Nepal Health Conclave 2024 Identifies 10 Action Areas to Strengthen Healthcare Through Diaspora Connections

The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) of Nepal recently conducted the Nepal Health Conclave 2024 on December 26–27, 2024. The conclave had the impactful theme, “Connecting Diaspora for Healthcare Strengthening.” The event brought together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and diaspora representatives. They discussed strategies for leveraging diaspora resources. They aimed to use their expertise to strengthen Nepal’s healthcare system.

The conclave concluded with the proposal of 10-Point Priority Actions, which outline innovative steps for improving the country’s health sector. Feedback is actively being sought to finalize these priority actions as a declaration for long-term implementation.

Highlights of the Conclave

Theme: Connecting Diaspora for Healthcare Strengthening.
Dates: December 26–27, 2024.
Organized By: Ministry of Health and Population, Nepal.
Objective: To engage the Nepali diaspora in enhancing healthcare services through expertise, funding, and innovative collaborations.
Key Output: A proposed 10-Point Priority Action Plan focusing on research, innovation, policy, and collaboration.

Proposed 10-Point Priority Actions

Establish Research, Evidence Synthesis, and Diaspora Engagement Unit
- Create a dedicated unit at MoHP backed by a Diaspora Engagement Advisory Team.
Integrate Diaspora Engagement into National Joint Annual Review (NJAR)
- Ensure diaspora activities are systematically included in health reviews.
Create an Idea/Project Bank
- Establish a centralized platform to address health sector needs, promote collaboration with startups, and attract investment.
Develop Diaspora Mapping
- Maintain and extend mapping tools to identify experts and organizations (e.g., “Who is Who”).
Design Virtual Knowledge Platforms
- Enable continuous learning, mentoring, and capacity building.
Platform for Diaspora Research Grants
- Fund priority and underrepresented health issues.
Address Health Issues of Labor Migrants
- Explore diaspora-driven solutions for labor migrants’ health challenges.
Pilot Diagnostic and Critical Care Innovations
- Engage diaspora expertise for innovative healthcare projects.
Rural Health Fellowship Programs
- Develop fellowship programs aimed at improving rural healthcare through diaspora involvement.
Policy and Legal Analysis

Identify necessary changes to improve diaspora engagement in healthcare investments.

Significance of the Conclave

This conclave underlined Nepal’s commitment to addressing healthcare challenges by tapping into the expertise and resources of its global diaspora. The discussions emphasized the importance of knowledge sharing, investment in innovation, and collaborative health projects.

Call for Feedback

MoHP invites feedback from stakeholders, healthcare professionals, and diaspora representatives to refine the proposed 10-Point Priority Actions. Suggestions can help ensure that the final declaration reflects collective aspirations for Nepal’s healthcare transformation.

What is the conclusion?

The Nepal Health Conclave 2024 marked a critical step in mobilizing the global Nepali community for healthcare reform. By implementing the 10-Point Priority Actions, Nepal aims to create a resilient, inclusive, and innovative health system. Your input can play a pivotal role in shaping this transformative journey.