2020 Q3 Progress Report of NRA.Pdf

1. Project Implementation Status and Key Results Implementation Status Summary at Outcome level

1.1. Outcome Level Progress This project aims to increase the capacity of the UXO sector in Lao PDR to deal with the problem of remaining UXO in order to reduce its threat to people and to remove the barriers to productive and sustainable use of land. The progress made at the outcome level during Q3 is as follows:  During the third quarter, there were 3 UXO accidents across the country, resulting in 5 UXO casualties (4 boys and 1 man). The causes of these accidents were: playing with UXO, setting fires for cooking, attempted destruction of UXO cutting grass and hitting UXO. By the end of Q3, the total number of UXO casualties were 22, resulting from 16 accidents.  In accordance with the implementation of the new UXO survey procedures by the government of Lao PDR, all humanitarian operators in Lao PDR now employ an evidence-based approach to land clearance. As a result, a total of 2,101 hectares (ha) were identified as Confirmed Hazardous Areas (CHAs) by the process of technical survey during the reporting period and 1,025 ha were cleared by all operators, including commercial operators. A total of 21,606 UXO items were destroyed from this process.

2. UNDP’s Contribution

During the reporting period, UNDP supported the management and technical capacity- development of the NRA. In doing so, the UNDP-managed funds have contributed to all outputs and outcome-level achievements attributed to the sector. In terms of the specific support provided, some of the key elements can be summarized as follows:

a) Technical Advice – UNDP provides technical advisory support to the NRA, with three UNDP staff being based full-time at the NRA, being a Chief Technical Advisor (CTA), Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist and a Programme and Reporting Specialist. Financial advisory support is also given to the NRA by UNDP. The advisory team have provided support to the NRA in Q3 by drafting concept papers, finalizing donor reports, reviewing national strategies and providing the necessary inputs.

b) Management and Procurement – UNDP helped to procure equipment and vehicles for the NRA office and the humanitarian teams of the Lao People’s Army (Army 58).

c) Sector Leadership – UNDP continuously assisted in the management of the funding gap of the sector, ensuring that activities did not stop.

d) Capacity Development – UNDP supported the NRA in the finalization of both the narrative and financial reports which had to be submitted to various donors, including Canada and Turkey. In addition, UNDP’s financial specialist supported the financial management of the NRA, which included a reallocation budget for the New Zealand proposal.

e) Resource Mobilization – UNDP is instrumental in engaging new and previous donors in financing the UXO sector. In Q3, UNDP held a meeting to present concept papers to relevant line ministries on support for the improvement of the national UXO training center and on creating a demining capacity in Huaphan province through the humanitarian teams of the Lao People’s Army.

3. Output Level Achievements

- 3 TWG meetings were held (CL on the 23rd of September, MRE on the 29th of September 2020, VA on 30th of September 2020). - Workshop to review the messages of the UXO radio programs and to plan for the year ahead was held on the 1st to the 3rd of September 2020, at Sounantha hotel, Borlikhamxay province. - Workshop on MRE for Lao Village Youth was held from the 30th of September to the 2nd of October 2020 at the Guest House of the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, Vientiane Capital. - Workshop on the UXO/Mine Victim Assistance Strategy drafting was held on the 20th to the 24th of September 2020, at Thalat district, Vientiane province. - Emergency response for UXO removal were conducted in Borlikhamxay and Vientiane provinces.

Implementation Progress Summary at Output level

No. Description Targets and Unit Additional ACTIVITY PROGRESS TO RESULTS ACHIEVED Indicators details DATE Describe concrete, key (location Give detailed explanation of results (policy, and staff the status. Provide publication, key event number) justification if delayed and etc.) achieved so far, vis- provide the new schedule and à-vis the specific targets response strategy, if any set in the QWP/AWP. Please provide data/evidence to support the results Mine Risk Education (MRE) unit ACTIVITY RESULT 1: UXO/Mine Risk Education methodologies improved, reinforced and disseminated better. ANNUAL RESULT 1.1: UXO/Mine Risk Education is better integrated and adopted in primary schools’ curriculum. MRE Personnel cost MRE unit Two staff members (1 MRE

officer and 1 technician) 1.1.1. Monitor UXO Risk Education MRE operators MRE unit Delayed The MRE monitoring did activities conducted by operators in monitored not take place as planned Lao PDR. in Q3 due to the Indicator: Number of conflicting schedule of monitoring missions MRE unit. The NRE unit on UXO Risk decided to conduct the Education (RE) monitoring in Q4. 1.1.2. Conduct MRE TWG meeting By holding the TWG, MRE unit The In progress The MRE TWG meeting improved coordination meeting was held on the 29th of among MRE operators will be September 2020 at the will be established organized NRA. The meeting was at the NRA chaired by the Deputy Indicator: Minutes of office, Director of the NRA all 4 MRE TWGs Vientiane office, Mr. Douangsy 4

available on NRA Capital for Thammavong. website by 1st January a half day 2021. with all The meeting minutes is operators. being drafted in the Lao language and is awaiting approval by the NRA management. Once this document is approved, then MRE unit will translate it into English and will upload the minutes to the NRA’s website. ANNUAL RESULT 1.2: UXO/Mine Risk Education messages are conveyed by local media. 1.2.1. Pay provincial radio stations to Radio programmes MRE unit In progress The radio programs broadcast UXO messages and UXO (specific Risk broadcasted UXO information for 4 quarters (every Education messages) information and MRE month- 8 times per month) at 5 reached at least half of messages 8 times per provincial radio stations (Vientiane the population in 5 month at 5 radio stations Capital, Khammouane, Sekong, provinces (VTE in 5 provinces (Vientiane Salavan and Champasack provinces) capital, KM, SK, SLV Capital, Khammouane, & CHP) and UXO Sekong, Salavan and spot radio programme Champasack). This was are evaluated on how conducted in it affected people’s collaboration with the behavior and changed Ministry of Information, their attitude. Culture and Tourism (MICT). Indicator: Availability of radio programme In order to contribute to report. Promote the publication of Impact of UXO by measures to prevent the UXO spot & radio spread of COVID19 program in the virus, the NRA continued community on 5 to partner with the MICT provinces, expectation to integrate information 5

for listener 40,000 on measures to prevent people. the spread of the COVID 19 virus into the UXO radio programs in five provinces. The data collected shows that there has been a significant increase in the number of listeners, enabling total 21,800 active participants and 1,209,093 to be reached by the signal.

The breakdown of the quiz participants (21,800 in total) in the five provinces are detailed below:

VTE: 4,000 people KM: 4,800 people SK: 4,200 people SLV: 4,000 people CHP: 4,800 people 1.2.2 Conduct annual workshop on Indicator: Number of Completed From the 11th to 13th of UXO radio program meetings organized June 2020, at Thalath and availability of key district, Vientiane recommendations and Capital, the MRE unit the workshop’s organized a workshop on minutes on NRA reviewing the messages website. of the UXO radio programs and planning Target: 1 workshop for the year ahead

The minutes were approved both Lao & English versions and made available at the NRA website. 1.2.3 printing shirt for 5 radio Indicator: Number of Completed 900 UXO t-shirts have program stations shirts printed and been printed in order to distributed. distribute during the Q&A games of the UXO Target: 900 T-shirt radio broadcast.

1.2.4 Conduct workshop to review Baseline: 2019: yes MRE unit Completed From the 1st to the 3rd of and update of the Risk Education (1) September 2020, at Materials (puppets show to be Target: 2020: yes (1) Sounantha hotel, highlighted to review). Indicator: Number of Borlikhamxay district, the workshops organized MRE unit organized a and availability of key workshop to review the recommendations and messages of the UXO the workshop’s radio programs and to minutes on NRA plan for the year ahead. website. The minutes were approved both Lao & English versions and made available at the NRA website.

1.2.5 Printing MRE Poster Baseline: 2019: 900 MRE unit Completed 4,980 MRE posters were posters printed and distributed to Target: 2020: 2334 all UXO humanitarian posters operators in September Indicator: Number of 2020, including the 9 MRE poster printed provincial UXO Lao and distributed offices, 13 NRA provincial offices and the 5 provincial radio stations 7

(Vientiane Capital, Khammouane, Sekong, Saravan and Champasack).

