For Immediate Release
Press Release
Vientiane Capital, July 17, 2024 — In a significant step toward enhancing the well-being and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Laos, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) intends to provide up to $15 million for Phase II of the USAID Okard project. Running from 2024 to 2027, Phase II aims to improve self-reliance and rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities in Laos, adding onto USAID Okard’s $15 million Phase I, implemented from 2017 to 2023. USAID’s total contribution to Okard is expected to be $30 million.
The initiative was formalized with the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between World Education (WE) and the Government of Laos. The first MOU, titled ‘Okard: Capacity Strengthening on Disability Inclusive Development Project’ was signed between WE and the Department of Policy for Devotees, Persons with Disabilities, and Older Persons of the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare on June 17, 2024. The second MOU, titled ‘Okard: Capacity Strengthening on Rehabilitation Project,’ was signed on July 17, 2024 between WE and the Department of Healthcare and Rehabilitation of the Ministry of Health.
USAID Laos’s Acting Office Director of Health and Governance David Sintasath highlighted the growing collaboration between the United States and Lao PDR under the U.S.-Lao PDR Comprehensive Partnership. "This agreement marks a significant milestone in our joint efforts to enhance the independence and capabilities of persons with disabilities by ensuring equal access to rights and social services in Laos," stated Dr. Sintasath. "The United States is dedicated to supporting the Government of Laos in helping persons with disabilities lead full and productive lives."
The Okard project will focus on health, economic empowerment, stakeholder engagement, and community-based inclusive development. A key objective is to ensure that social protection programs reach individuals with disabilities who still face barriers to accessing essential support and rehabilitation services.
The Okard project made significant strides in Phase I, positively impacting over 29,413 vulnerable individuals, including 182 unexploded ordnance survivors. The project facilitated access to health and rehabilitation services for nearly 9,300 persons and distributed approximately 12,700 basic assistive products to the Ministry of Health. Additionally, it supported over 1,700 individuals in obtaining specialized assistive products.
Phase II will continue its vital role in promoting disability-inclusive development and strengthening the rehabilitation system across the capital and the provinces of Xieng Khouang, Savannakhet, and Sekong. This will be achieved through close collaboration with the Government of Laos, organizations of persons with disabilities, and development partners.
Thathsaphone Keomoungkhoun/USAID