Country Profile

Nepal is a land-locked country situated between China and India, with a population of more than 28 million. It is a Hindu country, and is considered one of the world’s poorest nations. Christianity makes up only about 0.8 percent of the population (Joshuaproject.net). While religious freedom is constitutionally recognized and people are free to choose their religion, it is illegal to convert others (Operation World, 21st Century Edition).

To reach out to this vast country, the best way is to use the 200 local FM stations. FM radio is the most popular media in the country, and is the best way to reach the people as it covers about 85 percent of the population.

Needs

There are many issues faced by the people in this country, some of which are poverty, illiteracy, preventable disease, child labor and human trafficking.

Approximately 40 percent of Nepalese live below the poverty line of US$12 per person/per month. Despite some progress in poverty reduction in recent years and declining rates of urban poverty, the problem remains widespread and most indicators suggest that it is on the rise (Ruralpovertyportal.org).

While estimates are not freely available, it is believed that large numbers of women and children are being trafficked to India and forced into prostitution in different cities and towns. HIV/AIDS is also a growing concern, and there are an estimated 70,000 people living with HIV, with the death toll standing at about 5,000 (UNAIDS/WHO, 2008).

Despite the challenges, Nepal currently has one of the fastest rates of church growth in the world. New believers are joining the church on a daily basis, churches are multiplying and house-churches are growing. The greatest need is to raise leaders to oversee new churches, disciple new believers, and to encourage and shepherd mature believers to be salt and light in the community. It has been said that a majority of church leaders have little or no education, including theological training. Some pastors in the rural areas have just learnt to read and write, so that they will be able to read the Bible.