Opportunities to leverage income generation in marginalized villages: Labutta and Ye townships

The study's objectives were to assess economic potentials and critical livelihood bottlenecks; identify sectors/sub-sectors offering income-generating opportunities; and provide recommendations on project implementation. The report used a methodology combining rapid rural appraisals, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews to gather data.  It includes detailed analyses of opportunities and challenges within each specific value chains (rice, crab, shrimp, fish, betel nut, rubber, and pepper). Key findings highlighted challenges such as limited research, infrastructure deficits, health and safety concerns, and micro-finance and financial literacy gaps. Recommendations included micro-finance and financial literacy programs, analysis of agricultural potential, value chain upgrading, capacity building in agricultural techniques, facilitation of discussions to improve practices, sharing the report with stakeholders, and developing programs to support migrant workers and improve education. The report also emphasizes the role of women in the economy and the need for interventions to consider gender roles.

The report concludes that while generating further income may not automatically reduce child labour in all cases (particularly in Ye Township where education costs are high and social issues prevalent), it is a crucial factor.  The study recommends that My-PEC focus on interventions that directly or indirectly reduce child labour, emphasizing micro-finance and capacity building to empower local communities.  The report's findings underscore the need to address existing bottlenecks in value chains, improve infrastructure, and develop strategies to support migrants and integrate them into the local economy, fostering better education and reducing the reliance of families on child labour for income.