Luang Prabang, 25–27 September 2025 – The Integrated Water Resource Management and Ecosystem-based Adaptation (IWRM-EbA) project held a three-day consultation workshop in Luang Prabang City to discuss and finalize priority interventions for the conservation protected forests and headwater areas, as well as the implementation of ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) measures. The workshop brought together 37 participants, including representatives from the Department of Water Resources, UNDP, provincial and district agricultural and forestry offices, local communities, Souphanouvong University, and other relevant stakeholders.

The IWRM-EbA project aims to enhance conservation zone management and restore degraded headwater areas to improve ecological integrity and the delivery of ecosystem services. Activities include natural regeneration, enrichment planting, and reforestation using ecologically appropriate species to restore ecosystem functioning. These interventions are designed to reduce soil erosion, enhance water infiltration, and strengthen climate resilience in vulnerable areas. Following earlier field visits and consultations, the project identified key interventions for Kokngew and Lak 10 villages to address recurrent flooding, as well as pilot EbA interventions at the wetland within Souphanouvong University. The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to review and finalize work plans, clarify responsibilities, and agree on timelines and resource requirements.

During the workshop, participants discussed and finalized the flash flood mitigation work plan for Kokngew and Lak 10 villages, including infrastructure development, ecosystem restoration, and community engagement measures. They also reviewed and finalized the EbA wetland management work plan for Souphanouvong University, focusing on ecological restoration, research opportunities, and student engagement. The workshop strengthened collaboration between communities, local government, academia, and UNDP, providing a clear path for implementation in late 2025 and 2026.

By the end of the workshop, stakeholders reached agreement on coordination mechanisms and responsibilities, endorsed the flood mitigation plans for the villages, and finalized the wetland restoration plan for Souphanouvong University. These efforts are expected to strengthen partnerships between government agencies, local communities, and academic institutions, ensuring the effective implementation of ecosystem-based adaptation measures and the long-term sustainability of water resource management and climate resilience initiatives in Luang Prabang.

The consultation workshop reflects the IWRM-EbA project’s commitment to promoting climate-resilient water resource management and sustainable ecosystem restoration in the region, aligning with national priorities for climate adaptation and community-based resource management.


Contact for Further Information:
For media inquiries, please contact:
Phouphet Chittaphone, Database and Communication Officer, IWRM-EbA Project
Department of Water Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment
Email: [email protected] Tel: +8562058562532