Cuong Loi solves the 'problem' of sustainable poverty reduction.

Cuong Loi commune is a mountainous area facing many difficulties, with a high percentage of poor and near-poor households. In this context, poverty reduction is not just about immediate support, but a long-term problem requiring the coordinated efforts of the government and a change in mindset from the people themselves.

Economic models that are suited to local conditions contribute to raising people's incomes.

According to the leaders of Cuong Loi Commune People's Committee, the commune currently has 1,281 households, including 394 poor households (30.76%) and 70 near-poor households (5.46%). The majority of poor households are ethnic minorities living scattered in highland villages, with limited production resources and livelihoods primarily based on small-scale, unstable agriculture and forestry. Many households suffer from multiple deficiencies, including unemployment, housing, access to clean water, sanitation, and basic social services.

In this context, the implementation of the National Target Program for Sustainable Poverty Reduction has been identified by the commune as a key task.

During the period 2022-2025, the commune implemented numerous projects and sub-projects with a total budget of over 4 billion VND, focusing on key areas such as livelihood diversification, production development support, capacity building for local people, and communication on multidimensional poverty reduction.

One approach considered suitable for local conditions is to support people in developing small-scale but practical livestock and crop farming models.

Through community support projects such as poultry farming, native pig farming, corn cultivation, and rice cultivation, many poor households have had the opportunity to gradually improve their income. Along with poultry farming, many other economic models proactively developed by the people are also emerging.

Most notably, the breeding of white horses in Van Hoc village is a prominent activity, with nearly 30 households participating. This model is highly valued by the locals because it suits the natural conditions, is less prone to disease, requires relatively low initial investment costs, and provides stable economic value.

In addition, many households have boldly invested in planting fruit trees such as oranges, tangerines, pears, and plums, gradually transforming the crop structure and improving land use efficiency.

Notably, during the implementation of poverty reduction models, the commune did not apply methods mechanically but flexibly selected support approaches suitable for each village and target group, while encouraging people to proactively register to participate, limiting the mentality of waiting and relying on others. Along with the implementation of livelihood development projects, social security policies were also fully and promptly implemented by Cuong Loi commune.

The model of raising white horses provides a stable income for many households in Cuong Loi commune. Photo: Thai Son

As a result, the poverty rate in the commune has gradually decreased over the years, although the reduction is not yet significant, it is moving towards greater sustainability. More importantly, people's awareness of poverty reduction has changed noticeably. From relying on support, many households have proactively sought ways to do business, utilizing policies as a "lever" to improve their lives. In fact, many economic models developed by the people themselves are gradually becoming a cornerstone for poverty reduction efforts in the locality.

Assessing the results of poverty reduction in the area, the leaders of the commune's People's Committee stated that the most important factor lies not only in investment resources, but also in the change in people's mindset. When people understand and believe that poverty reduction is their own responsibility, support policies will truly be effective.

Source: https://baothainguyen.vn/xa-hoi/202512/cuong-loi-giai-bai-toan-giam-ngheo-ben-vung-9a66267/