The Women With Disability Association (WWDA) is leading an initiative to provide opportunities for women with disabilities in Laos.
The initiative, largely funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) under the Japanese government, aims to enhance the Lao handicraft sector and give individuals with disabilities the opportunity to showcase their work to an international audience.
Since its inception in 2001, WWDA has received substantial support from JICA and the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP). This collaboration has enabled the center to not only produce high-quality handcrafted goods but also expand its offerings by providing vital facilities, training, and even field trips to Japan, where individuals could learn new ideas and skills for product development.
The association officially became an association in 2021, founded by Chanhpheng Sivila, a disabled woman with a deep passion for social change. Having learned advanced handicraft skills in Japan in 1997, Chanhpheng’s mission was to bring her skills and knowledge back to Laos to help others in her community, especially disabled women, gain valuable employment opportunities.
“After I came back to Laos, I adapted those lessons to implement them here, especially for those with disabilities because I want them to have the same opportunities,” Chanhpheng said, also mentioning her dedication to creating a better future for women with disabilities.
Currently, nearly 30 disabled students from Oudomxay and Bokeo Provinces are enrolled at the center. These students are taught to produce detailed handicrafts, such as weaving, pottery, ceramics, and paper crafts, all of which are sold to foreigners as part of the center’s efforts to raise awareness and promote Lao craftsmanship globally.
In addition to the focus on craft production, WWDA is also committed to improving the quality of life for women in rural areas, many of whom have limited access to education.
“We gave them vocational training, they’ll be taught basic education first, then we coordinated with job organizations to give them a job such as in a garment factory. Also, some of them stay with us to learn more about sewing and work in textile,” Chanhpheng explained.
Despite the success of these initiatives, Chanhpheng expressed concern about the limited number of students enrolled compared to the many individuals who lack access to such opportunities. She hopes that more funding will allow the organization to extend its services to a broader group of disabled people, especially those from remote regions.
One of the staffs in WWDA.
WWDA’s vision is to continue promoting Lao handicrafts while showcasing the true value of these works, especially in partnership with other provinces with unique handicraft traditions.
“We aim to keep supporting handicrafts so that society knows its true value, also in partnership with other Provinces with different uniqueness,” said Chanhpheng, highlighting the importance of continued innovation in the sector.
To further enhance the quality and variety of products, the Japan Embassy has sent a volunteer from JICA to provide advice on new product development. Taeko Taguchi, a community developer, has spent three years volunteering at WWDA, helping with product design and offering valuable guidance to the center.
“I feel very grateful for being a volunteer here, hopefully to help develop Lao products to be better and better,” Taguchi stated.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of JICA’s Volunteer Programme, which has supported numerous projects in Laos since 1965. Through the program, over 40 volunteers currently work across the country, dedicated to strengthening the bond between Laos and Japan and contributing to Laos’ development.
Koga Toshimichi, the head of the economic section at the Japanese Embassy in Laos, emphasized the long-standing relationship between the two countries.
“The project that we implemented in Laos is not only for economic development, but also for human resources development with long-term development,” he said, reiterating Japan’s commitment to helping Laos in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Other notable projects supported by the Japanese government include the JICA MaWaSU Project, which focuses on water supply sector development, as well as the construction of new Setthathirath Hospitals in Vientiane and Chamsassak. Additionally, the Lao-Japan Institute is dedicated to human resource development in Laos.
As Laos celebrates its 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Japan, it is clear that the ongoing collaboration between the two countries continues to play a pivotal role in the development of Laos’ human resources and economy.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2P0A0144.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-04-15 01:05:002025-04-07 13:07:22Women with Disabilities Association Brings Lao Handicrafts to the Global Stage
In line with Laos’ commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as outlined in its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) launched its flagship publication, “An Energy Sector Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions for Laos.”
This report marks ACE’s first national-level initiative to guide a country on its journey towards net-zero emissions, exploring potential pathways for reducing energy sector emissions.
The energy sector remains one of the largest contributors to climate change, and this Lao Net Zero Report focuses on the adoption of various technological approaches, including renewable energy and emerging low-carbon technologies, as potential solutions.
The event was held alongside the dissemination of ACE’s other key publication, the 8th ASEAN Energy Outlook (AEO8), which was launched under Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024.
The AEO8, which will be shared across ASEAN Member States (AMS) in the coming months, provides strategic insights into optimising and decarbonising energy systems for a sustainable future. It aims to offer key findings and policy recommendations for sustainable energy planning in the region.
