HimalAndes Initiative

HimalAndes Initiative is aimed at promoting information exchange and cooperation in science and technology between two of the largest mountain ranges in the world. From its inception the HimalAn-des Initiative explored areas were information exchange and project cooperation could bear fruitful outcomes for conservation of the natural and cultural heritage of both regions, sharing innovative e-xperiences, and focusing on the potential for the improvement in the livelihood of their mountain inhabitants.

In addition to some initial exchanges and small scale projects in the areas of agriculture, traditional crafts production for income generation, and community-based-tourism, the HimalAndes Initiative organized two inter-regional cooperation workshops. The first, held in Kathmandu in 1993, brought together colleagues from both regions and was an initial attempt to explore potential areas of cooperation. Several opportunities were highlighted. The second, an electronic conference managed by the Mountain Forum in 2006, dealt with the sustainable use of biodiversity, including genetic resources, in the Andes and the Himalayas.  Last year, HimalAndes Initiative organized an e-discussion titled  “Knowledge Sharing around water management innovations in the Andes and the Himalaya” (Oct/Nov 2013), with sponsorship from KM4Dev (Knowledge Management for Development Network). The discussion was enriched by contributions from experts from both regions, and is archived on KM4Dev Wiki