Vietnam local works for environmental health study

The USAID-funded Local Works for Environmental Health activity implemented by the Institute of Population, Health, and Development (PHAD) has been working since 2018 to address environmental health challenges in local communities in Ha Nam and Thanh Hoa provinces through empowered local capacity and strengthened partnerships among local organizations. This study explores PHAD’s process of engaging partners to make water works more locally owned and sustainable and presents recommendations to be adapted into current activities and new designs. The study team reviewed implementer reports and conducted KIIs with 34 respondents, four FGDs with 25 participants, and four site visits to water plants. The study found that PHAD has succeeded in establishing a Vietnam Water Health Alliance (VIWHA) with 35 members. PHAD conducted surveys and workshops at the central, provincial, and commune levels in implementation areas to disseminate information about water health issues and successfully built five water treatment systems in Yen Son commune. However, PHAD could better mobilize VIWHA members and other local actors to act collectively by better specifying governing members’ duties and engaging their common interests. Whereas PHAD remains the leading implementer, it should instead adopt a coordinator role, connecting local actors to promote locally led, community-driven development. To do this, it needs to adapt to local working environments. PHAD’s water works activities have not fully achieved their expected results; PHAD should strengthen its personnel with water and environmental expertise as it expands these activities.