Mulberry cultivation and silkworm raising, effective livelihoods in the highlands of Nghe An
From the model of "Skilled Mass Mobilization", the mulberry growing and silkworm raising profession in Cam Muon commune (Que Phong) is opening up a sustainable livelihood for the Thai people.
Báo Nghệ An•03/06/2025
In recent years, in Mong 1 and Mong 2 villages, Cam Muon commune (Que Phong district), the mulberry growing and silkworm raising profession has been restored and developed, becoming an effective livelihood for the Thai ethnic people. Taking advantage of the fertile land along Quang stream, the Thai people in Cam Muon grow mulberry as the main food source for silkworms. Photo: TP Silkworms eat 4-5 times a day. This work requires regularity, patience and close observation. This is an important stage that determines the cocoon yield. Photo: KL Silkworms in Cam Muon are local silkworms, suitable for the climate conditions. Although small, the cocoons are of high quality and easy to spin. Photo: TP After nearly a month of care, the silkworms form cocoons and spin silk. The golden cocoons are the result of a whole process of diligent labor. Photo: KL Cocoons are boiled and spun by hand. Each kilogram of silk thread costs from 800,000 to 1,000,000 VND, an important source of income for households. Photo: TP After being drawn, the silk is dried. The thinner and more uniform the thread, the higher its value, serving both brocade weaving and commercial sale. Photo: KL Using wood ash mixed with water to soften and clean silk fibers is a traditional method to help improve the quality of silk, a secret that few places still preserve. Photo: TP Raw silk is spun to increase its applicability. People can sell the yarn or continue to process it into fabric, increasing their income. Photo: TP The smooth white yarn is the result of meticulous labor. This is a product that is steadily purchased by traders. Photo: TP Silk products are sold to weaving villages, contributing to increasing income and helping people reduce their dependence on rice and pigs. Photo: KL Weaving is a traditional sideline job for Thai women in Cam Muon. Thanks to local silk, input costs are low and the products have high value. Photo: TP After dyeing, the silk is used to embroider patterns on dresses. Each product increases in value by 30-50%, expanding the consumer market. Photo: TP Cam Muon silk products are popular with tourists thanks to their natural colors and handmade patterns. This is a potential direction to combine traditional crafts with eco -tourism and experiences. From the initial 10 households, up to now, 30 households have participated in the model, with an annual income of 20 - 50 million VND/household thanks to selling cocoons, silk threads, and brocade weaving products. Photo: KL Clip: Thanh Phuc - Khanh Ly
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