalists Association, Nepal expressed that Bamboo housing has great prospects and it must be seen that bamboo housing is thoroughly looked upon and developed. William Marsan, Shankhar Pradhanaga, Pankaj Bikram Nemang, Devi Kattel , Charles Pandey, Sandesh Parajuli of Samjhauta Nepal also expressed similar views and suggestions. The programme was managed by Amrit B.k. and Lila Thapa was honoured as the Chief Guest.

Heartfelt thanks to Mr. Asia Chang

2007-07-30T15:15:00.000+05:30

Asia - last day with HFHI- Nepal appreciating souvenir

Asia who used his travel time to help HFHI Nepal and spent 14 days working with the staff of HFHI Nepal to develop a much needed a “blog”.

Asia…Thank you very much for your volunteering with us from 18 June to 05 July 2007.

We appreciate for your support and assistance in developing a "blog" for HFHI-Nepal, which provides a dynamic view of the organization. This will enable HFHI Nepal to post the information on day-to-day or month-to-month activities on the projects and their successes. This is one of the best ways of on line publication of HFHI-Nepal news.

We hope your hard work on developing a “blog” will make a big difference in fulfilling the needs of the less fortunate people in the community by making a gate way to bring up lots of volunteers to Nepal.

Asia-explaining about a "blog" to HFHI-Nepal staff

On behalf of HFHI, we extend our gratitude for all your work and support. We are also grateful with your contribution in marketing our Programs. We hope you enjoyed working with us and looking forward to seeing you again!

Last but not least, we would use this opportunity to salute Asia for his volunteer efforts to assist us.

Story of a Homeowner

2007-06-26T10:55:00.000+05:30

Situation in Old House
Bhagawati Hamal’s story is very similar to many other families in the Kavre area of Nepal. At age 48, her family income comes from tomato farming on her 7 ropani (~3,600 sq. meters) piece of land. She had a small one-story shack of a house with a hay roof before Habitat for Humanity (HFH) helped finance a new house. She lived in this old house with nine members of her family, cattle, and the kitchen all in the same room. She describes her story:

Bhagawati Hamal in front of a wall of her house.

Living in the old house, we had to be constantly mindful of windstorms, fires, wild animals, floods, and landslides. At the old house there was even a tiger attack killing a goat. We cried to seek help from our neighbors, but that simply irritated them. So, our life has been very difficult for us. We were always afraid of leaving a long way for work because our old house was unsafe threatened by wind, fire, rain and theft.

In the rainy season, the water used to leak from the roof. We remember days when we couldn't even sleep entire nights during a storm for fear of the house falling down due to the heavy rainfall. When rainwater leaked from the roof, we used pots to collect water to prevent the floor or bed from getting wet. If the rain was very heavy, we even had to cover ourselves with mats and sacks to keep ourselves dry.

We had no access to information and communication when we lived at the old house. It was very difficult for the children to study in this environment. My children were really pushing to build a new house. But I was crying in the corner because we did not have enough money.

Bhagawati Hamal’s old house (left) and new house (right)

After the New House was Built
My first words are to say, “Thanks to Habitat.” Habitat provided the loan, which resulted in abounding joy in my family. Our new house provides my family with dignity. It indicates this is good environment to do work and produces new goods to earn money for a better life. Of course, it is a fact that we still have to pay the mortgage. But the system makes it easy for us to pay. I feel as if I had gotten this house for free. That is why we felt the Habitat housing program is great for us. In the past, I have taken money from villagers, women groups, and relatives. They had charged 24% interest when the money is returned.

We also have electricity. Information and communication is a human right and after building the new house we have access to information and communication. Now days, we listen the radio and we are going to buy a television soon.

Bhagawati Hamal talking with Habitat-Nepal staff member Bal Devi Pokhrel.

We succeeded in building a new house and we are pleased with the Habitat support. Now, we don't have to be afraid of windstorms, fires, rains, and floods. In the present situation we feel safe from all types of problems. There is also a good environment for the children to study. We actually feel that we have dignity now and that we have built a better relationship with the rest of society with our new house.

Welcome!

2007-06-18T15:10:00.000+05:30

Welcome to the Habitat for Humanity International, Nepal blog. This is the first post about the exciting activities and opportunities here at the HFHI-Nepal office. The purpose of this blog is for our organization to better educate the rest of the world about the housing needs of Nepal. Our organization is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing and homelessness worldwide and to make affordable shelter a matter of conscience and action.

On this blog we hope to share with you:

Nepal's housing needs
the methods and technologies we are employing to build houses here
our micro-financing methods to create sustainable communities
the accomplishments of our organization
and the future plans of our organization in Nepal

We look forward to hearing your comments and feel free to email us with any questions.