35%
Of children are forced into marriage
Child marriage
Nepal has the 16th highest rate of child marriages in the world. This means that 40% of women in Nepal were married before the age of 18.
Child marriage is a violation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the emotional damage a child suffers from a forced union is profound. There is also an increased risk of child pregnancy and domestic violence.
In the province of Sudurpashchim specifically, where Dhangadhi is located, 35% of girls were married as a child. The national target to end child marriage by 2030 will require a major push from the government.
33%
Of children are underweight
Suffering from hunger
Although Nepal has been recognised as a leader in decreasing malnutrition, food insecurity is still widespread in Nepal. Many people suffer from acute hunger. In Sudurpashchim province especially, where Dhangadhi is located, parents struggle to provide enough nutritious food for their children. For this reason, 33% of the children are underweight.
More specifically, 40% of children in Sudurpashchim suffer from stunting (short height for age), a consequence of malnutrition. In addition, 14% of children suffer from wasting (low weight in relation to height), which occurs when a child has not received food of sufficient quality and quantity.
Your support makes a difference for children in Dhangadhi
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
110
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
![]()
Siblings having fun together. They grow up with each other, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Nepal).
How your support helps in Dhanghadi
Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run training so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start their own businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.