The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Embassy of France in the Lao PDR have launched a new project focused on improving community nutrition in Sekong Province, one of the most food-insecure areas of Laos. The initiative, which is supported by EUR 500,000 in funding from France's Food Assistance Programme, will encourage women's farmer groups to supply fresh, locally grown food to schools in the Thateng district, benefiting over 10,000 people across 15 communities.

Sekong Province faces high rates of food insecurity and undernutrition, with 29 percent of its population experiencing seasonal food scarcity. These challenges significantly impact children's health and their ability to learn. The new project addresses these issues by promoting local food production and supporting women-led farming groups to provide nutritious meals for local schoolchildren, thereby improving both the nutrition and sustainability of school meal programs.

“This project combines innovative social behavior change strategies with support for women farmers, aiming to enhance the nutritional value of school lunches and reduce their carbon footprint,” said Marc-Andre Prost, WFP Representative and Country Director. Siv-Leng Chhuor, Ambassador of France to Laos, highlighted the importance of school nutrition programs and reaffirmed France's continued support to the Lao Government's efforts to address malnutrition and promote sustainable development in the region.