“Well begun is half done.” In any project, a strong start with clear goals and a thoughtful plan is essential for success. For the Project for Enhancement of Livelihood Resilience in Rural Areas (LRRA), this means beginning with a comprehensive Training on Baseline Survey to understand current conditions and gather valuable data on the communities FAO aims to support.

Launched in September 2024 and funded by the Government of Japan, the LRRA project is dedicated to creating sustainable improvements in the lives and incomes of rural households. By promoting climate-resilient, high-value agriculture and enhancing local infrastructure, the LRRA project strives to achieve far-reaching goals, including poverty reduction, increased food and nutrition security, and enhanced resilience for rural communities. This targeted approach lays a strong foundation for meaningful and lasting change.

On 30 October 2024, the LRRA project team held an essential training session for representatives from the Provincial/District Agriculture and Forestry Office (PAFO/DAFO) in Luang Prabang and Oudomxay. A total of 24 officials participated: 4 from PAFO and 8 from DAFO in Luang Prabang, and 6 from PAFO and 6 from DAFO in Oudomxay. This training marked a critical preparation phase for the upcoming Baseline Survey targeting 294 households across 14 villages, which will be conducted from 4-8 November 2024.

 Guided by FAO Provincial Coordinators, PAFO/DAFO staff received in-depth training on every aspect of the survey process. Participants explored the purpose of each survey question, its relevance to project goals, and best practices for effective data collection. By equipping officials with these skills, the training ensured they’re ready to lead interviews and gather high-quality data that reflects the needs of each household. This Baseline Survey will provide the LRRA project with critical insights into the current conditions and needs of project sites. Armed with this information, the LRRA team can design initiatives that directly address community priorities, ensuring a more meaningful and sustainable impact for rural households.