From March 11 to 13, 2025, the GS4Infra project, led by the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City, participated in a series of workshops co-organized by the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), the Sumernet network, and the Southern Institute of Water Resources Research (SIWRR) in Ho Chi Minh City. The program gathered numerous experts, researchers, and representatives from governmental and non-governmental organizations to discuss solutions for promoting sustainable development and enhancing inclusivity in the Mekong Delta.
Over the three-day event, GS4Infra project members had the opportunity to share key achievements in integrating gender equality into water-energy infrastructure solutions and strengthening climate change adaptation. On the first day, the project participated in a discussion on disability inclusion in sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of ensuring equal opportunities for everyone. On the second day, GS4Infra contributed to a session on strategies for linking research with policy, exploring how projects can effectively influence critical policy decisions. On the final day, project members attended the Mekong Delta Sustainable Development Conference, where pressing issues related to water resource management, infrastructure, and climate change adaptation were analyzed to develop practical recommendations.
In addition to the professional discussion sessions, a highlight of the program was the exhibition of products from two livelihood models implemented by local women in Cu Lao Dung, members of the Cu Lao Dung Women Entrepreneurs Club. These models, supported financially and technically by the GS4Infra project, were developed based on the concept of promoting nature-based product models while reinforcing natural hydrological infrastructure (mangrove apple and nipa palm forests as natural dykes), empowering women, and supporting vulnerable groups. Attendees had the opportunity to sample mangrove apple flower and leaf tea, a unique product made from the flowers and leaves of the mangrove apple tree, a species characteristic of coastal ecosystems, which is not only nutritious but also contributes to environmental protection. Additionally, semi-dried nipa palm fruit attracted significant interest due to its innovative processing method, enhancing the economic value of this indigenous plant. These livelihood models not only provide local women with a stable income but also contribute to the protection of the natural ecosystem.
Image: The GS4Infra project team and representatives from the Women’s Union and the Cu Lao Dung Women Entrepreneurs Club showcase startup products at the event.
Building on the positive outcomes achieved, GS4Infra will continue to implement activities that promote gender inclusion and enhance climate change resilience in infrastructure development. In the future, the project aims to expand collaborations with partners to generate greater positive and sustainable impacts for the community.
Report and Photos: GS4Infra Project Team
