The Nepal Austria Partnership Organization (NAPO) was established in 2007 by a dedicated group of social workers from Humla, a remote and underserved district in Nepal. As a non-political, non-religious, non-profit, and non-governmental organization, NAPO is committed to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by the communities in Humla. The organization is officially registered at the District Administration Office in Humla District, Nepal.
The Nepal Austria Partnership Organization (NAPO) was founded in 2007 by a dedicated group of social workers from Humla, a remote and underserved district in Nepal. For the past 17 years, NAPO has closely collaborated with its sister organization, Nepal Trust Austria (NTA), focusing primarily on maternal health and women's empowerment projects.
NAPO has a 15-year track record of successfully implementing women's development programs and health projects in partnership with local government institutions, women’s groups, and communities. The organization boasts a skilled and diverse technical team, including gender experts, program managers, agriculture experts, and health workers. These team members are part of the community and have a deep understanding of women's development issues, as well as the technical skills needed to design, implement, and monitor effective programs.
Nepal Austria Partnership Organization (NAPO) works closely with its sister organization, Nepal Trust Austria (NTA). NTA is run by a group of dedicated volunteers and its Board, which is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the organization, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards, and overseeing fundraising efforts.
NAPO has implemented a health project at Simikot Hospital for a decade and conducted these projects for the betterment of the people of Humla.
The Nepalese government now allocates doctors, nurses, and midwives to Humla, which allows for a shift in focus towards addressing the social structures affecting health. Despite improved medical staffing, significant issues persist. Pregnant women are still expected to perform hard labor, leading to severe health problems such as uterus prolapses. Harmful cultural practices, like the banishment of women during menstruation and after childbirth, expose them to extreme conditions that cause frostbites, pneumonia, and infections.
In addition to its collaboration with NTA, NAPO is also a grantee partner of Women Fund for Nepal, receiving grants for various projects aimed at empowering women and improving community welfare. Since 2018, NAPO has been implementing the Mahila Avaz (Women's Voice) project and other women empowerment and protection initiatives in partnership with NTA, Tewa, and other organizations.
NAPO plays a crucial role in supporting women and girls during incidents of social violence, abuse, domestic violence, and gender-based violence. They provide safe shelters and medical care, offer psychological counseling and emotional support, and give legal assistance. NAPO also engages in advocacy, collaboration, and networking, and implements prevention programs involving men and boys to change harmful attitudes and behaviors that contribute to violence against women and girls. By implementing these strategies, NAPO provides holistic support to women and girls facing violence, helping them heal, rebuild their lives, and live with dignity and security.
Finally, we have achieved a good result from mushroom farming at Simikot. Thanks to the women and staff for their hard work and tireless efforts.