AIDE AU NEPAL SWITZERLAND: Active in Humanitarian Service for 30 Years

AIDE AU NEPAL SWITZERLAND, a Swiss nonprofit founded in 1995 by Marc Héritier and Philippe Riesen, marks 30 years of impactful humanitarian service in Nepal’s remote and underserved regions. Inspired by the challenges they witnessed during their travels, Héritier and Riesen have led the organization to deliver sustainable solutions in healthcare, education, clean water, sanitation, and infrastructure, empowering high mountain and rural communities.

A Legacy of Compassion and Action

Under the leadership of President Marc Héritier and Vice President Philippe Riesen, AIDE AU NEPAL SWITZERLAND has prioritized community-driven projects that foster self-sufficiency. Since its inception, the organization has built two schools, implemented eight smokeless stove projects, completed four clean water initiatives, constructed sanitation facilities, and distributed thousands of essential supplies, including blankets, jackets, and school bags. Their medical missions have provided life-saving surgeries and consultations in isolated villages.

Recent Achievements (2023–2025)

The organization continues to make strides in addressing critical needs. In 2023 and 2024, it installed 15 dry latrines in Dhading and distributed 103 stoves and 232 blankets in Sindhupalchok. In 2025, efforts expanded with 480 stoves installed in Dolpa and Sindhupalchok, alongside 925 blankets, 266 jackets, and 266 school bags distributed. A new sanitary building with six toilets and six showers was constructed in Kathmandu slums, and educational support was extended to a school in Eastern Rukum.

Key Milestones Since 1995

The organization has made significant strides in education by building two schools in 1997 and 1998, now serving over 300 students, with volunteer programs for English and basic education. In health and hygiene, it has delivered medical consultations, surgeries, and hygiene products to remote areas. For clean water access, four water purification and distribution projects were implemented between 1995 and 2006 to combat waterborne diseases. Smokeless stove initiatives from 1998 to 2019 installed metal stoves with chimneys to reduce indoor air pollution, a major health risk in high-altitude regions. In sanitation, two dry toilet projects were completed between 2018 and 2022, and three sanitation buildings were constructed in Kathmandu slums, serving over 160 families.

Leadership Transition and Vision

Following the loss of long-time coordinator Kaman Sing Lama during the COVID-19 pandemic, Indra Maya Tamang has taken on the coordination role, bringing local expertise and dedication to continue the mission. “Our work is about creating lasting change by empowering communities with the tools they need to thrive,” said Marc Héritier. “Every project is designed with sustainability and local partnership at its core.”

Ethical Funding Model

AIDE AU NEPAL SWITZERLAND ensures that 100% of donations directly fund projects. Marc Héritier and Philippe Riesen personally cover travel, accommodation, and administrative costs, while local volunteers and sherpas are fairly compensated for their invaluable contributions.

Gratitude to Partners

The organization extends heartfelt thanks to the Municipality of Bernex, various Swiss municipalities, foundations, private donors, and the families of late Nepali partners Bhuwan Dunghana and Kaman Sing Lama. Their support and legacy continue to drive AIDE AU NEPAL SWITZERLAND’s mission.

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