Ca Mau Province Promotes Development by Empowering 'Trusted Individuals' Among Ethnic Minorities

Ca Mau Province in southern Vietnam is focusing on fostering and strengthening the role of 'trusted individuals' within ethnic minority communities to promote regional socio-economic development and national unity. The province recognizes these individuals as crucial in conveying Party and State policies to residents, and in driving various initiatives such as economic development, new rural construction, poverty reduction, and the preservation of ethnic cultures. Currently, Ca Mau Province has 198 'trusted individuals' from ethnic minority backgrounds. The province is developing specific policies and plans to enhance their effectiveness and quality of activities within their communities. In areas designated as ethnic minority settlements, these individuals are reportedly playing a central role in improving residents' livelihoods. For instance, in Hung Hoi commune, which has a significant Khmer population, Venerable Monk Tang Sa Vong, abbot of the Cai Gia pagoda, mobilized funds from local residents and donors to build a 1-kilometer concrete road serving as a school route for children. He also annually organizes food donations for impoverished households. The Deputy Secretary of the commune's Party Committee emphasizes that ethnic minority 'trusted individuals' are pivotal in promoting various movements and advanced models within the locality. Furthermore, Mr. Tran Ngoc Hon (39, Khmer ethnicity), Deputy Head of the Commune Party Committee Office in Hung Hoi, previously served as Chairman of the Commune Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee and is highly trusted by local residents. Mr. Ly Khol (over 70, Khmer ethnicity), a retired cadre, is also highly regarded for his long-standing contributions to the community. Ca Mau Province has outlined a plan for 2026-2030 to enhance the quality of activities of these 'trusted individuals,' strengthen ethnic solidarity, maintain regional security and order, and promote economic and social development. This initiative is considered a key measure under Vietnam's one-party system to drive stability and development in its regions.