Build Up Nepal, Deprosc Laghubitta sign MoU to aid reconstruction in earthquake-affected areas

KATHMANDU: Build up Nepal Engineering and Deprosc Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aiming to empower entrepreneurs to set up small enterprises focused on manufacturing CSEB interlocking bricks in the earthquake-affected areas of Jajarkot and Western Rukum districts.

The MoU aims to aid the reconstruction of houses and infrastructure in the two districts, which suffered extensive damage during the earthquake on November 3, 2023. The agreement entails rebuilding over 79,000 houses across both districts.

As part of the MoU, Rs 60 million in loans will be mobilised for small entrepreneurs interested in producing 150 CSEB interlocking bricks. This financing is anticipated to support the reconstruction of nearly 10,000 disaster-resistant houses in the upcoming years. Build up Nepal will also offer a 100% interest rate subsidy on loans disbursed through Deprosc Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha, thereby encouraging enterprise development by reducing financial constraints.

During the MoU signing ceremony held in Kathmandu, Deprosc Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shesh Raman Acharya, stated, “Deprosc is committed to supporting rural entrepreneurship and promoting sustainable development. Through our partnership with Build up Nepal, we aim to enable aspiring entrepreneurs from Jajarkot and Western Rukum districts to establish small enterprises in CSEB interlocking brick manufacturing. This will contribute to rebuilding houses and creating sustainable economic opportunities.”

Similarly, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Build up Nepal, Björn Söderberg, remarked, “This understanding marks the beginning of an exciting initiative. We are confident that this project will provide entrepreneurs with the necessary support to start their CSEB interlocking brick manufacturing businesses soon.” He further added that it will significantly contribute to the reconstruction efforts in Jajarkot and Western Rukum.

Build up Nepal has been actively empowering rural entrepreneurs by assisting communities in constructing earthquake-resistant houses at a low cost. The organisation provides essential machinery, training, and long-term support to manufacture environmentally friendly bricks using local materials based on CSEB interlocking brick technology.

Similarly, Deprosc Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha aims to create self-reliant employment by fostering entrepreneurship in backward, marginalised, and low-income communities in rural areas.

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