Accountability towards informal settlers in Nepal

Street Drama Sparks Health Awareness in Rural Nepal

Access alone is not the only barrier to the utilization of health care services. In remote areas of Nepal, where people are still guided by superstitions and traditional beliefs, the use of reproductive health services remains a major challenge. In Jajarkot, a remote district of Karnali Province in western Nepal, poor maternal health practices, cultural restrictions related to menstruation, and limited access to water, sanitation, and hygiene have created significant health issues within the community.

To address these challenges, PHASE Nepal provided training to community members, students, and health workers on good hygiene practices, maternal health and nutrition, and menstrual health and hygiene etc. To reinforce learning and extend awareness to a wider audience, training participants performed street dramas in six different villages of Barekot and Kushe Rural Municipalities in Jajarkot. These performances reached 858 community members (69% women) during December 2025 and January 2026.

At the end of each event, community members were encouraged to ask questions, and the performers and organizers assessed the knowledge gained through the dramas. These events proved effective in reinforcing lessons from previous trainings. A participants shared that:

“The street dramas helped us learn even the smallest things that often go unnoticed. They also made us realize the importance of support from the people around us, something that our theories rarely emphasize.”

Similarly, a community leader noted:

“Trainings and street dramas like these play an important role in influencing community behaviour. Both ward representatives and community members are grateful to the organization for organizing such events, which can contribute to improving the overall health situation of our community.”

The dramas also addressed rarely discussed topics, such as taboos associated with menstrual health. These issues were presented in a relatable manner, with the aim of encouraging open conversation around previously forbidden topics within the community.

Conducted in the presence of Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs), teachers, and other stakeholders, the events helped community members better understand the roles these actors play in promoting community health. Through this initiative, the program aims to foster open dialogue on key health issues and guide community members on where to seek support when needed.

We sincerely thank all our supporters and ASIA for making it possible to reach vulnerable people in remote areas with much-needed support. With your continued partnership, we look forward to expanding our services and improving the health and well-being of rural communities across Nepal.

Dear Friends,

Following the devastating earthquake of November 2023, PHASE Nepal has been working in Barekot and Kushe Rural Municipalities to strengthen healthcare services with a focus on vulnerable groups. The project supports government health facilities through capacity building, awareness programs, and direct support to beneficiaries.

Completed Activities

• Maternal & Child Health: 53 orientation meetings reached 556 pregnant women and 334 caregivers.
• Hygiene & Health Practices: 44 events engaged 1,184 participants.
• Sexual & Reproductive Health (including Menstrual Health): 46 sessions reached 2,317 adolescents and community members.
• Psychosocial Well-being: 11 sessions with traditional healers (306 participants).
• Palliative Care: 21 orientations for caregivers (147 participants) and 1 training for health workers (28 participants).
• Community Events: 6 celebrations engaged 272 individuals.

In total, over 4,934 people—including antenatal mothers, caregivers, persons with disabilities, and adolescents—have directly benefited from these initiatives.

Impact
Through workshops and trainings, communities have gained vital knowledge on maternal health, safe hygiene practices, and mental well-being. Health workers and caregivers are now better prepared to provide quality care, while vulnerable groups feel more supported and included.

Testimony
"Before, I did not know how to care for myself during pregnancy. After attending the orientation, I understand proper nutrition and hygiene, which makes me feel more confident and safe." – Pregnant mother, Barekot RM

We sincerely thank you for your continued support. Together, we are building healthier, more resilient communities in Jajarkot.

— The PHASE Nepal Team