Annual Result 1.3: Risk Education messages are conveyed to people living in UXO contaminated 1.3.1 Conduct monitoring of Mine Completed From the 22nd to the 26th risk education response Emergency in of June 2020, the MRE accident on the UXO contaminated unit conducted training province, where is no any operator. for the humanitarian Lao People’s Army MRE teams in Paksan district, Bolikhamxay province.

After day 3 of the training, the Army MRE team conducted an MRE campaign to inform the people, students and local authorities about the UXO at Pheng Daeng village in Vientiane capital where the UXO were recently found. The NRA office, representatives from the Ministry of National Defense, local authorities and representatives from UNDP attended the MRE activity.

The NRA and UNDP were also informed by the Pak Ngum district local 8

authorities that they found cluster munitions BLU 3, together with 132 other items in Tha Kok Hai village in Vientiane capital which were reported by local people., The NRA office and UNDP took the time to inspect the actual UXO found at the site. To address this issue, the Clearance unit will coordinate with the UXO Humanitarian Teams of the Lao People’s Army to destroy the items in Q3.

Annual Result 1.4: Youth Village volunteers are trained on MRE 1.4.1 Conduct UXO risk education In progress From 30th of September activity by village youth volunteers to 2nd of October 2020, team from 2 provinces MRE unit collaborated (Khammouane and Xiengkhoung) with the Lao Youth’s Union conducted the UXO/Mine Risk Education Training for Lao Village Youth Volunteers from Bolikhamxay. From 28th to 30th of October 2020, MRE unit collaborated with the Lao Youth’s Union conducted the UXO/Mine Risk Education Training for Lao Village Youth 9

Volunteers from Salavan. The workshop minutes were approved in Lao and are made available at the NRA. The MRE unit are translating the minutes into English. Once the English is finalized and approved, the NRA will upload the minutes to the NRA website.

1.4.2 Monitoring risk education Baseline: 2019: yes, MRE unit Completed From the 28th to 31st of activities have been conducted by Target: 2020: yes July 2020, the MRE unit village youth Volunteers team. collaborated with Lao Indicator: Number of Youth Union to conduct missions on UXO monitoring of the work of Risk Education (RE) village youth volunteers in Xiengk houang province.

From the 23rd to the 26th of September 2020, the MRE unit collaborated with Lao Youth Union to conduct monitoring of the work of village youth volunteers in Xaibuathong and Ngommalath districts, Khammouane province.

These visits monitored the MRE activities being implemented by the village youth volunteers 10

to ensure that the same standards and systems are being applied as those contained in the MRE manual. Annual Result 1.5: MRE activities are better coordinated among key stakeholders in the sector 1.5.1 Conduct UXO/Mine Risk Indicator: Number of MRE unit In progress As part of the project Education Training for Lao Village workshops organized supported by Turkey, the Youth Volunteers for Borlikhamxay and availability of the NRA organized a province. workshop’s minutes UXO/Mine Risk on NRA website. Education Training workshop for Lao Village Youth Volunteers from Borlikhamxay province from the 30th of September to the 2nd of October 2020 at the Guest House of the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, Vientiane Capital. The meeting was chaired by the Deputy Director of the NRA office, Mr. Douangsy Thammavong.

The minutes of the training are being drafted in the Lao language. 1.5.2 Conduct workshop on Indicator: Number of MRE unit In progress From the 21st to the 23rd coordination and planning for MRE workshops organized, of July 2020, the MRE operators, provincial and district Coordination and unit conducted a authorities. information from local workshop on coordination side is improve, and planning for MRE availability of work operators, as well as plan 2021 of the MRE provincial and district 11 and availability of the authorities in workshop’s minutes Borlikhamxay province. on NRA website. The workshop was chaired by the Deputy Director of the NRA office, Mr. Douangsy Thammavong.

The workshop was attended by Provincial Labour and Social Welfare Department staff, NRA Provincial Office staff, NRA central officers and UXO operators, with a total attendance of 32 people, 6 of which were female. The workshop minutes are being drafted in Lao.

