Attapeu Province, Lao PDR – February 27, 2024 – In a collaborative effort, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and Attapeu Provincial Office handed over a solar-powered irrigation system to the Attapeu Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office (PAFO) during a ceremony held in Inthy Village, Sanamxay District.

This initiative falls under the "Building Climate-Resilient and Eco-friendly Agriculture Systems and Livelihoods" (Climate REAL) project, funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). Climate REAL aims to strengthen Attapeu Province's resilience to climate disasters and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

The project strategically identified seven villages, including Inthy, for these innovative irrigation systems. These systems address water scarcity, particularly in rural areas with limited access to electricity, by utilizing renewable energy sources.

FAO Representative, Ms. Kyung-Mee Kim, met with Attapeu Governor, Mr. Vanthong Kongmany, to discuss project progress and future collaboration. Ms. Kim highlighted the careful selection process, emphasizing collaboration with local authorities to choose villages "lacking water but with hardworking farmers, aiming to create meaningful change."

She further emphasized the project's positive impact on rice production, stating, "Rice and Seed Production Groups have shown excellent results in 2023 yields. This can be the first step towards Attapeu's self-sufficiency in high-quality rice seeds."

Attapeu Province Vice Governor, Mr. Khamboun Duangpabang, expressed his gratitude to FAO for its continued support in ensuring food security, improving nutrition, and promoting agribusiness. He acknowledged the project's wider impact, stating, "The knowledge and skills of thousands in target villages have greatly improved. With provided resources, villagers can enjoy higher agricultural outputs, improved livelihoods, and reduced poverty."

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Lao Media Contact Person:

• Vilaylack Khounvisith, National Communication Consultant 
• Bounmee Maokhamphiou, Outreach Specialist