Nepal Highlights Grassroots Women’s Entrepreneurship at South Asian Conference in Bhutan

On May 9, Nepal highlighted its progress in female-driven business ventures and eco-friendly tourism during the South Asian Women’s Conference focused on Women’s Economic Empowerment in Rural South Asia: Sustainable Routes. This event took place recently in Thimphu and was officially opened by Bhutan’s queen mother. The conference spanned over three days.

The gathering assembled policymakers, community organizers, and development collaborators to address issues related to women’s economic empowerment, the impacts of climate change, transnational difficulties, as well as strategies for fostering sustainable enterprises and tourism initiatives.

During a session titled “Components of Rural Tourism: Success Stories” at the conference, Shova Gyawali, who serves as the President of the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs’ Associations of Nepal (FWEAN), discussed Nepal’s progress in elevating rural women via traditional craftsmanship, collaborative enterprises, and female-driven tourism initiatives.

Related story

We aim to initiate a movement centered around social entrepreneurship.

President Gyawali emphasized FWEAN’s efforts after the earthquake in Sindhupalchowk, noting that women received training in traditional weaving techniques and were linked with market opportunities. She stated, “These women, who were previously displaced and marginalized from economic activities, are now successfully exporting Dhaka fabrics, handcrafted accessories, and natural remedies.”

Gyawali additionally talked about women-run homestays in Pokhara, Palpa, Ilam, and Mustang, where female business owners provide tourists with cultural insights. According to Gyawali, “Visitors arrive for the landscapes, yet they remain captivated by the tales and handicrafts crafted by these empowered females.”

She highlighted the triumph of the Made in Nepal Expo conducted in Melbourne during December 2024, which was launched by the city’s mayor. This two-day event spotlighted Nepalese women’s merchandise and garnered global recognition for their entrepreneurial spirit.

As Gyawali celebrated these accomplishments, she highlighted ongoing issues such as inadequate infrastructure, restricted financial resources, and the necessity for inclusive gender policies. She emphasized the importance of offering loan options without requiring collateral, improving market opportunities, enhancing skills training, and promoting digital literacy specifically for rural women.

She emphasized once again the importance of regional unity in supporting rural women and tackling climate change impacts. She stated, ” Genuine progress involves fostering respect and chances for every woman and each village.”

Published by HT Digital Content Services with authorization from Republica.

Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (

Syndigate.info

).