From the 3rd to the 7th of August 2020, the MRE unit conducted a workshop on coordination and planning for MRE operators, as well as provincial and district authorities from Salavan. The workshop was held in Borlikhamxay province. The workshop was chaired by the Deputy Director of the NRA office, Mr. Douangsy Thammavong. 12

The workshop minutes are being drafted in Lao.

From the 17th to the 21st of August 2020, the MRE unit conducted a workshop on coordination and planning for MRE operators, as well as provincial and district authorities from Khammouane province. The workshop was held in Borlikhamxay province. The workshop was chaired by the Deputy Director of the NRA office, Mr. Douangsy Thammavong.

The workshop was attended by Provincial Labour and Social Welfare Department staff, 13

NRA Provincial Office staff, NRA central officers and UXO operators, with a total attendance of 32 people, 6 of which were female.

The workshop minutes are being drafted in Lao. 1.5.3 Conduct field monitoring and Number of missions This activity was replaced meet with provincial and district and available of by the number of authorities to discuss and follow up reports. workshops organized in issues. provinces. 1.6.1 Study tour and exchange lesson Number of NRA staff There is no study tour learn on UXO risk education activity who visit Cambodia in conducted due to the in Cambodia. 2020/report from COVID 19 situation. study visit submitted to UNDP by NRA by Q3 2020. Victim Assistance (VA) unit ACTIVITY RESULT 2: Practices of information management and surveillance of UXO survivors improved; a strategy for victim assistance formulated.

ANNUAL RESULT 2.1: UXO stakeholders and concerned line ministries are better coordinated in providing UXO Victim Assistance. VA Personnel cost VA unit Two staff members (1

VA officer

and 1 technician) 2.1.1. Conduct VA TWG meeting Indicator: Minutes of VA unit The In progress The VA TWG meeting all 4 VA TWGs meeting was held on the 30th of available on NRA will be September 2020 at the website by 1st January organized NRA. The meeting was 2021. at the NRA chaired by the Deputy office, Director of the NRA

Vientiane office, Mr. Bounpheng Capital for Sisawath. half day with all The meeting minutes is operators. being drafted in Lao. Once this document is approved, then VA unit will translate it into English and will upload the minutes to the NRA’s website. 2.1.2. Conduct field missions to Indicator: Number of VA unit In progress From the 16th to the 20th follow-up on new UXO accidents in field missions to of September 2020, the provinces across the country. follow up on new NRA office, together with UXO accidents. UNDP and the U.S Embassy met with the provincial authorities of Savannaket to discuss the coordination mechanisms for provide assistance to UXO victims in the province. On this occasion, the NRA office together with UNDP, World Education, the U.S Embassy and provincial authorities took the opportunity to meet with the family of a UXO victim and provided

support for medical care

in a total amount of

5,510,000 LAK, with

support from World

Education.

2.1.3. Record new UXO accidents and Indicator: Provision of VA unit In progress During the third quarter, casualties in IMSMA database and information on UXO there were 3 UXO publish monthly updates on NRA accidents at TWG accidents across the website. No budget line for this meetings and number country, resulting in 5 activity. of monthly updates on UXO casualties (4 boys NRA website. and 1 man).

2.1.5. Conduct the mission to follow- Indicator: Number of VA unit Completed As part of the project up on UXO Victim Assistance project field missions supported by Canada, the implementation in Salavan (this will conducted and Deputy Director of the cover by Canada budget 50,000 Dollar reported. NRA, LDPA, the VA unit Canada) December 2019 - March 2020 head and a representative project) from UNDP attended the project closing ceremony in Salavan province from the 8th to the 11th of July. The team also conducted monitoring visits to the villages and beneficiaries that received support, together with provincial and district authorities. Annual Result 2.2: UXO Survivor Tracking System is used by UXO stakeholders to provide better rehabilitation, vocational training and economic support. 2.2.1. Conduct workshop on Indicator: Number of VA unit In progress From the 24th to 28th of coordination and planning for VA meeting/workshop August 2020, the VA unit operators, provincial and district minutes on NRA conducted a workshop on authorities. website and Number coordination and planning of participants from for VA operators, as well provincial/district as provincial and district level and authorities in Savannaket Development of 2020 province. The workshop VA work plan. was chaired by Mr. Bounpheng Sisawath, Deputy Director of the NRA. 16

The workshop minutes is being drafted in Lao language and is awaiting approval by the NRA management. Once this document is approved, then VA unit will translate it into English and will upload to the NRA’s website.

