Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith (fourth from right) led his delegation to hand over cash and supplies worth over 2.1 billion kip to the authorities of Huaphan province on August 6.

Deputy PM inspects flood recovery in Huaphan, 2.1 billion kip in aid provided

The Central Disaster Management Committee has provided over 2.1 billion kip in cash and supplies to Huaphan province to support communities affected by Storm Wipha, which caused severe flooding and landslides in late July.
The relief package was delivered during a visit by Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith on August 6.
Deputy PM Saleumxay, who is responsible for economic and foreign affairs, as well as developments in Huaphan province, led committee members in coordinating immediate recovery activities and assessing local development progress.
He was received by the Governor of Huaphan, Dr Khampheng Saysompheng, and other senior officials, who provided an update on the impact of the storm and briefed the delegation on the province’s current socio-economic status.
Five districts – Xiengkhor, Huameuang, Viengxay, Sopbao, and Xamneua – were hit hardest by the storm. A total of 32 villages and 602 families were affected, with eight people confirmed dead and three still missing.
More than 970 people were impacted, and the damage to roads, housing, and farmland was described as extensive.
In other respects, Huaphan province has made encouraging progress. The governor reported that revenue collection has reached nearly 120 billion kip, and agricultural and livestock production targets have mostly been met. The province’s export value has exceeded US$20 million, reflecting continued growth in trade and rural productivity.
The province has also met 45 percent of this year’s target for the establishment of “cultural” villages. Meanwhile, significant progress has been made in public health and education, with Huaphan meeting 9 out of 11 key health indicators and 13 out of 14 education goals.
The remaining challenges include increasing the number of births attended by medical professionals, improving child vaccination rates, and raising enrolment in upper secondary schools.
Infrastructure improvements are ongoing, with 66 percent of roads now passable in all seasons, and 95 percent of villages having mobile phone coverage.
Deputy PM Saleumxay praised the province’s development achievements under challenging conditions and reaffirmed the Party and government’s full support for recovery and reconstruction efforts.
He called on provincial leaders to focus on key priorities including strengthening national defence and security, especially during politically sensitive periods and historical anniversaries; and to prepare thoroughly for the upcoming provincial Party Congress, ensuring it is held in accordance with Party guidelines.
In addition, the Deputy Prime Minister called for stronger forest protection, with stricter enforcement against illegal encroachment in protected areas.
He also advised closer cooperation with international partners to source investment and attract assistance to accelerate post-flood reconstruction, particularly by repairing damaged roads, bridges and irrigation systems, and supporting displaced families.
Mr Saleumxay also spoke about the government’s broader efforts to resolve fiscal challenges, simplify investment procedures, regulate mining activities, and stop illegal vehicle imports, all of which are closely linked to improving national economic resilience.
The Deputy Prime Minister and his delegation visited the newly built Huaphan Provincial Hospital, which is currently undergoing a trial period of operation.
The hospital is expected to officially open later this year and will serve as a major health facility for the province.
Deputy PM Saleumxay expressed his appreciation for the contributions of provincial leaders, frontline workers, and communities in responding to the floods and advancing development goals.
He encouraged continued unity, discipline, and responsibility in addressing both immediate flood recovery needs and long-term development priorities.
The delegation’s visit underscored the central government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable provinces and ensuring that no communities are left behind in the country’s journey towards socio-economic growth and national stability.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update August 8, 2025)