Lao People's Democratic Republic

The political and security situation in Lao has remained stable in recent times. Limited integration with the international economy means that the country is not being seriously affected by the global financial crisis.

Nevertheless, there was little reduction in rural poverty and spikes in food and fuel prices have had an affect. 

Earning a living

Despite a number of challenges, Concern continues to help people earn a living. This work has had a steady impact, recently improving the lives of 60,352 people.

Health services

We continued to work in partnership with the National Institute of Public Health, building two new mother-and-child hospitals and delivering quality health services to an additional 2,500 people in rural areas. Our health education work reached 21,109 people.

Land entitlement

We have helped 107 families gain temporary land entitlement certificates to nearly 180 hectares of land. Four new irrigation schemes helped farmers increase production, while a new variety of rice increased yields by nearly 50%. We established 11 community rice banks and trained 55 people in rice bank management.

Weaving success

We helped 90 women in six weaving groups with loans. Raw materials and tools were provided to improve their hand looms, along with marketing and management training. We built a permanent community market and encouraged communities to organise regular trade fairs, where they sold their products directly to consumers. 

Training midwives and doctors

In district hospitals and village health clinics, we supported a number of staff to train as midwives and doctors. Innovative use of information technology facilitated medical treatment in remote communities, as village clinic staff used Skype via solar-powered broadband to consult with doctors.

Access to clean water

15,000 people gained access to safe, clean water. As well as building water systems and reservoirs, we ran awareness campaigns on personal health and hygiene.