Japan’s GGP marks its 37th year, continuing support for local authorities and NGOs in Laos
 
The Japanese government’s “Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP)” initiative has entered its 37th year, providing targeted support to local governments and NGOs in developing countries. 
Overseen by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the programme focuses on small-scale but impactful initiatives that directly improve the lives of local communities.
In Laos, the GGP has been active since 1989, contributing to various sectors including education, healthcare, water supply, and rural infrastructure. 
To date, the programme has supported 641 projects in Laos, with total funding exceeding US$48 million. For the 2025-2026 fiscal year, Japan has allocated US$747,680 to fund nine new projects.

The concept of “human security”, which underpins the programme, emphasises protecting individuals’ lives, livelihoods and dignity from various threats – not only national security concerns.
While urban areas in Laos continue to develop, many rural and mountainous communities still lack access to basic social services. The GGP aims to respond directly to the immediate needs of these local populations.
Examples of supported projects include the renovation of dilapidated elementary schools, provision of educational materials such as desks and chairs, delivery of medical equipment to health centres, and refurbishment of maternity wards to safeguard mothers and infants. 
Additionally, the installation of wells and water supply systems has improved access to safe drinking water and helped prevent waterborne diseases. Although implemented with relatively modest budgets, these initiatives play a vital role in sustaining community life.
A distinctive feature of the GGP is the close involvement of the Embassy of Japan in Laos throughout all stages, from project planning to implementation and follow-up. This hands-on approach helps ensure that assistance is well adapted to local conditions and that facilities are well maintained.
Moreover, active participation by local organisations and residents in managing and maintaining the infrastructure fosters a strong sense of ownership.
Japan and Laos share a long-standing friendship and celebrated the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025. The GGP serves as a grassroots bridge that strengthens ties between the two countries.

 Completion and handover ceremonies often feature expressions of gratitude from local communities, further deepening mutual understanding and trust.
Looking ahead, grassroots initiatives such as the GGP remain essential to Laos’ sustainable development, complementing larger-scale, government-level aid. By accumulating numerous small-scale projects, Japan’s GGP continues to deliver meaningful and tangible benefits at the community level.
Below are brief introductions to some of the latest GGP projects in Laos.
Project for the Construction of Laovang Kindergarten and Primary School Building in Oudomxay province (2024). In Laovang village in La district, Oudomxay province, a new school was built to replace the severely dilapidated one at the kindergarten and primary school, improving the educational environment for children.
Project for Construction of Water Supply System in Namnyap village, Xayabouly province (2023). A water supply facility was installed in Namnyap village in Phieng district, Xayabouly province, providing residents with access to clean water.
Project for the Construction of Nasu Primary School Building in Vientiane province (2024). In Nasu village in Kasy district, Vientiane province, a new school was built to replace the severely dilapidated one at the primary school, improving the educational environment for children.
Project for the Construction of Kouang River Fishway in Vangvieng district, Vientiane province (2024). A concrete vertical slot fishway was constructed at the Kouang River First Weir in Narongkuang village in Vangvieng district, increasing the fish catch for residents in the surrounding area.
Project for the Construction of Irrigation Channel in Somsaat village, Savannakhet province (2024). A concrete irrigation channel was built in Somsaat village in Xaybouly district, Savannakhet province, improving crop yields for local residents.
Project for the Construction of Nongteh Small Hospital Building in Champasak province (2024). The small hospital in Nongteh village in Champasak district, Champasak province, was severely dilapidated, but a new ward was built, improving the healthcare environment in the targeted area.
Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Project (GGP) Consultant, Ms Tomita Hiroko, said that beyond improving livelihoods, these grassroots initiatives serve as a bridge of friendship between Japan and Laos.
“I am convinced they have a ripple effect that far exceeds our expectations,” she said. 
Another GGP Consultant, Ms Noda Yukie, added that the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects scheme is now receiving applications for assistance.
“We welcome projects dedicated to enhancing the lives of people at the grassroots level,” she said.

By Advertorial Desk
(Latest Update March 25, 2026 )