Empowering Informal Waste Workers Through Protection and GEDSI Training

Under the RIVER+ Project, a two-day interactive Training on Protection and GEDSI (Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion) was successfully conducted, engaging 500 Informal Waste Workers from across Kathmandu and Lalitpur. The training introduced participants—many for the first time—to critical concepts such as sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), gender equality, disability inclusion, and protection services. Participants gained practical knowledge on how to report incidents and where to access legal, medical, and psychosocial support for survivors of violence.

The sessions also focused on promoting equal household responsibilities, encouraging both men and women to value and share domestic tasks. Emphasis was placed on challenging harmful gender norms and ensuring equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities for both daughters and sons—paving the way for more inclusive and equitable communities.

This training was delivered under the RIVER+ Project, funded by the Plastic Free Rivers and Seas for South Asia Project, implemented by the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme, supported by The World Bank, and with implementation support from UNOPS. The project is led by Biocomp Nepal, in partnership with People in Need Nepal and CLEAN UP NEPAL, reinforcing their joint commitment to combating plastic pollution while empowering the communities most affected by it.