CARE Supports Hoa Binh Residents to Develop Sustainable Hemp Products

	NUOY: Bringing Miracle of Medicine to Children with Birth Defects in Vietnam
	ORBIS, Central Eye Hospital Fight Blindness in Vietnam

Green hemp has long been cultivated by the people of Hoa Binh through intercropping and crop rotation during dry periods when rice cultivation is not viable. However, reliance on manual harvesting has prolonged the production cycle, limiting productivity and reducing income.

To address this challenge, since 2023, the “Moving Forward” project—funded by the Embassy of Ireland in Vietnam, CARE, Plan International Vietnam, and the Research Center for Community Development Initiatives (RIC)—has helped farmers invest in modern harvesting equipment. One notable advancement is the hemp bark stripping machine, which has reduced processing time from 60 days to 45 days. As a result, the number of harvests per year has increased, significantly improving household incomes.

The project-funded hemp bark stripping machine significantly reduces processing time, enhancing efficiency and productivity. (Photo: CARE)

Beyond its economic benefits, the development of green hemp also fosters environmentally friendly agricultural practices. The "planting one year, harvesting ten years" model not only reduces investment and maintenance costs but also optimizes the use of agricultural by-products, minimizes waste, and aligns with the principles of circular agriculture and sustainable development. Many households in Lang hamlet have actively expanded their cultivation areas and shared their experiences to promote and replicate this model.

According to a CARE report, the "Moving Forward" project is now entering Phase II, running from September 2023 to August 2028. This phase aims to enhance the quality of life and self-reliance of ethnic minorities in particularly challenging regions. The project focuses on 15 communes across three provinces: Quang Tri (six communes in Dakrong and Huong Hoa districts), Hoa Binh (four communes in Da Bac and Lac Son districts), and Ha Giang (five communes in Xin Man and Vi Xuyen districts).

With a community-centered approach, the project encourages active participation in socio-economic development while supporting the implementation of policies related to ethnic groups, rural development, and adaptation to natural disasters and climate change.

CARE supports Hoa Binh people to develop sustainable green hemp. (Photo: CARE)

Speaking at the launch ceremony of Phase II of the project on November 28, 2023, Seán Farrell, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Ireland to Vietnam, highlighted the project's significance as one of Ireland's most important initiatives in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. He emphasized that the project supports the implementation of National Target Programs for mountainous areas and ethnic minority communities, aligning with Ireland's cooperation priorities in Vietnam. Its content is built upon Ireland's extensive experience in assisting ethnic minorities and vulnerable groups in the country.

Hoang Gia Long, Standing Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Ha Giang province, affirmed the practical impact of the project. He noted that it plays a crucial role in helping communities, particularly women, girls, and people with disabilities, gain access to essential services and engage in economic development models. By doing so, they can enhance their self-reliance, strengthen their resilience to climate change, and elevate their position within their families, communities, and society.

"I hope that the localities benefiting from the project in the three provinces will implement it effectively and achieve the set goals for the 2023-2028 period," said Hoang Gia Long.

WHO Launches Platform To Provide Free Cancer Drugs For Children On February 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched a new platform to provide free cancer drugs to thousands of children in low- and middle-income ...

State President: Health Care is a Key Focus in Vietnam's Development Strategy Vietnam's well-developed medical network has ensured healthcare accessibility for citizens across urban areas, remote regions, and mountainous terrains. Combined with immunisation programs and proactive disease ...