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Food Security of Slash and Burn Farming Systems in Northern, Lao PDR: Case Study in Nam Chat Village, Phou Kout District of Xieng Khuang Province
Thesis Abstract:
Slash-and-burn farming systems are important food production systems widely practiced in northern Lao PDR. However, relatively little attention and efforts have been directed toward the food security of slash-and-burn farming systems of the various ethnic groups.
The objectives of the research were to evaluate food sources and security, as well as household income of three ethnic groups—Khmu, Hmong, and Lao Loum—at Nam Chat Village, Xieng Khouang Province in northern Lao PDR. The qualitative research was carried out using secondary data and primary data, which included formal key informant group discussion and household semi-structured interview. The results showed that the two food sources of the three ethnic groups were domestic food (crops and livestock) and wild food (wild plants and wildlife).
The three ethnic groups consumed different quantities of food sources from crops or animals species, depending on specific ethnic groups. The study also found that rice was the main staple food crop for three ethnic groups. However, Hmong and Khmu, representing approximately 30 percent of total household in this village produced insufficient rice for household consumption. Irrespective of economic return, the three ethnic groups earned household income both from crops and domestic animals, as well as from non-timber forest products and wildlife. Lao Loum received per capita income greater than Hmong and Kmu in the present study.
