Mohan Das Manandhar is an expert in climate change, political economy analysis, energy policies, socio-political dimension of government and social inclusion. He has more than 35 years of hands- on experience in government agencies, development organizations, academic institutions, and private sector enterprises in Nepal, South Asia (Bangladesh, Pakistan), South East Asia (Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Myanmar), and Africa (Liberia).
Mr. Manandhar is Chairperson of Sustainable Prosperity Initiative Nepal and Executive Chairperson of Organisation Development Centre (ODC). He was Executive Director of Niti Foundation. He also served as chairperson of development bank. Mr. Manandhar was the Political Economy Consultant for Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), Political Economy Analysis (PEA) of energy and electricity sector of Nepal in designing an economic reform programme for the Government of Nepal. He also served as senior academic advisor to Nepal Administrative Staff College (NASC). Mr. Manandhar was a visiting scholar at the Department of Urban Studies and Planning at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA. He is also an adviser of Displacement Research and Action Network (DRAN)/MIT and is a member of Nepal Research Advisory Group, the Program of Resilient Communities, Harvard Humanitarian Initiative. He was board member of Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC), a government institution established with the objective of developing and promoting renewable/alternative energy technologies in Nepal.
He did his BE (Civil) from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) – Roorkee and MBA from International University of Japan (IUJ).
Ms. Sarita Karki Managing Director
Sarita Karki has been leading the Sustainable Prosperity Initiative (SPI) Nepal since 2021, driving impactful programs in clean cooking and sustainable development, managing multiple programs, projects, and consulting assignments. She brings over a decade of diverse experience working with international organizations like the United Nations Foundation’s Clean Cooking Alliance, Imperative Global, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), and ActionAid International. She has experience of working with development partners, government agencies and private sector agencies in the area of clean cooking, carbon-offset, stakeholder management, policy engagement, institutional strengthening and organizational development, organizational capacity building, human resource management, learning and development, program evaluation and surveys, and research and studies.
Previously, she worked as Regional Research Coordinator for Asia Market Assessment of Innovative Sanitation Technologies in Indonesia and Pakistan for BMGF. Before joining SPI Nepal, she held key roles at ActionAid International Nepal, Teach for Nepal, Niti Foundation, Urja Developers, and CE Construction Pvt. Ltd. She is passionate about empowering communities, advancing voluntary carbon markets, and integrating policy frameworks to achieve long-term environmental and social impact.
She holds MBA from Bangalore University and MBS from Tribhuvan University. She has also completed short courses on “Key Essentials: The Global Biodiversity Framework, Sustainable Development and the Law” and “Key Essentials: The Paris Agreement, Sustainable Development and the Law” offered by Lucy Cavendish College and Hughes Hall at the University of Cambridge.
Mr. Purushottam Ghimire Senior Advisor - Policy
Purushottam Ghimire served more than 32 years in the Government of Nepal in a different capacity and 15 years in the field of Climate Change (CC), Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a Joint Secretary, he served as Chief of Environment and Climate Change Division and Focal Point of UNFCCC in the Ministry of Environment. He also led climate change projects such as NAPA, LAPA, PPCR, EBA and others, and the Nepalese delegation in many times to UNFCCC process. He was elected board member to the Global Mountain Partnership from the Asia Pacific Group for three year and focal point ICIMOD and UNDESA.
He also worked as Policy Expert for USAID and Oxford Policy Management (OPM), a DFID support program in Nepal. He also served as Governance Advisor to the “Development of a Collaborative Disaster Risk Reduction Mechanism for Hydropower Projects and Communities through EWS Installation. He also worked as policy adviser to the UNFCCA and contributed Clean Cooking Campaign in Nepal and supported in preparing Clean Cooking National Guideline.
Mr. Shirish Singh Field Coordinator - Data Management & Monitoring
Shirish Singh, an experienced program and data management professional, has been instrumental in driving SPI Nepal’s initiatives since 2022. Over the last two years, he has served as Program Coordinator at SPI Nepal, contributing to various clean cooking projects and other research assignments. In December 2024, he took on the role of Field Coordinator – Data Management and Monitoring for the CCA-led clean cooking project in Madhesh Province. Previously, Shirish led a study assessing logistic capacity for WFP, worked as a Sourcing Coordinator for Nepal earthquake response efforts with World Vision International, and held the position of Procurement and Logistics Officer.