2.2.2 Conduct UXO/Mine Victim Indicator: Number of VA unit In progress From the 20th to the 24th Assistance Strategy 2011-2025 workshops for the of September 2020, the Drafting Workshop. UXO/Mine VA VA unit organized a Strategy and Number UXO/Mine Victim of 2014-2020 Assistance Strategy UXO/Mine VA drafting workshop in progress report on Thalat district, Vientiane NRA website and province. The workshop availability of draft of was chaired by Mr. new UXO/Mine Bounpheng Sisawath, victim strategy 2021- Deputy Director of the 2030 NRA.

The workshop agrees on the framework for the new UXO/Mine Victim Assistance Strategy 2021- 2025 and agreed on a roadmap for the way forward.

The workshop minutes has been finalised and approved in Lao. They will soon be translated into English. Clearance (CL) Unit ACTIVITY RESULT 3: More efficient and effectively-planned release of land coordinated and regulated in accordance with development goals as prioritized in the NSEDP and other relevant national planning. Annual Result 3.1: UXO clearance operators are working in compliance with the government’s survey methodologies and all National Standards. Clearance Personnel cost Clearance L Three unit members of staff (1 CL officer and 2 technicians) 3.1.1. Conduct Clearance TWG Improved coordination Clearance L The In progress The clearance TWG meeting among CL operators unit meeting meeting was held on the by holding the TWG. will be 23rd of September 2020 at organized the Lao Women Training Indicator: Minutes of at the NRA Center. The meeting was all 4 Clearance TWGs office, chaired by the Director available on NRA Vientiane General of the NRA website Capital for office, Mr. Chomyaeng half day Phengthonsawat. with all operators. The meeting minutes is

being drafted in Lao and is awaiting approval by the NRA management. Annual Result 3.2: More clearance operations are based on evidence from survey and in the targeted areas as set out by the government’s development plans. 3.2.1. Conduct workshop on UXO Indicator: Number of Clearance L In progress From the 25th to the 27th sector coordination and planning with meeting/workshop unit of August 2020, the operators, provincial and District minutes on NRA clearance unit conducted authorities. website and Number a workshop on UXO of participants from sector coordination and provincial/district planning with clearance level and operators, provincial and Development of 2021 district authorities in Survey and CL work Savannaket province. The plan. workshop was chaired by Mr. Bounpheng Sisawath, Deputy Director of the NRA.

The workshop was attended by Provincial Labour and Social Welfare Department staff, NRA Provincial Office staff, NRA central officers and UXO operators, with a total attendance of 30 people.

The workshop minutes is drafted in the Lao. 3.2.5 Conduct provincial coordination Indicator: Number of CL unit In progress From the 1st to the 5th of and field monitoring, implementing of missions conducted July 2020, the clearance priorities for survey and clearance and Availability of unit and NRA senior activities mission reports, management met with application of Khammouane and clearance operator Savannaket provincial 19

work plans and authorities to discuss the Hectraes of land CHAs priority clearance released for plan for 2021 with development purpose funding from the US in an and Availability of amount of 7 million USD. maps of confirmed hazardous areas and land use planning information and priorities. 3.2.8. Emergency response for UXO Indicator: Number of Completed From the 20th to the 26th removal on where there is no UXO missions and UXO of July 2020, the NRA operator working in. cleared by emergency coordinated with the response. humanitarian teams of the Lao People’s Army to complete the demolition of two 57MM shells in Anouvong district, Xaisomboun province.

From the 27th to the 31st of July 2020, the NRA coordinated with the humanitarian teams of the Lao People’s Army to complete the demolition of 144 BLU 3B cluster munitions and two BLU 24 items in Pakngum district, Borlikhamxay Province.

From the 3rd to the 8th of August 2020, the NRA coordinated with the humanitarian teams of the 20

Lao People’s Army to complete the demolition of a large bomb weighing 250lb found in Borlikhan distict, Borlikhamxay Province.

