Diversifying Livelihoods for Sustainable Poverty Reduction in Vietnam

The National Target Program for Sustainable Poverty Reduction in Vietnam is making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable families. In Vinh Quoi Commune, Soc Trang province, the program's focus on **agriculture in Vietnam** is empowering poor and near-poor households to escape poverty through livelihood diversification. This initiative provides resources like livestock and training to help families develop sustainable income sources. Ms. Tran Thi Huyen, a resident of Vinh Dong Hamlet, exemplifies the program's success. Previously relying on meager earnings from selling street food, Ms. Huyen's family received five piglets and feed in 2024. This support, part of the project focused on **agricultural products** and **poverty reduction**, allows her to raise pigs for additional income. "I am very grateful for the government's support," Ms. Huyen shared. "I will try my best to care for them so that my family can have an additional source of income." Ms. Huyen's story highlights the challenges faced by many families in the region. Her dedication to supporting her elderly father and her 30-year commitment to selling homemade snacks underscores the need for sustainable income solutions. The pig farming project offers a path towards greater financial security. The program's impact extends beyond individual households. Since 2022, the Vinh Quoi Commune People's Committee has invested over 1.8 billion VND in various **agricultural products**, supporting 82 households with duck, chicken, and pig farming initiatives. These projects have yielded significant returns, with participating households earning profits exceeding 20 million VND upon selling their livestock. Mr. Mai Van Ut Dep, another beneficiary in Vinh Dong Hamlet, transitioned from unstable seasonal labor to successful duck farming. With support from the program, he raised 150 ducks and generated a profit of over 10 million VND. He has since reinvested his earnings to expand his farm, demonstrating the long-term sustainability fostered by the program. Mr. Dep's innovative use of local resources, like golden apple snails, as supplementary feed further highlights the resourcefulness encouraged by the initiative. These success stories underscore the effectiveness of the government's **poverty reduction** efforts through **agricultural products**. By providing access to resources, training, and ongoing support, the program empowers communities to build sustainable livelihoods. Local authorities are committed to expanding these models, ensuring that more households have the opportunity to participate in these transformative initiatives. Mr. Huynh Van Cuong, Vice Chairman of Vinh Quoi Commune People's Committee, emphasized the program's alignment with the community's needs. "Providing livelihood support…is a practical action…gradually creating motivation for poor households to strive for a stable life." He highlighted the careful selection of beneficiaries, the ongoing monitoring and support provided, and the dedication of participating households to utilizing resources effectively. The livelihood diversification and poverty reduction model development project is proving instrumental in breaking the cycle of poverty in Vinh Quoi Commune. By fostering self-sufficiency and creating opportunities for long-term economic stability, the program is building a brighter future for families in need.