What’s the good news? Dori embarked on a six province drive February 27th. First goal is to explore a social venture model of “creating a village tax” on villagers’ business revenue, where funds would be directed exclusively to children’s education. First stop? Thathom district in Xaysomboun Province.
What’s the good news? Dori drove through two rivers to discuss with a Thathom regional development office about growing mulberry for export. 200 hectares were put on the table. Villagers agreed to consider paying portion of their revenue towards their children’s education. Villagers will be given the option to produce raw silk. Villagers will vote tomorrow. Spent day with mulberry and silk worm expert Dr Vilaysack learning more about mulberry for silk making. Growing seedlings, spacing, pruning, leaf picking and voraciously eating fresh delicious mulberries. Very enjoyable.
Also visited Thathom District governor’s office to get his blessing to grow mulberry in two villages. Met at his house rather then the office. All went well. (His patio table top came from a 600 year old tree.)
What’s the good news? Continued my drive. From Thathom in Xaysomboun (very safe. Was part of xieng khouang for many years). To Phonsavan, xieng khouang. Roads are being work on, some rough spots. (Some road sections collapsed into ravines/ Rapids.). Did not drive over 70 kph per Barbara’s instructions. Beautiful countryside.