Mrs Keoamphone Souvannaphoum and Mr Bounphet Tansouphanh exchange the signed MOU on improved access to safe drinking water in remote communities.

Phongsaly, CARE International team up for safe water access in northern Laos

Laos’ northernmost province of Phongsaly and CARE International in Laos have joined forces to expand access to safe and sustainable water in some of the country’s most vulnerable communities.
The provincial Health Department, representing the Ministry of Health, and CARE International in Laos on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to implement a new initiative.
Titled “Strengthening Water Access for Climate Resilience in Phongsaly Province”, the project aims to improve year-round access to safe and sustainable water for communities in remote and climate-vulnerable areas in Mai and Samphan districts.
This five-year initiative is expected to benefit an estimated 14,658 people in 15 communities.
The MOU was signed by Country Director of CARE International in Laos, Mrs Keoamphone Souvannaphoum and Deputy Director of Phongsaly Provincial Health Department, Mr Bounphet Tansouphanh.
Set to improve daily living and hygienic consumption, the project will work to ensure that every household in the target areas has consistent, year-round access to safe drinking water.
The project will work with the targeted communities by developing sustainable, locally appropriate water supply systems and helping communities manage their resources for the long haul.
Beyond infrastructure, the initiative will strengthen local capacity at both village and district levels, equipping people with the knowledge, tools, and governance structures needed to sustain water systems over time.
The project will also pilot new climate-resilient strategies that promote community-driven forest and watershed protection, ensuring water source sustainability.
The collaboration reflects a broad and inclusive approach, bringing together not only CARE International in Laos and the Provincial Health Department, but also the Hygiene and Health Promotion Department and the Centre of Water Supply and Environmental Health to work closely to realise the project.
Supporting water security, public health, and environmental sustainability, the initiative is closely aligned with national development priorities and global climate goals.
As many communities across Laos face serious climate pressures, this partnership marks a hopeful shift towards inclusive solutions that place the people and their environment at the centre.

By Advertorial Desk
 (Latest Update June 25, 2025)