Location: Nonkhilek Village, Sikhottabong district, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR

 Key Story Points

– Chief Soudjai has led Nonkhilek village for 12 years and witnessed increasingly severe flooding.

– Traditional knowledge of wetland management is at risk of being lost as urban development encroaches.

– The community sees NATURA as an opportunity to revive traditional practices while embracing modern solutions.

Feature Story

Chief Soudjai accompanied representatives from New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and the Department of Housing and Urban Planning (DHUP) during their visit to the wetland as part of the NATURA project in April 2025.

“My name is Soudjai Sannasan, and I am 57 years old,” begins the respected chief of Nonkhilek village, a thriving community closely connected to the Nong Loup Ian wetland in Vientiane. Soudjai’s journey from hotel staff to village leader began when the Women’s Union in Sikhottabong district recognized her commitment to helping others. In 2010, her tireless work earned the community’s trust, making her one of the region’s few women chiefs — a source of pride and inspiration for all.

“Nonkhilek’s heartbeat is the Nong Loup Ian wetland.”, Soudjai addressed and shared her memory that “For generations, this vibrant ecosystem has provided food and income for approximately 30% of households – fish, snails, lotus, and reeds woven into mats by skilled hands, often women. The wetland was a classroom, too, where elders passed down traditional knowledge about harvesting and use.”

But change has come.  Urbanization and pollution have diminished the wetland’s resources, causing many residents to seek work elsewhere. The 2018 flood, the worst in recent memory, tested Soudjai’s leadership. “I saw water reach the rooftops of some houses for weeks,” Soudjai reported.

With the help of 69 village unit leaders and 12 loudspeakers at seven locations, she ensured that over 80% of residents received timely warnings and support. Emergency shelters were established, and every villager—especially women, children, and the elderly—was accounted for.

When the NATURA project arrived, promising restoration over commercial development, relief swept through Nonkhilek.

“We are grateful this project will revive our wetland, not replace it,” Soudjai shares. She rallies her community, eager to see fishing boats, lotus harvests, and small markets return. Her message to NATURA funders and team is clear:

“Please help make this project a success. We are waiting and looking forward to seeing the outcome.” 

Soudjai’s story is one of resilience, unity, and hope—a testament to the power of women’s leadership and community spirit in shaping a sustainable future.

Quick Facts | Nonkhilek Village

– Population: 5,553 residents (1,080 households)

– 95% of households affected by flooding

– Early warning system: Loudspeaker as traditional practice

Nong Loub Ian Wetland, Vientiane Captial, Lao PDR

Priority need:

“Protection for 30% of vulnerable households in low-lying areas.” – Soudjai Sannasan, Nonkhilek Village Chief

—————————————————–

Download full story: link

Further information about the project: Nature-Based Solutions for Urban Adaptation in Lao PDR (NATURA) Phase I — Global Green Growth Institute