Luang Namtha:Mr. Koizumi Tsutomu, Ambassador of Japan to the Lao PDR, has signed a grant agreement with a representative of the provincial authority for the construction of a new irrigation system in Luang Namtha. The signing ceremony was attended by Pol. Lt. Gen. Khamking Phouilamanivong, Secretary of the Luang Namtha Provincial Party Committee.
According to Lao News Agency, the existing water intake weir in Mai Village was destroyed in 2024 due to a typhoon, leading to insufficient water supply for rice fields. This resulted in three-fourths of the rice fields being left fallow during the dry season, significantly reducing the annual harvest.
The Government of Japan is assisting in constructing a new concrete water intake weir and irrigation canals to restore adequate water supply to the rice fields. Ambassador Koizumi expressed hope that the project would not only build physical structures but also enhance the daily living environment for local residents.
The Grant Assistance for Grassroots Security Projects (GGP) provides funding for small-scale projects benefiting local communities by supporting economic and social development. Japan has contributed over USD1.19 million to the education and irrigation sectors in Luang Namtha Province. As part of its commitment to reducing regional disparities in socio-economic development, Japan will continue to support initiatives that improve basic living standards at the grassroots level in the Lao PDR.