Kathmandu – MetLife Foundation has awarded a grant of US$ 120,000 to WWF Nepal to implement the “Joint Efforts for Ecosystem, Wellbeing and Alternative Livelihoods of Local Communities Based on Nature (JEEWAN)” project in Rajapur Municipality, Bardiya District. The initiative will support marginalized Sonaha and Tharu communities living along the Lower Karnali River basin, where recurring floods, riverbank erosion, and declining fish populations continue to threaten livelihoods and food security.
The one-year project is designed to strengthen climate resilience and improve economic opportunities for around 140 low-income households. WWF Nepal will implement nature-based solutions, including bio-dykes, green belts, and stream restoration, to reduce flood risks and protect agricultural land and settlements from inundation.
Alongside ecosystem restoration, the project will promote diversified and sustainable livelihoods by strengthening homestay-based eco-tourism, supporting livestock and poultry activities, and improving access to markets. MetLife associates are also expected to contribute through volunteering engagement, particularly in financial literacy, budgeting, and small business management training, further enhancing community capacity and long-term resilience.
By reducing dependence on declining fish stocks, the initiative will also contribute to the conservation of the Karnali River’s rich biodiversity, including endangered species such as river dolphins and gharials. The partnership reflects MetLife Foundation’s commitment to building resilient communities and enabling low-income populations to achieve greater financial security and well-being.
“As a company rooted in risk protection, we understand that real impact comes from prevention and preparedness. MetLife Foundation’s partnership with WWF Nepal allows us to go beyond our traditional role and support flood prone communities in Karnali with solutions that protect lives, restore ecosystems, and create sustainable livelihoods.” said Nirmal Kajee Shrestha, Vice President and General Manager of MetLife Nepal.
“We are delighted to partner with MetLife Foundation on the JEEWAN project. Having just concluded a project that strengthened community stewardship to protect otters and their riverine habitat in the same stretch of the Karnali River, where Nepal’s first fish sanctuary is also established. Through JEEWAN, we are thrilled to continue working with the Sonaha and Tharu communities of Rajapur to reduce flood risk through bio-dykes and green belts, while opening new livelihood pathways through eco-tourism, livestock support, and market access. We’re grateful to MetLife Foundation for investing in solutions that protect both people and the rich biodiversity of the Karnali River”, said Dr. Ghana Shyam Gurung, Country Representative of WWF Nepal.