Dato’ Ir. Ts. Razib Dawood, Executive Director of ACE, stated, “The ASEAN Energy Outlook serves as a vital reference for shaping a sustainable energy future for the region. It provides strategic insights into optimising and decarbonising our energy systems. We are proud to begin our net zero collaboration with Laos and look forward to partnering with all AMS to accelerate progress towards climate targets, particularly in the energy sector.”
Around 40 representatives from various Lao government agencies, academic institutions, and state-owned enterprises attended the event. Participants actively engaged in a panel discussion focused on enhancing regional cooperation, knowledge sharing, and intergovernmental collaboration to achieve both national and regional climate goals.
Santisouk Phimphachanh, Senior Official on Energy Leader for Laos, noted, “The hosting of these key events emphasises Laos’s commitment to leading the region toward a sustainable, low-carbon future. ACE’s pivotal role in fostering regional cooperation in the energy sector, along with other low-carbon initiatives, is essential to achieving our climate and energy goals.”
The AEO8’s findings will be disseminated through a series of country-level events across the ASEAN Member States, supporting knowledge-sharing and capacity-building initiatives throughout the region.
Laos, as the first country to collaborate with ACE in developing a national-level report on its pathway to net zero, demonstrates its strong commitment to the energy transition and to fostering innovation for a sustainable future.
Zulfikar Yurnaidi, Manager of Energy Modelling and Policy Planning at ACE, highlighted the importance of aligning regional and national energy planning: “The 8th ASEAN Energy Outlook introduced the Carbon Neutrality Scenario (CNS) at the regional level, which has now been translated into this country-specific roadmap, with Laos as our first partner. Through the AEO and national net zero reports, ACE is committed to supporting ASEAN Member States in advancing regional cooperation for collective energy and climate goals.”
Aldilla Noor Rakhiemah, Project Manager of the ASEAN Climate Change and Energy Project (ACCEPT), added, “The launch of ‘An Energy Sector Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions of Laos’ is a pivotal milestone in Laos’s energy transition journey.
ACCEPT plays a key role in strengthening the energy-climate nexus through data-driven analysis and accelerating regional collaboration by conducting regional capacity-building efforts. This aligns with ACCEPT’s long-term goal of supporting ASEAN Member States in transitioning to a low-carbon energy system and achieving their net-zero targets.”
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Laotian-Times-Feature-Image-1.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-04-14 01:02:002025-04-07 13:04:32ASEAN Center for Energy Launches Net Zero Emissions Roadmap for Laos
Luang Prabang has experienced steady economic growth over the past five years, with an average annual growth rate of 6.9 percent.
The province’s gross domestic product (GDP) reached LAK 3,989 billion (around USD 183 million), surpassing the initial target of LAK 931 billion (about USD 42 million), according to Saveuy Silavanh, Standing Party Member and Deputy Mayor of Luang Prabang district during the 8th Congress of the Luang Prabang Party Committee on 24 March.
This economic growth translates to an average annual income of LAK 39 million (approximately USD 1,897) per person.
One of the most significant contributors to Luang Prabang’s economic success is its thriving tourism sector, Saveuy noted.
In 2024, the province welcomed over 2.3 million visitors, surpassing the initial target of 900,000. According to the Luang Prabang Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism, the UNESCO Heritage Town hosted 1,532,394 foreign visitors last year.
To support the continued expansion of tourism, Saveuy said that the authorities have focused on upgrading infrastructure, including building concrete roads to villages and improving access routes to popular attractions.
Additionally, tourism-related facilities have expanded rapidly, while major infrastructure projects such as the Lao-China Railway and Luang Prabang International Airport continue to undergo upgrades.
Beyond tourism, Luang Prabang has made progress in human resource development, public healthcare, rural development, and poverty alleviation. As a result of these efforts, the government officially recognized the province as a “comprehensively strong city” and a “poverty-free city” in February.
Investment has also played a crucial role in the province’s economic development. Currently, there are 72 investment projects in Luang Prabang, with a combined value exceeding USD 174 million. Of these, 53 domestic projects account for more than USD 140 million, while 19 foreign investment projects contribute over USD 33 million.
With continued efforts to improve infrastructure and attract investment, Luang Prabang is poised for sustained economic and tourism growth in the coming years.
Women with Disabilities Association Brings Lao Handicrafts to the Global Stage
The Women With Disability Association (WWDA) is leading an initiative to provide opportunities for women with disabilities in Laos.
