Kaipen: Women empowerment through high-quality delicacies in Luang Prabang

Kaipen, a distinctive and flavorful delicacy from Luang Prabang made from nutritious freshwater riverweed, stands out not only for its unique taste but also because it is produced by women in the Nam Bak and Viengkham districts.

These women’s groups play a crucial role in ensuring Kaipen maintains its exceptional quality. Loved by both locals and tourists as a delicious and healthy snack, Kaipen is a rich source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
The uniqueness of Kaipen lies in the dedication of women producers in the villages of Bom, Lee, Buamvan, and Sopheuang. With support from Wonders International, a Korean NGO funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), Kaipen production has improved in hygiene, quality, and taste. Wonders International has empowered rural women by enhancing their skills and enabling them to produce a high-value, income-generating product. This support has created new income opportunities and strengthened women-led community development.
Kaipen production follows strict quality standards. Only the best ingredients are selected, and the cleaning process uses sterilized water and modern equipment developed by Korean technology experts. To maintain freshness, Kaipen is packaged in moisture-resistant pouches imported from Korea.
Such meticulous attention ensures Kaipen is not only delicious but also of the highest quality. Wonders International also provides business training and essential equipment. Continuous monitoring has led to steady improvements in production, with women producers enhancing the product’s quality year after year.
Sustainability remains the core focus—ensuring long-term self-sufficiency for the women involved. A ready-to-eat version of Kaipen will also be introduced soon, making it easier for more people to enjoy this nutritious and flavorful snack.
With its rich flavor, health benefits, and impact on community livelihoods, Kaipen is more than just a delicacy—it is a powerful symbol of women’s empowerment and sustainable development in the rural communities of Laos.
through high-quality delicacies in Luang Prabang
For those interested in purchasing Kaipen, it is available at the following locations:
• Ban Bom, Nam Bak District, Luang Prabang Province
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• Ban Lee, Nam Bak District, Luang Prabang Province
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• Ban Buamvan, Viengkham District, Luang Prabang Province
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• Ban Sopheuang, Viengkham District, Luang Prabang Province
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By Advertorial Desk
 (Latest Update May 16, 2025)