With an extensive expertise in field coordination, logistics and supply chain management, and data analysis and management, he has contributed to impactful projects in clean energy and humanitarian response. Shirish’s work includes conducting baseline and endline studies, technology assessments, and comprehensive data analyses to support informed decision-making and policy development. In his current role, Shirish leads data-driven strategies to monitor and evaluate project performance, ensuring accountability and precision in project outcomes. He has demonstrated a strong ability to collaborate with stakeholders across government, private, and non-governmental sectors, fostering partnerships that enhance project implementation. His dedication to innovation and evidence-based solutions aligns with SPI Nepal’s mission of promoting sustainable and inclusive development through impactful programs.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Wentworth Institute of Technology, Boston, USA.
Ms. Kiran Kumari Chaudhary Field Coordinator - Project Implementation
Kiran Kumari Chaudhary brings over two decades of experience in project implementation and local coordination across diverse sectors such as education, poverty alleviation, gender equality, and social mobilization. With a Master’s degree in Sociology and a strong foundation in project management, she has worked with various national and international organizations, including UNFPA, DFID, and Swiss Contact. Her expertise lies in planning, executing, and monitoring field-level activities, fostering partnerships with stakeholders, and ensuring effective program delivery. Kiran has a proven track record of managing community-based initiatives, supervising teams, and facilitating capacity-building programs, particularly in marginalized communities.
At SPI Nepal, Kiran will be implementing project activities for CCA-led clean cooking project in Madhesh Province. She will leverage her extensive experience in coordinating with government bodies, local partner agencies, private sectors, and NGOs to ensure successful project outcomes. Her commitment to promoting sustainability, empowering local communities, and driving social impact aligns with SPI Nepal’s mission to achieve sustainable prosperity.
Mr. Animesh Ghimire Research Fellow
Animesh Ghimire, M.Ed. (Research), MN, BN, is an interdisciplinary researcher whose work resides at the intersection of health, education, and policy. He skillfully elucidates the complex dynamics between these sectors, offering novel perspectives on attaining sustainable well-being. His research critically examines the ethical dilemmas inherent in these intersecting domains, interrogating the moral implications of healthcare access, resource allocation, and the influence of socio-economic disparities on health outcomes. Animesh demonstrates a particular commitment to addressing inequities within the Global South, advocating for policies and practices that uphold the principles of fairness, justice, and the holistic well-being of all individuals, irrespective of their geographical location.
Currently Animesh is working as Lecturer at Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Australia
Reetu Rajbhandari is an experienced Engineer with over eight years of expertise in the clean energy and sanitation sector. She holds a Master’s degree in Urban Water and Sanitation from IHE-Delft, Netherlands.
Previously serving as Program Coordinator at SPI Nepal, Reetu has worked with organizations including the Clean Cooking Alliance, Imperative Global, BORDA and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (in Indonesia and Pakistan) on clean cooking solutions, carbon offset programs and innovative sanitation technologies. Her work includes feasibility studies, stakeholder consultations, and field testing for clean energy and sanitation projects. In sanitation sector, she has promoted ISO Standard 24521, city-wide inclusive sanitation plans, wastewater and faecal sludge management, and e-waste management through Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks in Nepal.
She has engaged stakeholders across government, private sectors, and communities, ensuring local alignment with project goals. Her contributions have been recognized at national and international forums, where she has presented and published research. With a proven track record in advancing sustainable practices, Reetu continues to advance equitable and innovative solutions in clean energy and sanitation.
Samridhi Pant is a seasoned private sector expert with a diverse portfolio encompassing business environment assessment, local economic development, private sector development amid federalization, and policy-making. With a wealth of experience, Samridhi has successfully navigated and contributed to a wide range of international projects, showcasing a keen understanding of the intricate dynamics within the business landscape. Known for strategic thinking and effective policy implementation, she continues to make impactful strides in shaping and enhancing the private sector across various domains.
Ms. Aju Nyachhyon Consultant - Market Systems Expert
Aju Nyachhyon is a systems thinker and a seasoned professional with experience in various fields of business, technology and economic development. She is a food technologist with an MBA degree, passionate about private sector engagement and creating a better business environment for socio-economic prosperity.
Ms. Chandrakala Shrestha Accountant
Chandrakala Shrestha has more than 5 years of experience in accounting and financial management specifically at audit firms. At SPI Nepal, she is responsible for preparing and examining financial records, reconciling bank statements, and ensuring financial information are accurate and up to date throughout the year.
