Luang Prabang Province, Lao PDR – 27 March 2026, The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Signing Ceremony for the “Building Climate-Adaptive Livelihoods and Resilience for Vulnerable Children, Families, and their Communities in Luang Prabang Province” was successfully held on 27 March 2026 at Sanakeo Boutique, Luang Prabang Province, Lao PDR.
The MoU was signed between Save the Children in Laos and the Department of Agriculture and Environment, Luang Prabang Province, marking a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration to support climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable communities.
The ceremony was chaired by Mr. Chindavong PHOSIKHAM, an Alternate Central Party Committee Member, Provincial Party Standing Member, the Vice Chairman of the Provincial Management Committee, Luang Prabang Province. The event marked the signing of the project MO between Mr. Somveophet Duangpasith, Provincial Party Committee Member, the Director General of The Department of Agriculture and Environment, Luang Prabang Province, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, and Mr. Luke Ebbs, Country Director of Save the Children International in Laos. The ceremony was also witnessed by representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Education and Sports, as well as officials from provincial authorities and the target district levels.
Luang Prabang Province, while rich in 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—Nam Bak, 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 Duangpasith emphasized the importance of this initiative:
“The establishment of 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. Luke Ebbs highlighted the long‑term significance of the partnership, stating:
“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 the Luang Prabang authorities and the support of the New Zealand Government, which make this shared vision possible.”
The project, funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) of New Zealand, will run until 2030, ensuring sustained support as communities adapt to evolving climate conditions.
Following the signing, a project kick‑off meeting was held to agree on implementation approaches, stakeholder roles, and coordination mechanisms. Participants affirmed their shared commitment to ensuring that the project delivers strong and lasting results for the people of Luang Prabang.
This initiative represents an important step toward supporting climate‑resilient communities, strengthening local livelihoods, and improving the lives of children and families across Lao PDR.
