Mr Somveophet Duangpasith (left) and Mr Luke Ebbs shake hands after signing a Memorandum of Understanding.

MoU signed to boost climate resilience, support vulnerable communities in Luang Prabang

A new initiative aimed at strengthening climate resilience and improving livelihoods for vulnerable communities in northern Laos is expected to be launched following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Luang Prabang on March 27.
The agreement, under a project titled “Building Climate-Adaptive Livelihoods and Resilience for Vulnerable Children, Families, and their Communities in Luang Prabang province”, was signed between Save the Children International in Laos and the Luang Prabang Provincial Department of Agriculture and Environment. It marks a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration to support climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods for impoverished communities.
The agreement signing ceremony was chaired by Alternate Party Central Committee member, Provincial Party Standing Committee member, and Vice Chairman of the Luang Prabang Provincial Administration Committee, Mr Chindavong Phosikham.
The event marked the signing of the project MoU between Provincial Party Committee member, Director of the Luang Prabang Provincial Department of Agriculture and Environment, Mr Somveophet Duangpasith, and Country Director of Save the Children International in Laos, Mr Luke Ebbs.
Also present at the ceremony were representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Education and Sports, as well as officials from provincial authorities and target districts.
Luang Prabang, widely known for its rich cultural heritage and natural resources, remains vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Many communities face increasing challenges related to shifting weather, limited livelihood opportunities, and declining agricultural productivity. These pressures place added strain on families and can reduce opportunities for children to learn, play, and thrive.
This new project aims to address these challenges by promoting climate-smart farming, diversifying household livelihoods, and strengthening community preparedness for climate impacts.
It also supports the province’s broader development priorities while contributing to national goals on sustainable development and environmental protection.
The project will be implemented in three districts—Nambak, Ngoi, and Viengkham—where it will focus on building climate adaptive livelihoods, enhancing community resilience, and improving the overall well-being of vulnerable children and their families.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Somveophet said “This project is both essential and timely, as it will help strengthen people’s skills and capacities, enabling them to adapt to and effectively engage with the evolving challenges brought about by climate change.”
Mr Ebbs stressed the long-term significance of the collaboration, saying “This partnership marks an important step in strengthening the resilience of children, families, and communities who are most affected by climate change.”
“Through this project, we are committed to long-term, community-driven solutions that help families adapt, protect their livelihoods, and build a safer future for their children. We are grateful for the collaboration with Luang Prabang authorities and the support of the New Zealand Government, which make this shared vision possible.”
The project, funded by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), will run until 2030, ensuring sustained support as communities adapt to evolving climate conditions.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update March 31, 2026)