Partnership Increases Productivity and Profits in the Lao PDR

Abstract

The pilot projects and the subsequent rollout of subprojects under the SNRMPEP promoted the value of ownership and partnership among the grassroots, private sector, and the government. This, in turn, has improved farming and natural resource management practices, as well as incomes in the Lao PDR. The capacity building activities for the VDC, PAFO, DAFO, and the villages enhanced the government’s capacity to protect its own natural resources, and has enabled these groups to develop their own plans and visions for sustainability. The project has also empowered farmer groups to band together as a set of producers which rally around a single product, using improved and sustainable farming practices. The project also supported the private sector in expanding its own supply by linking them up with the farmer groups. The way the project has enhanced each of these sectors' capacity has allowed them not only to value their own tasks and businesses, but their natural resources as well. By banding together for a winwin partnership, each partner grew stronger through increased capacities, efficiency, and incomes.