Three years ago, when I first arrived in Rapti Municipality Ward 13 villages for the ECCA Camp, I was confronted with the harsh reality of a rural community. The sight of people wearing torn clothes and the hesitation of children and women to interact with outsiders left a lasting impact on me. The dire living conditions were evident from the absence of proper sanitation facilities, lack of WASH and nutrition knowledge, and the general sense of isolation experienced by the villagers. However, through the dedicated efforts of ECCA Nepal, the community has witnessed a remarkable transformation. Today, as a counselor, I am thrilled to witness the positive changes that have taken place in Rapti Municipality Ward 13 villages.

One of the first challenges that ECCA Nepal tackled was the lack of basic facilities in the villages. The absence of toilets was a major concern, leading to unhygienic practices and health hazards. ECCA Nepal organized programs on latrine construction, providing the community with the necessary materials and knowledge to build proper toilets. Today, it is heartening to see that the villagers have embraced this change and are using toilets in a proper manner, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.

Education and hygiene go hand-in-hand, and ECCA Nepal recognized the need to address these issues simultaneously. In the ECCA Camp, children arrived without proper school attire, footwear, or bags. They lacked basic hygiene practices like washing their faces, brushing their teeth, and combing their hair. ECCA Nepal provided hygiene kits, school gardening kits, game materials, and stationary materials to the students, enabling them to maintain good hygiene and have access to educational resources. It is gratifying to know that even after three years, some students still use the hygiene kits provided, highlighting their commitment to personal cleanliness.

ECCA Nepal understood that lasting change could only be achieved by empowering the community, particularly women and children. By engaging them in various programs, ECCA Nepal aimed to enhance their life skills and build their capacity. The positive impact of these efforts is evident in the improved communication between counselors and the villagers. The villagers now feel more confident and are actively participating in the development of their community.

ECCA Nepal not only focused on creating awareness but also provided the community with sustainable solutions. Water filter systems were introduced to ensure access to clean drinking water. Villagers continue to use these water filters, further emphasizing the successful implementation of long-term solutions. Additionally, programs on nutrition and kitchen gardening were conducted to address the lack of knowledge in these areas. By providing plant seeds and imparting essential knowledge, ECCA Nepal enabled the community to improve their livelihoods and enhance their nutritional intake.

As a counselor, I am privileged to be a part of the positive changes that have taken place in Rapti Municipality Ward 13 villages. The journey from a village grappling with numerous challenges to one that is embracing development is truly inspiring. The community’s commitment to maintaining hygiene, utilizing the resources provided, and actively engaging in various programs reflects their determination to create a better future. ECCA Nepal’s dedication to sustainable development has brought about significant improvements in the lives of the villagers. While there is still much work to be done, the transformation witnessed in these villages serves as a light of hope, encouraging us to continue engaging in such impactful endeavors.