Building futures, one cup of coffee at a time

United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. Antonio Guterres asked as he stopped by the Vanmai Coffee Cart in UN House during his recent visit to Lao PDR. As he took a sip from the cup of coffee he was offered, he learned about the remarkable journey that transformed Pheurp’s life. 

“There was a time when my family had to borrow money just to make ends meet,” Pheurp shared with the Secretary-General. “But now, thanks to the income from coffee farming, we’ve not only repaid those loans but also invested in a rice field tractor to enhance our productivity. We’re even able to save for my nieces’ and nephews’ education.” 

The coffee Pheurp proudly spoke of was grown by her and her fellow farmers in the remote, mountainous region of Houaphanh province. Once known for opium poppy cultivation, the region now focuses on building a brighter future through sustainable coffee farming. Smiling, she added, “Beyond growing a legal and sustainable crop, the UN’s support has given me the chance to learn new skills and become a leader in my community – something I never thought possible.”

A significant milestone in working with Pheurp and her community has been the establishment of the Vanmai Coffee Cooperative, a farmer-owned organization that empowers its members to capture greater value from the coffee supply chain, ensuring that coffee remains viable and competitive alternative to opium.

Once excluded from leadership positions, Pheurp is now at the forefront of initiatives such as the coffee cart. In 2021, a women’s network was formed to strengthen their role within the cooperative, and for women like Pheurp, this has been a turning point. 

Run entirely by women, managing the coffee cart has become a stepping stone, mirroring the decision-making responsibilities women are increasingly assuming within the cooperative’s governance structure. Through the network, Pheurp and her peers are not only gaining practical skills but also positioning themselves to take on more prominent roles in shaping decisions that impact their lives and the future of their communities.

Growing coffee has reshaped Pheurp’s life in ways she could never have imagined. 

The interaction took place during the Secretary-General’s visit to Lao PDR for the UN-ASEAN Summit. “It was fascinating to visit and see first-hand how UNODC’s project has made such positive change in the lives of the farmers in Houaphanh province,” Bakhodir Burkhanov, the UN Resident Coordinator to Lao PDR told the Secretary-General.

This partnership is a win-win on so many fronts. It has not only shifted farmers from opium to coffee, but also significantly enhanced women's economic empowerment.

The blog is written by Soutthida Soukthavone, National Programme Officer / Officer-in-Charge for Alternative Development, UNODC & Aksonethip Somvorachit, Communications and Advocacy Officer, UNRCO