Birendranagar, Surkhet – A program titled “Improved Sanitation Supply Chain through a Vibrant WASH Mart in Karnali” was held on Tuesday in Birendranagar. The event brought together 19 WASH Mart operators from different districts of Karnali and companies selling sanitation products.
The program, jointly organized by SUSWA and Nest Traders Nepalgunj, served as a learning and sharing platform. It included an exhibition of sanitation products such as toilet pans, handwashing stations, reusable sanitary pads, soap, and other hygiene items. Participants also discussed best practices, new technologies, and ways to make the sanitation supply chain stronger and more sustainable.
For the first time, SUSWA has helped promote WASH Marts in several districts of Karnali. These marts make it easier for communities, including those in remote areas, to access affordable sanitation and hygiene products. Local traders are encouraged to operate through the WASH Mart model so that more people can benefit from improved service and wider product availability.
According to Govinda Rokaya, Sanitation and Hygiene Specialist at SUSWA, the initiative aims to make WASH products available in key marketplaces of all districts in Karnali. He explained that WASH Marts also create space for the private sector to promote sustainable solutions, encourage entrepreneurship, and build inclusive market systems.
Nest Traders, as a leading private company, showed its commitment to this model by connecting suppliers, entrepreneurs, and communities while ensuring quality and dignity in service delivery. SUSWA supported the process by sharing its knowledge on system strengthening and capacity building, helping both development partners and private sector actors to work together.
Participants shared their experiences on how to make sanitation services more accessible, affordable, and sustainable in rural areas. They highlighted that sanitation is not only about products but also about dignity, health, and long-term community well-being.
During the event, the best-performing WASH Mart operators of the year were recognized and awarded. The program carried the guiding slogan, “हामी सामानसँग सम्मान पनि बेच्छौं” (“We sell pride along with products”), reminding everyone of the important role WASH Marts play in ensuring inclusive and dignified sanitation services across Karnali.
Through this initiative, SUSWA continues to strengthen the sanitation supply chain, expand community access to WASH products, and build strong partnerships between the public and private sectors for lasting impact.
