Ncell Foundation has partnered with ZONTA, UNFPA, and UNICEF Nepal to launch the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” initiative, aiming to raise awareness and combat child marriage in Nepal. The initiative was officially launched on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, with a special event held in Kathmandu.
The event brought together leaders from women-led organizations, private industries, and key stakeholders, all united to discuss solutions to end child marriage in Nepal. The event was inaugurated by ZONTA president Ms. Bina Rana, who emphasized the importance of a collective approach to eliminate child marriage in the country. Other dignitaries included UNICEF Deputy Representative to Nepal Ms. Jee Hyun Rah and Kamala Bishta, Gender and Human Rights Specialist at UNFPA Nepal.
A key moment of the event was the launch of a music video titled “Shir Mai Phurke Ribbon,” produced by UNFPA and UNICEF Nepal to educate the youth on the harsh consequences of child marriage. Nepali artist Prakash Saput, who is vocal against child marriage, joined the event to present the video.
The statistics on child marriage in Nepal are alarming, with one in every three girls marrying before the age of 18, contributing significantly to gender inequality, poor health, and limited education and economic opportunities for women. “Child marriage is a human rights violation and requires a multi-sectoral response,” said Dipak Dhakal, Under Secretary at the Ministry of Women, Children, and Senior Citizens.
Private Sector’s Role in Ending Gender Violence
Ncell has highlighted the important role the private sector can play in tackling gender-based violence and child marriage. The telecom company believes that businesses can use their platforms, resources, and influence to drive social change. Ncell advocates for promoting gender-equal policies, raising awareness, and integrating child protection measures in business operations.
Bishakha Lakshmi Khadka, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at Ncell, said, “As a leading private sector entity committed to fostering inclusive and equitable communities, we at Ncell believe that addressing gender-based violence is not just a social imperative but a moral responsibility for all. Through partnerships like this, we aim to amplify collective action and empower communities.”
The collaboration is part of Ncell’s broader CSR efforts to contribute to Nepal’s progress in health, education, and community development. Ncell Foundation views partnerships with women-led organizations and the private sector as key to addressing the root causes of child marriage, such as poverty, lack of education, and limited economic opportunities.
A Global Commitment to End Child Marriage
Zonta International has also been a major supporter of the UNFPA-UNICEF Global Program to End Child Marriage, becoming the first private-sector donor to this initiative in 2018. Bina Rana, President of Zonta Club Kathmandu, emphasized, “Through the ‘Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women’ campaign, we are committed to creating a better world for women, girls, and communities everywhere.”
Ms. Jee Hyun Rah from UNICEF Nepal concluded the event by stating, “By joining forces, we aim to break the cycle of child marriage and empower women and girls to reach their full potential.”
Alongside the 16 Days of Activism, Ncell continues to support several CSR initiatives, including 19 community projects focused on health, education, and sustainable environmental efforts.
