PM KP Sharma Oli Reaffirms Nepal’s Commitment to Lead-Free Future at Global Summit

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, addressing a high-level event organized by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on Monday, reaffirmed Nepal’s strong commitment to a lead-free future. The event, held at UNICEF House during the 79th United Nations General Assembly, brought together global leaders to discuss the harmful impacts of lead poisoning, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

In his keynote speech, Prime Minister Oli expressed concern over the widespread effects of lead poisoning on children’s health and development. He emphasized that lead exposure remains a serious global issue, with approximately half of children in lower-income countries affected. The Prime Minister highlighted the alarming economic impact of lead exposure, with global productivity losses estimated at $1.4 trillion annually.

PM Oli called for strong leadership from governments to implement effective domestic policies, including regulations to limit or ban the use of lead in various sectors. He urged the United Nations and its agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), to prioritize lead poisoning prevention by supporting capacity building, awareness programs, and establishing testing facilities in low-income countries.

“Resource mobilization is key to the success of this effort,” PM Oli stated, calling on international financial institutions, bilateral donors like USAID, and organizations like the World Bank to scale up their support in the fight against lead exposure.

Nepal, he noted, has already made significant strides in reducing lead exposure. He proudly shared that Nepal was among the first countries in the global south to ban leaded gasoline and the first in the region to regulate lead in paint. In 2023, Nepal introduced strict regulations limiting heavy metals, including lead, in essential food items and infant supplies. Additionally, a national blood lead level assessment is planned for 2025 to further refine health and environmental policies.

In closing, Prime Minister Oli affirmed Nepal’s commitment to global partnerships aimed at securing a lead-free future, ensuring that no child’s potential is diminished by lead exposure. He expressed Nepal’s determination to work with global partners and continue advancing public health through stronger regulatory frameworks.

The event was attended by global dignitaries, including the President of the Dominican Republic, the President of Malawi, US First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, and USAID Administrator Samantha Power. The gathering highlighted the urgent need for coordinated global efforts to protect children from the dangers of lead exposure.