(KPL) On November 22, 2024, the Government of Japan announced grant assistance of USD 186,000 for the construction of a fishway in Vientiane Province under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP). This initiative aims to improve the livelihoods and nutritional well-being of local communities by preserving ecosystems in the Kouang River basin.

The project, located in Vangvieng District, addresses challenges posed by an irrigation weir that has disrupted fish migration, leading to a decline in fish populations and negatively impacting local fisheries. The fishway is expected to facilitate fish migration, support ecosystem recovery, and boost the community's income and protein sources.

The grant contract was signed by Mr. Koizumi Tsutomu, Ambassador of Japan to Laos, and Mr. Bounthan Herchoutou, Director of the Office of Agriculture and Forestry in Vangvieng District. The ceremony was witnessed by Mr. Khamphan Sitthidampha, Governor of Vientiane Province, and Dr. Anoulak Kittikhoun, Chief Executive Officer of the Mekong River Commission (MRC) Secretariat.

Ambassador Koizumi underscored the significance of the project, stating, "The Mekong River is one of the richest inland fishing grounds in the world, and freshwater fish are a vital protein source for the people of Laos. The fishway will help restore fish ecosystems and improve livelihoods by increasing fishery incomes and enhancing nutrition."

This initiative was developed with support from the MRC and aligns with Japan's longstanding collaboration with the commission, which began in 1995. The fishway design adheres to the "Fish-Friendly Irrigation" guidelines completed in 2022 under the MRC's initiative with technical backing from Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries.

Since 1992, Japan has provided over USD 3 million to Vientiane Province for health, education, infrastructure, and agriculture projects. Ambassador Koizumi reaffirmed Japan's commitment to supporting socio-economic development in Laos, emphasizing the shared goal of leaving "no one behind."

This fishway project highlights Japan's ongoing efforts to address regional disparities and support sustainable development in Laos at the grassroots level.

KPL