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Implemented by Damien Foundation Belgium in Nigeria

Sponsored by Mechelen Subsidies, Aksis Corporations, and the Mechelen Volunteers Team

In 2025, the Damien Foundation Belgium (DFB) in Nigeria implemented an Economic Empowerment Program aimed at supporting People Affected by Leprosy and their dependents. The initiative was generously sponsored by Mechelen Subsidies, Aksis Corporations, and the Mechelen Volunteers Team, whose partnership made the program possible.

This intervention took place in two leprosy settlements in Ogun State, Nigeria, Oke-Eriwo and Iberekodo. The primary goal was to provide vocational tools and start-up support to people whose conditions and backgrounds had prevented them from gaining sustainable means of livelihood.

Many of the beneficiaries were either affected by leprosy themselves or were children of persons affected by the disease, unable to afford vocational training, shop rents, or the equipment needed to launch their trades. The program was designed to help them escape the cycle of poverty, avoid dependence on alms collection, and encourage social inclusion and dignity.

Program Objectives

• To alleviate poverty in marginalized leprosy-affected communities
• To discourage begging by creating sustainable economic opportunities
• To promote long-term empowerment and social inclusion
• To reduce stigma and discrimination, and thereby improve mental health and self-worth among affected persons

The implementation process began with a thorough needs assessment conducted by the DFB Team in collaboration with community leaders and the Ogun State Leprosy Focal Person. This assessment helped identify and verify the most deserving beneficiaries, individuals either affected by leprosy or dependents, who demonstrated readiness and commitment to utilize the vocational equipment to improve their livelihoods and support their families. Once verified, tailored tools and materials were procured and distributed during official handover events in the settlements. Beneficiaries signed a Memorandum of Understanding to ensure the equipment would be used solely for the intended vocational purposes, accompanied by counseling sessions to encourage responsible use and long-term sustainability.

Program Outcomes

A total of 18 beneficiaries (comprising 9 males and 9 females) received start-up tools and materials, distributed as follows:

This initiative is a practical step towards promoting dignity, inclusion, and self-sufficiency among people affected by leprosy in Nigeria. With the continued support of our sponsors and partners, we look forward to scaling this impact and reaching even more communities in need.