Clearing landmines gives land back to communities, but affected families still need a steady income to start again. TDA helps landmine survivors and vulnerable groups build sustainable alternative livelihoods, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and climate protection.
VTMRAL vocational training (2023–2024)
The Vocational Training Programme for Mekong Region Communities Affected by Landmines ran alongside clearance in PATOM Phase 2, funded by ASEAN and JAIF. It delivered 7 trainings in three countries:
- Dom Pradit District, Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand
- Champasak, Lao PDR
- Siem Reap, Cambodia
What communities learned
- Golden apple snail farming for food and sale
- Oyster and termite mushroom cultivation
- Water fern (azolla) farming
- Vegetables grown on raised tables
- Organic cassava and organic pest control
- Chewing sugar cane and effective microorganism (EM) solution
Results
- A small-scale farming learning centre (PATOM Garden) in Ubon Ratchathani and an organic cassava demonstration plot.
- A study visit to model farms in Khon Kaen for 12 community representatives from Lao PDR, Cambodia and Thailand (19–21 December 2023).
- Strong interest from villagers; some families started mini farms and now earn a sustainable income.
Caring for members and deminers
TDA looks after its members, especially deminers who face danger every day, through refresher training, social security and standard protective equipment.
Help us build livelihoods
TDA wants to bring vocational training to more border communities. If you or your organisation would like to support this work: