Xieng Khouang Agricultural Development Project

The province lies along the border with Viet Nam, but access is very difficult because of its mountainous terrain. The most productive land is in the valleys, watered by numerous rivers flowing from the highlands. There are three main ethnic groups living in the area. Most grow rice and some maize, and keep poultry, pigs and cattle.

The project objectives were to improve food security and increase incomes for poor rural households, and also to help eliminate opium poppy cultivation by supporting the creation of alternative livelihoods. Activities included:

• developing livestock production by distributing cattle to poor families and improving animal health services
• promoting greater equality of access to resources and services
• developing irrigation systems
• providing rural financial services
• setting up agricultural extension services
• rehabilitating roads

Source: IFAD