In the context of complex climate change developments, mangrove forests serve not only as a "green shield" against coastal erosion and sea-level rise but also as a foundation for sustainable local livelihoods. During the 2021-2025 period, leveraging funding from the state, development organizations, enterprises, and local communities, Ca Mau province has led the nation in coastal afforestation with 1,879 hectares (including 1,610 hectares of mangroves), alongside 550 hectares of assisted natural regeneration (ANR) and the effective protection of 18,748 hectares.

These figures were reported at the Review Conference for the "Project on Coastal Forest Protection and Development to Respond to Climate Change and Promote Green Growth, 2021-2030," co-organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Ca Mau Provincial People’s Committee, and WWF-Vietnam on December 8, 2025.

Speaking at the conference, Ms. Vu Thị Bich Hop, Executive Director of the Centre for Sustainable Rural Development (SRD), highlighted that SRD has collaborated with functional agencies, technical units, businesses, and local communities to implement the project "Enhancing Climate Resilience and Sustainable Income for Vulnerable Mangrove-Dependent Communities."

The project has made a significant contribution to Ca Mau’s forestry goals by planting 10 hectares of new forests and facilitating the regeneration of 110 hectares. Furthermore, households across four communes (consolidated into three) have seen increased income through the adoption of integrated eco-aquaculture models under the mangrove canopy.

Ms. Hop expressed SRD's vision for the coming period, seeking technical support to measure and calculate mangrove biomass and carbon sequestration stocks. This data will serve as a scientific basis for evaluating the effectiveness of forest protection and development activities in Ca Mau. Additionally, she proposed establishing quarterly coordination meetings between the Ca Mau Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) and international organizations such as SRD, WWF, World Vision, and IUCN to enhance information sharing and synergy in mangrove-related interventions.

Co-chairing the conference, Mr. Phan Minh Chi, Deputy Director of the Ca Mau Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, extended his gratitude to SRD for their steadfast support in forestry management and sustainable livelihood development. He formally acknowledged SRD’s proposals and committed to close coordination for their implementation in the near future.