Project Description
Lao PDR is highly vulnerable to climate change due to its status as one of the least developed countries and the sensitivity of local livelihoods to existing climate variability. In response, the government has prioritized adaptation in key sectors through the National Adaptation Program for Action (NAPA). To operationalize these goals at the local level, UNDP/UNCDF implemented the “Effective Governance for Small‐Scale Rural Infrastructure and Disaster Preparedness in a Changing Climate” project in Saravane and Sekong provinces. The project aimed to improve the governance of small-scale rural infrastructure and ensure local planning processes are responsive to the needs of communities most at risk from climate impacts.
Objectives, Activities and Results
ICEM was engaged to conduct Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessments (CRVAs) on water infrastructure assets such as irrigation systems, reservoirs, and bridges, and to build capacity of local practitioners in applying CRVA methodology. The assessment framework combined baseline climate data, local field surveys, and participatory mapping of past extreme events to ensure the approach was grounded in the realities of the two pilot provinces. Outcomes included strengthened sub-national governance for resilient infrastructure planning and the mainstreaming of climate change adaptation into district and provincial planning processes. These results support long-term resilience building and align with Lao PDR’s national adaptation priorities.