The initiative, largely funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) under the Japanese government, aims to enhance the Lao handicraft sector and give individuals with disabilities the opportunity to showcase their work to an international audience.
Since its inception in 2001, WWDA has received substantial support from JICA and the Asia Center for Air Pollution Research (ACAP). This collaboration has enabled the center to not only produce high-quality handcrafted goods but also expand its offerings by providing vital facilities, training, and even field trips to Japan, where individuals could learn new ideas and skills for product development.
The association officially became an association in 2021, founded by Chanhpheng Sivila, a disabled woman with a deep passion for social change. Having learned advanced handicraft skills in Japan in 1997, Chanhpheng’s mission was to bring her skills and knowledge back to Laos to help others in her community, especially disabled women, gain valuable employment opportunities.
“After I came back to Laos, I adapted those lessons to implement them here, especially for those with disabilities because I want them to have the same opportunities,” Chanhpheng said, also mentioning her dedication to creating a better future for women with disabilities.
Currently, nearly 30 disabled students from Oudomxay and Bokeo Provinces are enrolled at the center. These students are taught to produce detailed handicrafts, such as weaving, pottery, ceramics, and paper crafts, all of which are sold to foreigners as part of the center’s efforts to raise awareness and promote Lao craftsmanship globally.
In addition to the focus on craft production, WWDA is also committed to improving the quality of life for women in rural areas, many of whom have limited access to education.
“We gave them vocational training, they’ll be taught basic education first, then we coordinated with job organizations to give them a job such as in a garment factory. Also, some of them stay with us to learn more about sewing and work in textile,” Chanhpheng explained.
Despite the success of these initiatives, Chanhpheng expressed concern about the limited number of students enrolled compared to the many individuals who lack access to such opportunities. She hopes that more funding will allow the organization to extend its services to a broader group of disabled people, especially those from remote regions.
WWDA’s vision is to continue promoting Lao handicrafts while showcasing the true value of these works, especially in partnership with other provinces with unique handicraft traditions.
“We aim to keep supporting handicrafts so that society knows its true value, also in partnership with other Provinces with different uniqueness,” said Chanhpheng, highlighting the importance of continued innovation in the sector.
To further enhance the quality and variety of products, the Japan Embassy has sent a volunteer from JICA to provide advice on new product development. Taeko Taguchi, a community developer, has spent three years volunteering at WWDA, helping with product design and offering valuable guidance to the center.
“I feel very grateful for being a volunteer here, hopefully to help develop Lao products to be better and better,” Taguchi stated.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of JICA’s Volunteer Programme, which has supported numerous projects in Laos since 1965. Through the program, over 40 volunteers currently work across the country, dedicated to strengthening the bond between Laos and Japan and contributing to Laos’ development.
Koga Toshimichi, the head of the economic section at the Japanese Embassy in Laos, emphasized the long-standing relationship between the two countries.
“The project that we implemented in Laos is not only for economic development, but also for human resources development with long-term development,” he said, reiterating Japan’s commitment to helping Laos in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Other notable projects supported by the Japanese government include the JICA MaWaSU Project, which focuses on water supply sector development, as well as the construction of new Setthathirath Hospitals in Vientiane and Chamsassak. Additionally, the Lao-Japan Institute is dedicated to human resource development in Laos.
As Laos celebrates its 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Japan, it is clear that the ongoing collaboration between the two countries continues to play a pivotal role in the development of Laos’ human resources and economy.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/27/women-with-disabilities-association-brings-lao-handicrafts-to-the-global-stage/
ASEAN Center for Energy Launches Net Zero Emissions Roadmap for Laos
In line with Laos’ commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as outlined in its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) launched its flagship publication, “An Energy Sector Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions for Laos.”
This report marks ACE’s first national-level initiative to guide a country on its journey towards net-zero emissions, exploring potential pathways for reducing energy sector emissions.
The energy sector remains one of the largest contributors to climate change, and this Lao Net Zero Report focuses on the adoption of various technological approaches, including renewable energy and emerging low-carbon technologies, as potential solutions.
The event was held alongside the dissemination of ACE’s other key publication, the 8th ASEAN Energy Outlook (AEO8), which was launched under Laos’ ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024.
The AEO8, which will be shared across ASEAN Member States (AMS) in the coming months, provides strategic insights into optimising and decarbonising energy systems for a sustainable future. It aims to offer key findings and policy recommendations for sustainable energy planning in the region.
