Strengthening Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change Adaptation Capacity in the Mekong Region (SCR) (2023–2025)

Vietnam is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, due to its extensive coastline of over 3,200 kilometers, numerous low-lying cities, and vast river delta regions. In 2020 alone, climate-related damages and losses were estimated at approximately $10 billion, equivalent to 3.2% of the country’s GDP. Climate change could push up to one million people into extreme poverty by 2030, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive climate resilience strategies.

The Mekong Delta, home to over 17 million people and Vietnam’s agricultural heartland, faces some of the most severe climate challenges in the country. Rising sea levels threaten to submerge up to 40% of the delta by the end of this century, directly impacting more than half of its population. Additionally, the region is experiencing more unpredictable and extreme flooding and drought cycles, which further threaten agricultural productivity and fisheries. These environmental stresses translate into significant economic vulnerabilities, as the Mekong Delta contributes substantially to Vietnam’s food security and export economy.

To strengthen capacity of the riverine communities and local authorities in inclusive climate and disaster risk management, and improve hydro-meteorological data sharing for early warning.

Approach

The project focused on enhancing more inclusive and participatory planning and technical support for community climate change adaptation, and improving access to information including hydro-meteorological data.

• Building the capacity of communities, especially women and people with disabilities, to understand and apply inclusive Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change Adaptation (DRM/CCA) plans in their families and communes.
• Strengthening the capacity of local government staff on Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change Adaptation (DRM/CCA) to plan and actively support communities in managing disaster and climate-related hazards.
• Enhancing riverine communities, and Disaster Risk Management (DRM) authorities use digital early warming apps using hydro-meteorological data for DRM/CCA.

• A total of 9,812 community members benefited, including: 1,024 girls, 3,482 women, 36 persons with disabilities.
• 239,600 mangrove trees were planted along 29 kilometers of riverbank, protecting 5,416 families (20,820 people) from flood risks and supporting biodiversity.
• 13 climate-smart irrigation models were implemented, benefiting 15 households, with replication by other community members.
• 03 active community DRM taskforces were formally recognized and now meet quarterly, providing a local structure to maintain and update DRM measures.
• 195 core women members were trained to integrate inclusive DRM/CCA into local Socio-Economic Development Plans. These women are also key facilitators, sharing knowledge and practices with other women and people with disabilities in their communities.
• Use of early warning apps such as the PCTT and the Mekong Water Resources App has increased, supporting agricultural and aquaculture planning.

Soc Trang division of water management, Agriculture and environment Department

Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade