Farmers drive new rural development in Dong Nai

In 2024, Dong Nai has not only met but surpassed its targets for advanced and model new rural development, reaffirming its position among the country’s leading provinces in post- new rural development construction.

This success stems from a widespread provincial campaign that has mobilized rural residents to actively contribute to the movement. From the outset, provincial authorities have recognized farmers as the key drivers and beneficiaries of new rural development, ensuring effective communication to raise awareness and participation.

High-income cocoa cultivation model in Phu Hoa commune, Dinh Quan district.

According to the provincial Farmers’ Union, local farmers have contributed over VND 38.6 billion in cash, 5,600 labor days, and donated nearly 13,000 square meters of land for rural infrastructure projects. They have also supported the construction and repair of 137 km of rural roads, 38 km of irrigation canals, 21 km of lighting systems, and 19 bridges and culverts. Beyond infrastructure, farmers and rural households actively engage in environmental management, waste sorting, and implementing the “5 no, 3 clean” campaign, helping to build model families, neighborhood groups, and clean, safe, and green roads.

Deputy Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Vo Van Phi emphasized that effective advocacy has inspired strong community participation throughout the new rural journey, from the basic to advanced and model stages.

Farmers are also at the forefront of boosting agricultural production and rural entrepreneurship. Many have become farm owners, cooperative leaders, or agri-business entrepreneurs specializing in high-tech and organic farming, as well as processing and exporting agricultural products.

A notable example is Tran Quang Hiep from Xuan Que commune, Cam My district, the first farmer in Dong Nai to obtain organic certification for his durian orchard. Pioneering the cultivation of the Dona durian variety, a local specialty, Hiep’s produce has successfully entered demanding markets such as the US. With nearly two decades of experience, he prioritizes safe farming practices and organic inputs, helping build a model organic durian region under his cooperative leadership.

Long Khanh city also stands out with its balanced development of agriculture alongside industry and urbanization. According to the city’s Farmers’ Union chairman Nguyen Van Dung, farmers there play a central role in both new rural construction and agricultural production, supported by policies attracting investment in high-tech and organic agriculture linked to processing and market expansion.

Le Van Goi, Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, highlighted that innovative production models and value-chain linkages have enabled farmers to prosper locally. Concentrated production zones, mechanization, and export-standard cultivation areas have emerged, alongside distinctive rural tourism products. Community-based environmental protection and security initiatives further reinforce the sustainable development of rural areas.

In summary, Dong Nai’s comprehensive approach, with farmers as the cornerstone, continues to drive new rural development while promoting economic growth and community well-being.

Reported by L.Q