Bara District of Nepal is one of the worst leprosy-affected areas  in the country. Poverty is widespread, with most people engaged in subsistence farming or other high-labour low-return work.  Access to health care is limited, and so it is here that The Leprosy Mission New Zealand focuses its work in Nepal.

Leprosy is closely linked with poverty, but poverty cannot be cured with medication. So the CAP project is designed to help improve the economic situation of those affected by leprosy, other disabilities and the socially excluded.

CAP  Project (Community Active Participation)

CAP project is designed to empower and improve the social and economic environment of leprosy sufferers, other disabled people and those who have been socially excluded.  Self Help Groups are located in those areas that are hardest hit.

A direct and open relationship between The Leprosy Mission New Zealand and CAP field offices ensures help is provided when needed, and that the projects are built on trust and mutual respect.  From these beginnings, great things are growing. 

Self Help Groups are providing access to resources as needed. These range from training to micro enterprise development.  To begin with The Leprosy Mission New Zealand's local partner project staff attend the SHG meetings to offer support, encouragement and guidance. Women are encouraged to take key positions, and training is provided when necessary.

The CAP project is due to be completed in mid 2010, and to date it has been achieving its aims. It was reviewed in early 2009 and recommendations from that review, together with input from local communities, will influence decisions about future projects in the area.

The Nepal SEED Project Report section of this website has more specific information about this project.

Funding assisted by:

  SEED Partners       
  NZAid KOHA programme  

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