Implementing the National Target Program on Socio-Economic Development for Ethnic Minority Areas, Ngoc Chuc Commune, Giong Rieng District, Kien Giang Province, is changing day by day. Policies to support infrastructure development and improve living standards have brought about remarkable results, helping the locality escape poverty and grow strongly.
Ngoc Chuc Commune is located along Provincial Road 963, 5.4km from the center of Giong Rieng District, with nearly 3,000ha of natural area and more than 11,700 people. Of which, the Khmer ethnic group accounts for over 32%. Previously, the people's lives faced many difficulties due to lack of infrastructure, thanks to investment projects from the national target program, the appearance of the commune has changed day by day.
Mr. Danh Hong, Head of Ngoc Binh Hamlet, said: Since 2021, the commune has invested in building and upgrading many essential works. Typically, the clean water supply system is more than 10km long with a total capital of more than 2.2 billion VND, serving the daily life of thousands of households.
"In the past, people faced many difficulties. But now, thanks to the State's investment and convenient roads, life has become more stable. Children can go to school, people have the conditions to develop the economy and escape poverty."
Not stopping there, Ngoc Chuc commune also focuses on sustainable poverty reduction. In 2023, the poverty rate decreased sharply, to only 59 households. Notably, 17 houses were built for disadvantaged households, bringing a new stable life to many families.
Ms. Thi Thanh, a resident of Ngoc Binh hamlet, shared: “Before, my family had no place to sleep, so we had to use raincoats to temporarily cover ourselves. Now that the government has supported us to build a new house, I am very happy. Life is more comfortable. With a stable house, I will try my best to make a living to get ahead.”
In addition, many households are also supported to change their careers and develop their economy.The family of Mr. Danh Day in Ngoc Binh hamlet is a typical example of effective change.From the loan capital and technical training, he developed a model of growing and purchasing straw mushrooms, earning more than 5 million VND per day.
Mr. Danh Day said: "Every day, I harvest more than 100 kg of mushrooms and sell them to large markets.Thanks to that, the family economy is much more stable than before.I have a good and regular income, so I can take better care of my family and have a more comfortable life."
In addition to economic development, Ngoc Chuc commune also cares about preserving and promoting the traditional cultural values of ethnic minorities. Cultural activities, legal education and honoring prestigious people have helped unite the community and build a better life.
Mr. Ly Thanh Luan, Chairman of Ngoc Chuc Commune People's Committee, shared: "Support policies have helped people escape poverty and have a more stable life. We will continue to implement projects for sustainable development, continuing the achievements that have been made to help improve the lives of ethnic minority people."
The achievements in Ngoc Chuc commune are clear evidence of the effectiveness of development policies for ethnic minority areas. The appearance of the countryside is increasingly prosperous, and people's lives are increasingly improved. This is the driving force for the commune to continue to move forward in the journey ahead.
