Support programmes have improved livelihoods of residents in Ea Sup district, Dak Lak province. (Photo: VNA)

The Central Highland province of Dak Lak is empowering disadvantaged households, especially ethnic groups, with targeted livelihood programmes designed to break the cycle of poverty. With coordinated efforts from authorities and local communities, these initiatives are driving positive change, transforming lives, and fostering long-term economic stability.

Effective livelihood models

In Ea Hiu commune, Krong Pak district, one of the most underprivileged areas, targeted support has yielded encouraging results. Y Gron Nie’s family, once landless and reliant on temporary labour, received four breeding goats in 2023. Within a year, they expanded their herd, generating income for their children’s education and daily expenses.

Similarly, in R’Lu Village, where nearly all 118 households were once classified as poor, government-supported livestock programmes have significantly improved conditions, reducing the number of impoverished families to just four.

Local Party members and organisations encourage local families to raise cattle and goats for economic growth, head of R’Lu village Ai Mien said, saying the residents responded enthusiastically, leading to improved livelihoods.

Proven strategies for poverty alleviation

Vo Huu Chut, Secretary of the Party Committee of Ea Hiu commune, said the commune has recently implemented poverty reduction initiatives, including vocational training, preferential loans, and labour export programmes. As a result, the local poverty rate dropped from 33.9% in 2020 to just 5.75% by the end of 2024.

According to Vice Chairwoman of the Krong Pak district People's Committee Nguyen Thi Kim Oanh, during the 2021-2025 poverty reduction programme, ethnic and low-income households have benefited significantly. Support initiatives not only help individuals but also provide families with the resources to achieve long-term financial stability.

Local authorities actively mobilise residents to participate in livestock and crop production projects, which have received strong community support. Alongside government assistance, many households contribute their labour and facilities to enhance production and improve their livelihoods.

To achieve sustainable poverty reduction, Ea Sup district has implemented three National Target Programmes alongside various livelihood support projects, including providing breeding cattle, housing, and farmland. The district has also expanded successful livestock and crop production models to ensure stable incomes for residents.

During the 2021-24 period, Dak Lak invested over 1.158 trillion VND (45.7 million USD) in 303 poverty reduction projects, focusing on cattle farming and afforestation. These efforts have reduced the provincial poverty rate from 12.79% in 2021 to 6.38% by late 2024.Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs Ayun H’Huong stressed that these programmes have transformed rural and mountainous areas, improving infrastructure and overall living standards. Looking ahead, Dak Lak aims to further expand effective models, targeting a provincial poverty rate below 3% by 2025, with a special focus on ethnic minority communities.

With continued government support, community participation, and sustainable development strategies, Dak Lak is not only reducing poverty but also laying the groundwork for long-term economic resilience.