The Agricultural Development and Social Assistance Association (ADSA), with a grant received from ALiSEA in 2023, is embarking on a new initiative to empower young people and women in Naxaythong District, Vientiane Capital. The project, titled “Youth and Women Empowerment for Agroecology” (YWEA), was launched in collaboration with Phan-Thin Social Enterprise (Phan-Thin) and officially endorsed by the Naxaythong District Office of Agriculture and Forestry on May 24, 2024.
Co-chaired by Mr. Phouvone Phonglathkeo, Deputy Mayor of Naxaythong District and Mrs. Nuanchanh Saochanthala, ADSA’s President
The YWEA project focuses on promoting sustainable agricultural practices through agroecology, with a specific emphasis on empowering young people, particularly women, to become active participants in the agricultural sector. The initiative aims to achieve this through a multi-pronged approach:
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Building Awareness and Capacity: YWEA will provide training and workshops to equip young people and women with the knowledge and skills necessary to adopt green and environmentally friendly agricultural techniques. This will empower them to cultivate high-quality produce while minimizing environmental impact.
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Fostering Collaboration: The project will establish young farmer groups, creating a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration among participants. This will not only strengthen their individual capacities but also foster a sense of community and support.
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Market Linkages: YWEA recognizes the importance of market access for the success of young farmers. The project will work towards establishing connections between these young producers and local markets, ensuring they have a viable outlet for their agricultural products.
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Knowledge Sharing through Media: The project understands the power of communication and information sharing. YWEA will produce educational materials specifically targeted towards young women farmers. These materials will be disseminated through social media and relevant networks, promoting the project’s goals and achievements to a wider audience.
A total of 20 participants from related parties attended the meeting
With a project duration of 14 months, YWEA has the potential to significantly impact the agricultural landscape in Naxaythong District. By empowering young people and women with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in agroecology, the project can contribute to a more sustainable, equitable, and food-secure future for the community.
For more information about the ALiSEA 2023 grant program, please visit: https://ali-sea.org/small-grant-facility-2023/