She holds Bachelor’s of Commerce degree (specialization in Accounting and Finance) from Tribhuvan University.
Rachendra Khand Program & Finance Associate
Rachendra Khand is a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a strong foundation in finance and administration. A graduate in Business Studies and currently pursuing a master’s degree in Conflict, Peace, and Development Studies, Rachendra possesses over four years of progressive experience managing financial and administration roles across diverse Sectors , including Niti Foundation, Movers and Shakers Holdings, and Kantipur Digital Corp.
His interdisciplinary academic pursuits further enhance his capacity to address complex challenges, particularly at the nexus of financial management and developmental initiatives.
Mr. Dhanesh Khadka Admin & Finance Assistant
Dhanesh Khadka has been serving as the Admin and Finance Assistant at SPI Nepal for the past two years, bringing over eight years of extensive experience in administration, logistics and finance. Prior to joining SPI Nepal, he worked as a Communication and Information Assistant at the National Development Volunteers Service (NDVS) for more than five years, where he gained valuable expertise in managing communication systems and information processes.
Dhanesh also held the position of Communication Officer at J.P. Foundation, further honing his skills in organizational communication and coordination. His dedication to ensuring smooth administrative operations and his strong logistical capabilities make him a key member of the SPI Nepal team.
Ms. Pratha Bhandari Trainee
Pratha Bhandari previously worked as a marketing intern for Promoters Nepal, where she gained a hands-on experience in content creation, social media management, market research, and competitor analysis. During her tenure as a marketing intern, she excelled in crafting scripts and developing creative content strategies that drove engagement and brand visibility.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, specializing in Marketing, from Nepal College of Management, Kathmandu University. She is passionate about discovering innovative solutions and expanding her knowledge base.
Ms. Sugi Chaudhary Office Support
Sugi Chaudhary is responsible for keeping office building and surrounding areas neat and organized.
Mr. Ramesh Kumar Basnet Gardener
Ramesh Kumar Basnet is responsible for keeping garden and spaces around office premises green, healthy and beautiful.
Mr. Mohan Das Manandhar Chairperson
Mohan Das Manandhar is an expert in climate change, political economy analysis, energy policies, socio-political dimension of government and social inclusion. He has more than 35 years of hands- on experience in government agencies, development organizations, academic institutions, and private sector enterprises in Nepal, South Asia (Bangladesh, Pakistan), South East Asia (Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Myanmar), and Africa (Liberia).
Mr. Manandhar is Chairperson of Sustainable Prosperity Initiative Nepal and Executive Chairperson of Organisation Development Centre (ODC). He was Executive Director of Niti Foundation. He also served as chairperson of development bank. Mr. Manandhar was the Political Economy Consultant for Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), Political Economy Analysis (PEA) of energy and electricity sector of Nepal in designing an economic reform programme for the Government of Nepal. He also served as senior academic advisor to Nepal Administrative Staff College (NASC). Mr. Manandhar was a visiting scholar at the Department of Urban Studies and Planning at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA. He is also an adviser of Displacement Research and Action Network (DRAN)/MIT and is a member of Nepal Research Advisory Group, the Program of Resilient Communities, Harvard Humanitarian Initiative. He was board member of Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC), a government institution established with the objective of developing and promoting renewable/alternative energy technologies in Nepal.
He did his BE (Civil) from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) – Roorkee and MBA from International University of Japan (IUJ).
Ms. Sarita Karki Managing Director
Sarita Karki has been leading the Sustainable Prosperity Initiative (SPI) Nepal since 2021, driving impactful programs in clean cooking and sustainable development, managing multiple programs, projects, and consulting assignments. She brings over a decade of diverse experience working with international organizations like the United Nations Foundation’s Clean Cooking Alliance, Imperative Global, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), and ActionAid International. She has experience of working with development partners, government agencies and private sector agencies in the area of clean cooking, carbon-offset, stakeholder management, policy engagement, institutional strengthening and organizational development, organizational capacity building, human resource management, learning and development, program evaluation and surveys, and research and studies.
Previously, she worked as Regional Research Coordinator for Asia Market Assessment of Innovative Sanitation Technologies in Indonesia and Pakistan for BMGF. Before joining SPI Nepal, she held key roles at ActionAid International Nepal, Teach for Nepal, Niti Foundation, Urja Developers, and CE Construction Pvt. Ltd. She is passionate about empowering communities, advancing voluntary carbon markets, and integrating policy frameworks to achieve long-term environmental and social impact.