During August 2020, the NRA received a request letter from the Department of Labour and Social Welfare in Vientiane Province to destroy UXO found in the province. From the 1st to the 6th of September 2020, the NRA coordinated with the humanitarian teams of the Lao People’s Army to conduct UXO survey and data collection, including a determination of the types of UXO, as well as extent of UXO contamination (area and depth). The mission found a big bomb weighing 500lb in Phounkeo village, Phonhong district; 20 mortar 60MM items in Thalat village, Keooudom district; 13 shell items located near NRA provincial office; 10 shell 21

and grenade items at the Provincial Army Comanche Office; a shell located at Nalongkhoun village; a 106mm mortar found at Thoulakom district, Vientiane capital. The demolition plan of these UXO items will be implemented in Q4.

During September 2020, the NRA received a request letter from the Department of Labour and Social Welfare in Borkeo, Luangnamtha and Oudomxay Provinces to destroy UXO found in the provinces. The survey plan of these UXO will be conducted in Q4. Quality Management Unit (QM) Activity Result 4: Effective coordination and regulation of the UXO Sector. Annual Result 4.1: UXO clearance operators continue to be in compliance with national standards. QM Personnel cost QM unit Existing 10 staff 4.1.1 Process accreditation of all Indicator: % of QM unit In progress During Q3, accreditations operators (including NGOs, clearance operators for Chifeng, XTD, LCY, commercial operators and the Lao accredited (2010: 33%, L&B, UXO clearance Army), to ensure compliance with the 2017: 100%, 2018: companies were issued. National Standards 100%, 2019: 100%, 2020: 100% MoV: NRA Annual Report) Annual Result 4.2: NRA’s team has an improved capacity to conduct Quality Assurance / Quality Control.

4.2.1 Conduct QA/QC missions of Compliance with the QM unit In progress During Q3, the QM unit UXO humanitarian operators in line National Standards, by conducted 9 monitoring with National Standards. the operators, is missions, as detailed monitored. The bellow: schedule is subject to change.  From the 17th to the 24th of July 2020, the NRA Indicator: Number of QM team monitored the Quality Assurance / work of NPA in Sekong Quality Control province. monitoring missions  From the 19th to the 25th per year (Baseline of July 2020, the NRA 2017: 15, 2018: 15 by QM team monitored the QA/QC Unit, 2019: work of UXO Lao in 15, Champasack province. Target: 2020: 18  From the 26th of July to the 1st of August 2020, the NRA QM team monitored the work of UXO Lao in Luangprabang pProvince.  From the 13rd to the 20th of August 2020, the NRA QM team monitored the work of MAG in Khammouane province.  From the 16th to the 23rd of August 2020, the NRA QM team monitored the work of NPA in Attapeu province.

 From the 6th to the 12th of September 2020, the NRA QM team monitored the work of UXO Lao in Xiengkhouang province.  From the 6th to the 12th September 2020, the NRA QM team monitored the work of UXO Lao in Sekong province.  From the 14th to the 21st of September 2020, the NRA QM team monitored the work of MAG in Xiengkhouang province.  From the 14th to the 22nd of September 2020, the NRA QM team monitored the work of HALO Trust in Savannaket province.

The NRA QM unit observed the techniques applied during clearance and UXO demolition to make sure that they safely operating and in line with national standards. The QA/QC team also provided support in terms

of improving work operations. These visits acted as a follow-up on the progress of the work plan implementation to make sure that the same standards and systems are applied.

The QA/QC reports are currently in translation from Lao to English. Annual Result 4.3: UXO clearance operators, especially technical working group members, benefit from lessons learned as shared by the NRA QA/QC Unit in a timely 4.3.1 Translate QA/QC Unit Reports Indicator: Availability QM unit In progress The QA/QC reports of with findings / recommendations for of QA/QC reports in activity 4.2.1 were continuous improvement after the both hard and soft copy approved by the NRA mission and submit to concerned and in both Lao and management in Lao but operators. English and available are currently being on NRA Website. translated into English. Once completed, the NRA will upload the minutes to the NRA’s website. Information Management Unit (IM) Annual Result 5.1: IMSMA (Information Management System for Mine Action) database is effectively maintained. Personnel cost IM unit Existing 5 staff members 5.1.1 Conduct IMSMA Follow up of Indicator: Number of IM unit Completed From the 23rd to the 30th of NRA coordination offices and UXO missions to follow up. August 2020, the IM unit Lao in 9 provinces. conducted IMSMA follow-up in 3 NRA coordination offices in Borlikhamxay,

