The launch event was attended by Permanent Vice Chairwoman Trang Thi Xuan of Son La Provincial People's Committee, Ms.Cherie Anne Russell, Development Counselor at the Australian Embassy, district and city representatives from the project area, businesses, Cowater International project managers, and project partners.

Scenes from the GREAT 2 Sơn La Project Launch

The Gender-Responsive Equitable Agriculture and Tourism (GREAT 2) funded by the Australian Government, runs from 2017 to 2027 in Son La Province with a total aid value of AUD 67.4 million. The project aims to empower women, particularly ethnic minority women, in Son La.

Phase 1 of the project in Son La (2018-2022) boosted incomes for thousands of women, created new jobs, increased confidence in 86% of participants, and attracted significant private investment in agriculture and tourism.

Conference Attendees

The project focuses on developing agricultural market systems and boosting tourism capabilities to enhance women’s economic empowerment. Over 15,000 women, 70% of whom are ethnic minorities, in Son La are expected to benefit from the GREAT 2 Son La Project.

The project is expected to boost income, socio-economic participation, and confidence among women in their families, communities, and businesses. It will also support Son La Province in achieving national target programs and Vietnam’s gender equality strategy.

Permanent Vice Chairwoman of the Son La Provincial People's Committee Trang Thi Xuan delivered the opening speech of the Launching Ceremony of GREAT 2 Son La Program

At the launch ceremony, Permanent Vice Chairwoman Trang Thi Xuan of Son La Province highlighted that, following the positive results of Phase 1, the province continues to receive support from the Australian Government through the GREAT 2 Son La Project. Son La has established the project Steering Committee, organized the management structure, allocated project funds, and completed all necessary documentation and guidelines. With preparations now complete, the province is committed to promptly implementing project activities following the launch event.

Ms. Trang Thi Xuan and Ms. Cherie Russell exchange the GREAT 2 Son La Project implementation agreement

Tuan Quoc
Translated by Huyen Vu