Steering Committee meeting reviews progress of the Local development programme in Lao PDR

The Steering Committee of the Local development programme convened on 20 March 2026 to review the programme’s progress over the past year and to endorse its strategic direction, operational priorities and budget for 2026.

The meeting was chaired by the Deputy Minister of Finance, H.E. Mrs Phonevanh OUTHAVONG, and co-chaired by Mr Thomas LAMMAR, chargé d’affaires at the Embassy of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in the Lao PDR, and Mr Jean-Gabriel DUSS, regional director of cooperation for the Mekong Region at the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). The participation of more than 120 stakeholders highlighted the strong partnership and coordinated approach underpinning the programme’s implementation. Discussions focused on key achievements, the results of the recently completed mid-term evaluation, lessons learned and strategic priorities to ensure continued alignment with national policies and development frameworks.

In her opening remarks, H.E. Mrs Phonevanh OUTHAVONG emphasised the programme’s contribution to national development priorities, including its alignment with the national socio-economic development plans and relevant sector strategies.

Over the past year, the Local development programme has achieved significant progress. In 4 target provinces, 226 villages have begun implementing participatory village development plans. More than 220 village development fund activities have been completed and 395 capacity‑building activities covering various topics for government staff and programme counterparts at both central and local levels have been carried out.

In addition, 140 infrastructure projects have advanced, and initiatives have been launched to promote nutrition, education and disaster risk reduction. The programme has also worked to improve the quality of and access to financial services in remote areas. Throughout all activities, gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI) principles have been integrated to ensure that women, ethnic groups and vulnerable populations are meaningfully included and benefit equitably from the programme's outcomes.

The Steering Committee reviewed and endorsed the programme’s work plan and budget for the upcoming period, with a focus on scaling up its impact, strengthening sustainability and enhancing monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. Participants also discussed opportunities to further institutionalise GEDSI approaches, improve data systems and strengthen coordination among stakeholders.

All partners reaffirmed their continued support for the programme, recognising its role in contributing to inclusive development and capacity strengthening in the Lao PDR. The programme reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that development efforts leave no one behind and respond effectively to the diverse needs of the population. 

The Local development programme aims to promote sustainable, inclusive and resilient development outcomes across targeted sectors. It is co-financed by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and Switzerland and jointly implemented by the Lao Ministry of Finance (formerly the Ministry of Planning and Investment) and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.