A total of 900 metric tonnes of rice will be distributed to 100,000 people (18,000 families) in 16 districts of Oudomxay, Luang Namtha, Sekong and Salavanh Provinces.
"The food inflation rate has experienced a significant surge recently, with a 47 percent increase, the highest level since March 2000. The rice donation will bring great relief to those most affected by the persistently high costs of living, particularly the rising prices of food and fuel," said Leepao Yang, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Welfare.
Each person will receive 8 kg of rice, enough to meet their essential food needs for 21 days. This assistance will help families bridge the gap during the lean season, when household rice reserves are often depleted prior to harvest.
"The Lao Red Cross is tasked by the Government of Lao PDR to respond to humanitarian challenges amongst the population. We are proud to collaborate with WFP in responding to the urgent food needs of the affected population. Our utmost priority is to ensure the smooth implementation of the project by working closely with the provincial and district authorities in registering the eligible households, as well as providing timely food assistance," said Prof. Dr. Phouthone Muongpak, President of Lao Red Cross.
The distributions will commence in July and will be led by the Ministry together with Lao Red Cross, Swiss Red Cross and WFP.
"We know that currently, 60 percent of the population in Laos is resorting to coping strategies to make ends meet, such as spending savings and borrowing money to buy food. With 16 percent of the rural population now experiencing food insecurity, it is important that we act now with urgent food assistance to those most in need. Our response today will not only help them get through the lean season but also protect their assets and speed up their recovery," said WFP Country Director and Representative Jan Delbaere.
The distributions have been made possible by generous donations from Ireland and the Republic of Korea.