Dato’ Ir. Ts. Razib Dawood, Executive Director of ACE, stated, “The ASEAN Energy Outlook serves as a vital reference for shaping a sustainable energy future for the region. It provides strategic insights into optimising and decarbonising our energy systems. We are proud to begin our net zero collaboration with Laos and look forward to partnering with all AMS to accelerate progress towards climate targets, particularly in the energy sector.”
Around 40 representatives from various Lao government agencies, academic institutions, and state-owned enterprises attended the event. Participants actively engaged in a panel discussion focused on enhancing regional cooperation, knowledge sharing, and intergovernmental collaboration to achieve both national and regional climate goals.
Santisouk Phimphachanh, Senior Official on Energy Leader for Laos, noted, “The hosting of these key events emphasises Laos’s commitment to leading the region toward a sustainable, low-carbon future. ACE’s pivotal role in fostering regional cooperation in the energy sector, along with other low-carbon initiatives, is essential to achieving our climate and energy goals.”
The AEO8’s findings will be disseminated through a series of country-level events across the ASEAN Member States, supporting knowledge-sharing and capacity-building initiatives throughout the region.
Laos, as the first country to collaborate with ACE in developing a national-level report on its pathway to net zero, demonstrates its strong commitment to the energy transition and to fostering innovation for a sustainable future.
Zulfikar Yurnaidi, Manager of Energy Modelling and Policy Planning at ACE, highlighted the importance of aligning regional and national energy planning: “The 8th ASEAN Energy Outlook introduced the Carbon Neutrality Scenario (CNS) at the regional level, which has now been translated into this country-specific roadmap, with Laos as our first partner. Through the AEO and national net zero reports, ACE is committed to supporting ASEAN Member States in advancing regional cooperation for collective energy and climate goals.”
Aldilla Noor Rakhiemah, Project Manager of the ASEAN Climate Change and Energy Project (ACCEPT), added, “The launch of ‘An Energy Sector Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions of Laos’ is a pivotal milestone in Laos’s energy transition journey.
ACCEPT plays a key role in strengthening the energy-climate nexus through data-driven analysis and accelerating regional collaboration by conducting regional capacity-building efforts. This aligns with ACCEPT’s long-term goal of supporting ASEAN Member States in transitioning to a low-carbon energy system and achieving their net-zero targets.”
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/25/asean-center-for-energy-launches-net-zero-emissions-roadmap-for-laos/
Luang Prabang Economy Sees Steady Growth, Surpassing GDP Targets
Luang Prabang has experienced steady economic growth over the past five years, with an average annual growth rate of 6.9 percent.
The province’s gross domestic product (GDP) reached LAK 3,989 billion (around USD 183 million), surpassing the initial target of LAK 931 billion (about USD 42 million), according to Saveuy Silavanh, Standing Party Member and Deputy Mayor of Luang Prabang district during the 8th Congress of the Luang Prabang Party Committee on 24 March.
This economic growth translates to an average annual income of LAK 39 million (approximately USD 1,897) per person.
One of the most significant contributors to Luang Prabang’s economic success is its thriving tourism sector, Saveuy noted.
In 2024, the province welcomed over 2.3 million visitors, surpassing the initial target of 900,000. According to the Luang Prabang Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism, the UNESCO Heritage Town hosted 1,532,394 foreign visitors last year.
To support the continued expansion of tourism, Saveuy said that the authorities have focused on upgrading infrastructure, including building concrete roads to villages and improving access routes to popular attractions.
Additionally, tourism-related facilities have expanded rapidly, while major infrastructure projects such as the Lao-China Railway and Luang Prabang International Airport continue to undergo upgrades.
Beyond tourism, Luang Prabang has made progress in human resource development, public healthcare, rural development, and poverty alleviation. As a result of these efforts, the government officially recognized the province as a “comprehensively strong city” and a “poverty-free city” in February.
Investment has also played a crucial role in the province’s economic development. Currently, there are 72 investment projects in Luang Prabang, with a combined value exceeding USD 174 million. Of these, 53 domestic projects account for more than USD 140 million, while 19 foreign investment projects contribute over USD 33 million.
With continued efforts to improve infrastructure and attract investment, Luang Prabang is poised for sustained economic and tourism growth in the coming years.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/25/luang-prabang-economy-sees-steady-growth-surpassing-gdp-targets/