by Phomphong Laoin
VIENTIANE (Vientiane Times) - The government of the Republic of Korea has provided grant aid of over 10 billion kip (US$1.2 million) to implement a flood recovery programme in Attapeu province.
The “Integrated Recovery Programme in Attapeu province” is in the form of grant aid through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). Last week’s grant provision is part of a total US$11.5 million for a 5-year programme to be implemented from 2019 to 2023.
Further funding agreements will be signed for future stages of the recovery programme in Attapeu.
The funding agreement for the US$1.2 million grant was signed last week at the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare by Director General of the ministry’s Department of Social Welfare, Mr Vilaypong Sisomvang, and Resident Representative of the KOICA Office in Laos, Mr Sungsoo Oh.
Minister of Labour and Social Welfare and Chairman of the National Disaster Prevention and Control Committee, Dr Khampheng Saysompheng, and Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Laos, Mr Shin Sung-soon also attended the event.
The programme aims to provide support for the five sectors of health, education, livelihood improvement (agriculture and vocational training), child protection, and disaster risk management.
The overall objective of the programme is to support the Lao government’s disaster recovery actions and to build the resilience of flood-affected people, especially those still living in temporary shelters in Sanamxay district.
Specifically, the initiative will include improving health facility service quality as well as the knowledge and behaviour of the community with regard to public health and hygiene, and building the capacity of teachers and officials to make schools and communities more resilient to disasters.
The programme will support the livelihoods of temporary residents and promote employment for victims through vocational training.
It will also ensure that girls and boys, especially the most vulnerable, are protected from violence, exploitation, abuse and neglect within an evidence-informed child and family protection system, so they reach their full potential. In addition, it will strengthen the capacity of local government officials and communities to manage emergency disaster assistance effectively.
KOICA hopes the initiative will improve the lives of victims, allowing them to have jobs that earn income from the supported activities, as well as strengthen the Lao government’s systems to better prepare for future unexpected disasters.
