For Environment, Democracy and Livelihoods
ForestAction Nepal showcases theatre, dialogue, and technical presentations at the National Conference on Sustainable Agri-Food Systems
As a contributing organization to the National Conference on Sustainable Agri-Food Systems (SAFS 2026), organized by the Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU) from 25–27 June 2026 in Rampur, Chitwan, ForestAction Nepal showcased innovative approaches to promoting sustainable agri-food systems through theatre, dialogue, and technical presentations.
Opening Day: Theatre as a Catalyst for Reflection
On the opening day of the conference, ForestAction Nepal, in collaboration with Karmi Chautari—a collective of professional theatre artists from Chitwan, staged a thought-provoking theatre performance titled “An Epilogue: The Muted Melody.” Centered on the theme “We Are Muting the Melody of Nature,” the performance explored the growing disconnect between humans and nature by highlighting pressing environmental and agricultural challenges, including ecosystem degradation, unsustainable agricultural production systems, increasing pollution, and the erosion of indigenous food systems.The performance encouraged participants to critically reflect on the sustainability of prevailing agricultural production and consumption systems and the urgent need to transition toward more resilient, equitable, and nature-positive agri-food systems. An interactive discussion followed, providing space for participants to share reflections, exchange perspectives, and explore how creative arts can stimulate dialogue, inspire collective action, and foster social change.
The session concluded with a musical performance titled “Who Would Be a Fool to arm Here?” a fusion of rap and melody that humorously portrayed contemporary perceptions of agriculture. By highlighting the declining appeal of farming among young people, the performance underscored the urgent need to restore dignity, recognition, and value to agriculture as a viable, rewarding, and respected profession.
Second Day: Science and Policy Take the Stage
On the second day of the conference, Dr. Lila Nath Sharma, Executive Coordinator of ForestAction Nepal, delivered a keynote presentation titled “Transitioning Nepal’s Forest Restoration from ‘Forest Cover to Biodiversity and Health’ for Resilient Landscapes.” He emphasized the need to shift Nepal’s forest restoration efforts beyond increasing forest cover toward enhancing biodiversity, improving forest health, and strengthening community stewardship to build resilient landscapes.
Dr. Krishna Prasad Paudel, Agricultural Policy Analyst at ForestAction Nepal, also delivered a keynote presentation titled “Healing the Metabolic Rift: Agroecology, Policy Contestation, and Himalayan Rejuvenation in Nepal.” His presentation examined the ecological and socio-economic consequences of industrial agriculture and highlighted the importance of agroecological approaches in restoring soil health, strengthening food sovereignty, and advancing the sustainable transformation of Nepal’s agri-food systems.
Reinforcing a Commitment to Sustainable Food Systems
ForestAction Nepal’s participation in SAFS 2026 reflects its enduring commitment to advancing sustainable and resilient agri-food systems in Nepal. Through interdisciplinary research, policy engagement, innovation, and strategic collaboration, the organization continues to promote evidence-based solutions that strengthen agroecology, conserve biodiversity, restore resilient landscapes, and support inclusive rural development. The organization remains committed to working with diverse partners to foster transformative change toward sustainable food systems and a more resilient future for both people and nature.