Khammouane and Savannaket provinces. 5.1.3 Maintain a national database of Baseline: 2013: 67%; IM unit In progress This is a regular activity of all information relevant to the UXO 2015: 80%, 2016: the IM unit. The unit also sector. 95%, responds to requests for 2017: 100%, 2018: information from various 100%, 2019: 100%, line ministries, such as the Target: 2020: 100%. Ministry of Labour and Indicator: Number of Social Welfare (MOLSW) updates on NRA and the Ministry of website. Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

5.1.4. IM Technical Working Group Improved coordination IM unit IM TWG The IM TWG meeting meeting. among the UXO meeting was held on the 28th of operators that utilize September 2020 at the IMSMA by holding NRA. The meeting was the TWG. chaired by the Deputy In progress Director of the NRA Indicator: Minutes of office, Mr. Bounpheng all 4 IM TWGs Sisawath. available on NRA website by 31st The meeting minutes was December 2020. drafted in Lao and is awaiting approval by the NRA management. Once this document is approved, the IM unit will translate it into English and will upload to the NRA’s website. Annual Result 5.2.: UXO Sector stakeholders receive requested reports from national database in a timely manner. 5.2.1. Manage, maintain and publicize Indicator: All IM unit In progress Concerning IM, the unit information from databases and make stakeholders receive continued entering and relevant information available to all requested reports from validating historic and stakeholders, as required. national database in a new data that the UXO 26

timely manner. sector operators provide through electronic reporting.

Programme and Public Relations Unit (PO/PR) Annual Result 6.1.1: NRA’s Annual Work Plans are formulated with key annual results clearly defined and measurable. Personnel cost PO/PR unit Existing 3 staff Annual Result 6.1.2: Information on UXO Sector achievements is available to all stakeholders, including development partners. 6.1.2.1 Convene the Chair and Co- Indicator: 2 meetings PO/PR unit In progress On the 9th of September chair of the NRA Board Meeting. organized, 2020 UXO 2020, the NRA organized sector progress report the NRA Board Meeting is developed and at the Guest House of the availability of work Ministry of Labour and plan 2021 of UXO Social Welfare. The sector. meeting was chaired by H.E. Mr. Khampheng Saysompheng, Minister of Labour and Social Welfare and Chairman of the NRA Board.

The meeting was attended by vice chairmen of the NRA Board from Ministries, as well as other key NRA Board members. 6.1.2.4 Convene meeting of UXO Indicator: 2 meetings PO/PR unit In progress On the 18th of August Sector Working Group 2020. organized, 2020 UXO 2020, the NRA organized sector progress report the UXO Sector Working is developed and Group meeting at the availability of work International Cooperation plan 2021 od UXO and Training Center sector. (Km5), Vientiane Capital. 27

The meeting was chaired by the Minister of Labour and Social Welfare and Chairman of the NRA Board (Chair), the Ambassador of United States of America to Lao PDR, Dr. Peter Haymond (Co-Chair) and the UNDP Resident Representative to Lao PDR, Mrs. Ricarda Rieger (Co-Chair). The meeting was attended by line ministries, representative of donor countries, UNDP and UXO humanitarian and commercial operators (around 120 people).

Minutes of the meeting is with the NRA DG for approval in both Lao and English. 6.1.2.6 Convene meeting to discuss on Indicator: Number of PO/PR unit In progress On the 24th and 25th of UXO sector work plan across the meetings organized, September 2020, the NRA country. UXO sector progress organized the UXO Sector report is developed and Work Plan meeting for availability of sector 2021, at Longngum View work plan Resort, Thalat, Vientiane Province.

The workshop was opened by H.E. Mr. Padeumphone Sonthany, 28

the Vice Minister of Labour and Social Welfare and Standing Vice Chairman of the NRA Board.

