Development Ratings

The work of LLSC has largely been able to continue, despite the political conditions in Nepal. This has affected NLT’s ability to attract and retain high-quality expatriate staff to the Centre, however. One benefit of this is the development of the Nepali staff to take on various responsibilities themselves. NLT has over 30 years experience in Nepal, and has weathered the civil war and other problems.

Leprosy will be officially eliminated in Nepal at some point, raising the question of what NLT’s focus will be when this happens. New cases detected have risen 2008 on 2007, however. The disease takes 5-30 years to develop, and there will be continued work even after official elimination.

LLSC treats non-leprosy patients which undermines donors’ focus on leprosy. However, its future focus on disabled people and skin diseases remains targeted on disadvantaged groups. Cured patients may re-catch leprosy, particularly given their original susceptibility and any ongoing poverty.