€361,502 Grant from Irish Embassy Boosts UXO Victim Support in Vietnam

Educating children about UXO risks keeps them safe.

Press Release

Dong Ha, Quang Tri, Vietnam [17 July 2024]

Project RENEW, a Vietnamese comprehensive mine action model, addresses the legacy of unexploded ordnance (UXO) left behind by the war and assists those affected by it. The organization has been awarded a significant grant of €361,502 by the Embassy of Ireland in Vietnam.

This vital funding will support Project RENEW’s “Victim Assistance/Disability Support and Mine Risk Education” project, bringing vital aid to landmine victims and promoting safety awareness in both Quang Tri and Quang Ngai provinces.

The project will provide comprehensive support to landmine victims, including those with disabilities. Additionally, crucial explosive ordnance risk education programs will be implemented within selected communities. Equipping residents with the knowledge to stay safe is critical, as tragically exemplified by the recent incident on May 13, 2024, in which a man in Quang Tri Province lost his life due to unexploded ordnance.

With a long history of serving Quang Tri, Project RENEW is well-positioned to effectively utilize this grant. The funding will allow RENEW to expand its existing efforts and reach more people in need.

Project RENEW is proud of helping UXO victims like Hoang Than of Ai Tu Village, Quang Tri Province walk again.

“This generous grant from the Irish Embassy is a testament to Ireland’s continued commitment to supporting Vietnamese communities most affected by the war’s consequences,” said Nguyen Hieu Trung, Coordination Manager of Project RENEW. ” This funding will allow us to significantly improve the lives of landmine victims and prevent future tragedies through education.”

The grant breakdown allocates €304,502 for activities in Quang Tri, the province most heavily impacted by UXO. Quang Ngai province will receive €57,000 to address similar needs within its communities.

This initiative highlights the ongoing collaboration between Ireland and Vietnam in promoting peace, safety, and well-being for Vietnamese citizens. With this grant, Project RENEW is one step closer to a future free from the threat of unexploded ordnance in Quang Tri and Quang Ngai provinces.