She holds MBA from Bangalore University and MBS from Tribhuvan University. She has also completed short courses on “Key Essentials: The Global Biodiversity Framework, Sustainable Development and the Law” and “Key Essentials: The Paris Agreement, Sustainable Development and the Law” offered by Lucy Cavendish College and Hughes Hall at the University of Cambridge.
Mr. Purushottam Ghimire Senior Advisor - Policy
Purushottam Ghimire served more than 32 years in the Government of Nepal in a different capacity and 15 years in the field of Climate Change (CC), Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a Joint Secretary, he served as Chief of Environment and Climate Change Division and Focal Point of UNFCCC in the Ministry of Environment. He also led climate change projects such as NAPA, LAPA, PPCR, EBA and others, and the Nepalese delegation in many times to UNFCCC process. He was elected board member to the Global Mountain Partnership from the Asia Pacific Group for three year and focal point ICIMOD and UNDESA.
He also worked as Policy Expert for USAID and Oxford Policy Management (OPM), a DFID support program in Nepal. He also served as Governance Advisor to the “Development of a Collaborative Disaster Risk Reduction Mechanism for Hydropower Projects and Communities through EWS Installation. He also worked as policy adviser to the UNFCCA and contributed Clean Cooking Campaign in Nepal and supported in preparing Clean Cooking National Guideline.
Mr. Shirish Singh Field Coordinator - Data Management & Monitoring
Shirish Singh, an experienced program and data management professional, has been instrumental in driving SPI Nepal’s initiatives since 2022. Over the last two years, he has served as Program Coordinator at SPI Nepal, contributing to various clean cooking projects and other research assignments. In December 2024, he took on the role of Field Coordinator – Data Management and Monitoring for the CCA-led clean cooking project in Madhesh Province. Previously, Shirish led a study assessing logistic capacity for WFP, worked as a Sourcing Coordinator for Nepal earthquake response efforts with World Vision International, and held the position of Procurement and Logistics Officer.
With an extensive expertise in field coordination, logistics and supply chain management, and data analysis and management, he has contributed to impactful projects in clean energy and humanitarian response. Shirish’s work includes conducting baseline and endline studies, technology assessments, and comprehensive data analyses to support informed decision-making and policy development. In his current role, Shirish leads data-driven strategies to monitor and evaluate project performance, ensuring accountability and precision in project outcomes. He has demonstrated a strong ability to collaborate with stakeholders across government, private, and non-governmental sectors, fostering partnerships that enhance project implementation. His dedication to innovation and evidence-based solutions aligns with SPI Nepal’s mission of promoting sustainable and inclusive development through impactful programs.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Wentworth Institute of Technology, Boston, USA.
Ms. Kiran Kumari Chaudhary Field Coordinator - Project Implementation
Kiran Kumari Chaudhary brings over two decades of experience in project implementation and local coordination across diverse sectors such as education, poverty alleviation, gender equality, and social mobilization. With a Master’s degree in Sociology and a strong foundation in project management, she has worked with various national and international organizations, including UNFPA, DFID, and Swiss Contact. Her expertise lies in planning, executing, and monitoring field-level activities, fostering partnerships with stakeholders, and ensuring effective program delivery. Kiran has a proven track record of managing community-based initiatives, supervising teams, and facilitating capacity-building programs, particularly in marginalized communities.
At SPI Nepal, Kiran will be implementing project activities for CCA-led clean cooking project in Madhesh Province. She will leverage her extensive experience in coordinating with government bodies, local partner agencies, private sectors, and NGOs to ensure successful project outcomes. Her commitment to promoting sustainability, empowering local communities, and driving social impact aligns with SPI Nepal’s mission to achieve sustainable prosperity.
Mr. Animesh Ghimire Research Fellow
Animesh Ghimire, M.Ed. (Research), MN, BN, is an interdisciplinary researcher whose work resides at the intersection of health, education, and policy. He skillfully elucidates the complex dynamics between these sectors, offering novel perspectives on attaining sustainable well-being. His research critically examines the ethical dilemmas inherent in these intersecting domains, interrogating the moral implications of healthcare access, resource allocation, and the influence of socio-economic disparities on health outcomes. Animesh demonstrates a particular commitment to addressing inequities within the Global South, advocating for policies and practices that uphold the principles of fairness, justice, and the holistic well-being of all individuals, irrespective of their geographical location.
