Local knowledge in livelihood development of very small ethnic minority groups in Kon Tum province

Abstract

Kon Tum province is home to two very small ethnic groups, Brau and Ro Mam, with populations of fewer than 1,000 people, residing in border areas adjacent to Laos. Traditionally, their primary livelihood model has centered on cultivation, largely based on natural conditions and indigenous knowledge accumulated over generations. In recent years, livelihood-support projects have enabled local people to expand production, adopt double-crop wet rice farming, develop industrial crops, and apply technical advances. However, achieving sustainable agricultural development remains a significant challenge. This article presents forms of local knowledge currently applied in agricultural practices among the Brau and Ro Mam communities and proposes solutions to improve livelihood effectiveness and promote socio-economic development in the region.