In countries where it is possible for the brethren to be self-supporting and not dependant on foreign aid, we have established ways for them to generate income. In many cases, due to the economy of the country, the brethren cannot afford to start up a business to sustain their families. However, once the materials are provided, they are happy to work hard.
Places where this method has already proved successful include the bakery in Haiti, a print shop and sewing machines in Ethiopia, and farming in Kenya.
However, the first place where such a project was begun was in Rwanda. After a meeting with the local brethren, we came to the conclusion that the best business would be a factory of encapsulated natural products as some of our brethren in Rwanda are qualified to do this work. We bought the machines, sent the starting capital, and they began working.
In Nicaragua, we are supporting a small coconut oil production plant. Starting in July, we will also have a community garden that will serve 47 people from an indigenous region where we have a church group and several families.
In Madagascar, we support an initiative of a local brother in the production of soy milk. About 27 families survive by selling this product. The business also supports local orphans in the community.
Let us keep these businesses and those who are involved in running them in our prayers.