Currently Animesh is working as Lecturer at Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Australia
Ms. Reetu Rajbhandari Consultant - Sanitation & Clean Cooking
Reetu Rajbhandari is an experienced Engineer with over eight years of expertise in the clean energy and sanitation sector. She holds a Master’s degree in Urban Water and Sanitation from IHE-Delft, Netherlands.
Previously serving as Program Coordinator at SPI Nepal, Reetu has worked with organizations including the Clean Cooking Alliance, Imperative Global, BORDA and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (in Indonesia and Pakistan) on clean cooking solutions, carbon offset programs and innovative sanitation technologies. Her work includes feasibility studies, stakeholder consultations, and field testing for clean energy and sanitation projects. In sanitation sector, she has promoted ISO Standard 24521, city-wide inclusive sanitation plans, wastewater and faecal sludge management, and e-waste management through Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks in Nepal.
She has engaged stakeholders across government, private sectors, and communities, ensuring local alignment with project goals. Her contributions have been recognized at national and international forums, where she has presented and published research. With a proven track record in advancing sustainable practices, Reetu continues to advance equitable and innovative solutions in clean energy and sanitation.
Ms. Samridhi Pant Consultant - Private Sector Expert
Samridhi Pant is a seasoned private sector expert with a diverse portfolio encompassing business environment assessment, local economic development, private sector development amid federalization, and policy-making. With a wealth of experience, Samridhi has successfully navigated and contributed to a wide range of international projects, showcasing a keen understanding of the intricate dynamics within the business landscape. Known for strategic thinking and effective policy implementation, she continues to make impactful strides in shaping and enhancing the private sector across various domains.
Ms. Aju Nyachhyon Consultant - Market Systems Expert
Aju Nyachhyon is a systems thinker and a seasoned professional with experience in various fields of business, technology and economic development. She is a food technologist with an MBA degree, passionate about private sector engagement and creating a better business environment for socio-economic prosperity.
Ms. Chandrakala Shrestha Accountant
Chandrakala Shrestha has more than 5 years of experience in accounting and financial management specifically at audit firms. At SPI Nepal, she is responsible for preparing and examining financial records, reconciling bank statements, and ensuring financial information are accurate and up to date throughout the year.
She holds Bachelor’s of Commerce degree (specialization in Accounting and Finance) from Tribhuvan University.
Rachendra Khand Program & Finance Associate
Rachendra Khand is a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a strong foundation in finance and administration. A graduate in Business Studies and currently pursuing a master’s degree in Conflict, Peace, and Development Studies, Rachendra possesses over four years of progressive experience managing financial and administration roles across diverse Sectors , including Niti Foundation, Movers and Shakers Holdings, and Kantipur Digital Corp.
His interdisciplinary academic pursuits further enhance his capacity to address complex challenges, particularly at the nexus of financial management and developmental initiatives.
Mr. Dhanesh Khadka Admin & Finance Assistant
Dhanesh Khadka has been serving as the Admin and Finance Assistant at SPI Nepal for the past two years, bringing over eight years of extensive experience in administration, logistics and finance. Prior to joining SPI Nepal, he worked as a Communication and Information Assistant at the National Development Volunteers Service (NDVS) for more than five years, where he gained valuable expertise in managing communication systems and information processes.
Dhanesh also held the position of Communication Officer at J.P. Foundation, further honing his skills in organizational communication and coordination. His dedication to ensuring smooth administrative operations and his strong logistical capabilities make him a key member of the SPI Nepal team.
Ms. Pratha Bhandari Trainee
Pratha Bhandari previously worked as a marketing intern for Promoters Nepal, where she gained a hands-on experience in content creation, social media management, market research, and competitor analysis. During her tenure as a marketing intern, she excelled in crafting scripts and developing creative content strategies that drove engagement and brand visibility.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, specializing in Marketing, from Nepal College of Management, Kathmandu University. She is passionate about discovering innovative solutions and expanding her knowledge base.
Ms. Sugi Chaudhary Office Support
Sugi Chaudhary is responsible for keeping office building and surrounding areas neat and organized.
Mr. Ramesh Kumar Basnet Gardener
Ramesh Kumar Basnet is responsible for keeping garden and spaces around office premises green, healthy and beautiful.