Project presentation
Facing high gender inequalities and rural poverty in Laos, Mékong Enfants des Rizières (MEDR), in partnership with the local association PNLCA, strengthens its action in Dongkouay village by training women in rice-fish farming and insect breeding to diversify their diets and generate additional income.
The women, hosted at Maison Khoa Pa, the hatchery, and the aquaponics building, receive both practical and theoretical training on fish farming, vegetable production through aquaponics, and insect reproduction. Necessary materials are provided free of charge to the most vulnerable participants, and trained women will become trainers themselves, passing on their skills to other beneficiaries. They also raise awareness among families about the nutritional value of fish and insects in daily diets.
The project plans to train 20 women from the village, as well as 15 vulnerable women from other villages over three years. Four women will be paid staff involved in daily project management, including construction, cooking, guarding, and fish collection. This initiative aims to improve household food sovereignty, diversify income sources, and create a positive environmental impact by reducing pressure on the Mekong River. Regular follow-up and close support ensure the project’s sustainability and the sharing of best practices within the community.
