Vietnam launches US$102 million initiative to protect forests, boost rural incomes
PSNews - The Government of Viet Nam, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Green Climate Fund (GCF) on January 29 launched the US$102.50 million project to combat rising greenhouse gas emissions and protect vital forest ecosystems.
The Government of Viet Nam, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Green Climate Fund (GCF) have launched the US$102.50 million RECAF project to address rising greenhouse gas emissions and protect critical forest ecosystems. The project supports Viet Nam’s National REDD+ Action Programme Goals (RECAF) by promoting forest protection, climate-smart agriculture, and improved rural livelihoods.
While Viet Nam’s rapid economic growth has boosted development, emissions have increased from 0.79 tonnes of CO₂ per capita in 2000 to 3.81 tonnes in 2018. In the Central Highlands, deforestation has intensified climate risks, reduced soil fertility, and threatened agricultural productivity, especially in Dak Lak, a key coffee-producing province.
Implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE) with the People’s Committees of Dak Lak, Gia Lai, Lam Dong and Khanh Hoa, and financed by IFAD and GCF, RECAF will support farmers in adopting agroforestry practices, strengthen natural forest protection, and promote deforestation-free value chains.
Over six years, the project aims to reduce 6.68 million tonnes of emissions, improve 145,000 hectares of agroforestry land, and protect 500,000 hectares of natural forest. It will directly benefit 420,000 people and indirectly support over 1 million rural residents, contributing to Viet Nam’s climate commitments and food security.
“The RECAF project demonstrates how climate finance can deliver real and lasting impact for people and nature through sustainable land use and enhanced forest protection. This investment reflects GCF's commitment to country-ownership and impactful partnerships that will result in significant environmental and socio-economic benefits for communities”, said Frederic Wiltmann, Sub-Regional Head for Southeast Asia, GCF.
RECAF emphasizes partnerships between farmers, the private sector, and local authorities, while ensuring inclusion of women, youth, and ethnic minorities. IFAD, a partner of Viet Nam for over 30 years, sees RECAF as a key step in linking climate action with rural development. GCF highlighted the project as an example of how climate finance can generate lasting environmental and socio-economic benefits.
