Livelihood Transformations among the Co-Tu in To Poo Village, Ben Giang Commune, Da Nang City

Abstract

This article examines the processes of livelihood transformation among the Co-tu people in To Poo village, Ben Giang commune, Da Nang city following their relocation to the resettlement area of the Bung River 4 Hydropower Project. Drawing on ethnographic field data, the study demonstrates that the Co-tu have actively adapted to new living conditions by maintaining traditional livelihood practices that remain viable, while simultaneously developing new livelihood models such as restructuring crop and livestock systems toward higher economic value, participating in community-based forest protection, and expanding labor migration, wage work, and factory employment in industrial zones. These transformations have contributed to improved income, enhanced living standards, and facilitated the community’s socio-economic integration. However, the sustainability of these livelihood models continues to depend significantly on State and local support, particularly in subsidized credit, vocational training, and the development of markets for agricultural and forestry products.