KIT Blog

Your support is making it possible for people affected by leprosy and disability in Nepal to generate their own sustainable income. And it’s environmentally-friendly too! Thank you.

The Rupantaran Agricultural Co-operative was formed through a Leprosy Mission project in Nepal and the members received livelihoods training. Together the group formulated an ambitious and ingenious business plan — to manufacture plates from leaves that grow in the local jungle.

These “leaf plates” are rising in popularity in this part of Nepal as hiring metal plates for events is expensive and people are also starting to recognise issues with plastic litter. The leaf plates are completely biodegradable so they help reduce waste. And with so many festivals and parties — there’s plenty of demand.

Traditionally, the plates are made by hand, but with a machine, around 100 plates can be made in an hour.

With help from Australian supporters like you, the group was able to purchase a pressing machine that effortlessly presses the leaves into shape. Thank you for your support!

Based on the group’s revenue projections, they will successfully pay off the costs of the machine in 4 months and support 55 families affected by leprosy to have a sustainable income. Praise God!

Give thanks to God for the Rupantaran group and other Leprosy Mission self-help groups in Nepal. Pray they may be further inspired with creative ideas to empower themselves and positively impact their communities.

Want to know more? Read Rangaraj’s story on the blog.

To further empower people affected by leprosy and disability in Nepal, please donate by calling 1800 LEPROSY (1800 537 767) or donate online.