The Department of Water Resources Management, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), recently hosted a signing ceremony to formalize the project document for the GEF-8 initiative
The Department of Water Resources Management, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), held a signing ceremony to launch the GEF-8 project titled “Enhancing Water Security, Biodiversity, and Resilience of Livelihoods through Integrated Water Resources Management and Ecosystem Restoration in Vietnam’s Red River Basin.”
The GEF-8 project is built on solid scientific principles, inclusive governance, and a deep respect for the unique environmental and cultural aspects of the Red River basin. Through the restoration and protection of vital ecosystems, the initiative empowers local communities and encourages the active involvement of women and ethnic minorities in sustainable land and water management practices. This approach aims to foster social equity and enhance the effectiveness of natural resource conservation.
At the signing ceremony, Director General of the Department of Water Resources Management, Chau Tran Vinh, expressed his gratitude for the continued support and collaboration from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Office in Vietnam, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the International Centre for Environmental Management (ICEM), and other partners. He highlighted their ongoing efforts toward the shared goal of sustainable water resources development.
“Today’s signing marks a significant milestone in our cooperative journey. It provides an opportunity for all involved parties to exchange ideas and align on implementation strategies, ensuring the project’s effectiveness, quality, and long-term sustainability. This event also paves the way for further opportunities for collaboration in water resources management,” stated Director General Chau Tran Vinh.
Rémi Nono Womdim, the FAO Representative in Vietnam, highlighted that the project serves as a testament to the strong and lasting partnership between the Government of Vietnam, FAO, and GEF.
“This project has been crucial in strengthening institutional coordination and aligning policies among key stakeholders. It ensures that the actions taken are both effective and in line with Vietnam’s national priorities. Furthermore, it supports Vietnam’s environmental commitments on the global stage, particularly its contributions to international environmental goals,” said Mr. Rémi Nono Womdim.
The Red River – Thai Binh River basin, one of Vietnam’s key economic regions, is currently facing a variety of significant challenges, including the impacts of development activities, environmental pollution, ecosystem degradation, and an unsustainable use of water resources. These issues threaten the long-term viability of the region’s natural systems and resources.
To address these urgent concerns, the Department of Water Resources Management, in close collaboration with the FAO, has designed and is implementing the GEF-8 project titled “Enhancing Water Security, Biodiversity, and Resilience of Livelihoods through Integrated Water Resources Management and Ecosystem Restoration in Vietnam’s Red River Basin” under the GEF Integrated Ecosystem Restoration Program.
The project will span across several provinces within the Red River – Thai Binh River Basin, including Ha Giang, Lao Cai, Lai Chau, Dien Bien, Son La, Hoa Binh, Phu Tho, Tuyen Quang, Yen Bai, Lang Son, Thai Nguyen, Bac Kan, Bac Giang, Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, Hai Duong, Ninh Binh, Thai Binh, Nam Dinh, and Hanoi (excluding border communes and other areas restricted by current regulations).
Aligned with the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030), the GEF-8 project contributes to Vietnam’s goals of achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supports the country’s international commitments on climate change, biodiversity conservation, and combating desertification.