The workshop was attended by line ministries, Provincial Labour and Social Welfare staff, provincial and district NRA officers from 13 provinces, representative of donor countries, UNDP, TetraTech and UXO operators.

The report of the workshop is being drafted in Lao. Annual Result 6.1.3: Better understanding is achieved thanks to media and donor field visits organized by the NRA.

6.1.3.1 Producing UXO documentary Indicator: Availability PO/PR unit Delayed As part of the New film. (Hiring company) of film in both hard and Zealand support, the soft copy, number of production of a UXO times that the film is documentary film has played through media been discussed with and Number of media UNDP to agree on the channels played the technicalities. This film. activity will continue in Q4. Annual Result 6.1.5: Information on UXO Sector achievements is available to all stakeholders.

6.1.5.1 Publish UXO Sector Annual Indicator: Availability PO/PR unit Completed The UXO Sector Annual Report 2019. of Report in both hard Report 2019 (English and soft copy and in version) has already been both Lao and English. printed and distributed to line ministries, donors, international organizations and operators. It has also been uploaded to the NRA website. For the Lao version, it is currently being printed. 6.1.5.3 Celebrate of The Day of the Indicator: The Day of PO/PR unit Completed This year, the celebration Entry into Force for 1st August of the Entry into Force for for the 10th anniversary of 2020. 1st August marked by the entry into force of the the Lao PDR with Convention on Cluster event in the capital Munitions (CCM) was city, Vientiane organised in Vientiane including publish in Capital. The NRA any media. organized an official press conference with speeches from H.E. Dr. Khampheng Saysompheng, Minister of Labour and Social Welfare and Chairman of the NRA and Ms. Ricarda Rieger, UNDP Resident Representative to Lao PDR. The event was held at the conference Room of the Social Security Fund Office of the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare on Friday the 31st of July 2020. There was 30

attendance from the line ministries, representatives from donor countries, UXO operators and other UXO stakeholders (around 60 people).

In addition, the NRA hung banners across the main streets around Vientiane capital and several articles were published in local newspapers (Vientiane Times and Lao language newspapers) concerning the 10th Anniversary of the Entry into Force of the Convention on Cluster Munitions, 1st August. Project Management Activity Result 6.2: Improved institutional development of the NRA and its integration into the regular set-up of the Government Annual Result 6.2.1: The NRA Office is functional, including the support services (equally important to achieve the results). 6.2.1.1. Managing financial, logistical No indicator identified NRA Completed The NRA National Office & human resources of the NRA. as AWP 2020 based was functional during this Ensuring all kind of payments are period. Some of the made and that proper documentation is targets for the Q3 work kept, including checking the quality of plan 2020 were “partly the supporting documents. achieved” and approximately 86% of the budget in Q3 was utilized. Annual Result 6.2.2: UNDP Technical Assistance is provided to the NRA to support strategic planning, programme management and financial management and ensure that the NRA Office is functional, including its support services, which are equally important to achieving results.

6.2.2.2 Field visits for NRA Board, Indicator: Number of NRA Completed From the 8th to the 11th of NRA director, deputy directors and missions and available July 2020, the NRA TA. of reports management attended the VA project monitoring trip in Salavan province.

From the 26th to the 31st of July 2020, the NRA management visited NPA in Salavan province. The visit aimed at monitoring and supporting the organization and management of NPA personnel and vehicles to ensure that their operations are in line with the terms of the MoU.

From the 19th to the 21st of August 2020, the NRA management visited MAG in Xiengkhouang province. The visit aimed at monitoring and supporting the organization and management of MAG personnel and vehicles to ensure that their operations are in line with the terms of the MoU.

From the 25th to the 30th of August 2020, the NRA management visited NPA 32

in Attapeu province. The visit aimed at monitoring and supporting the organization and management of NPA personnel and vehicles to ensure that their operations are in line with the terms of the MoU.

From the 14th to the 19th of September 2020, the NRA management visited HI in Huaphan province. The visit aimed at monitoring and supporting the organization and management of HI personnel and vehicles to ensure that their operations are in line with the terms of the MoU. Finance Unit Personnel cost Finance unit Existing 3 staff members Various services: Finance unit Completed

- Pay land telephone charge Finance unit Completed

- Pay mobile telephone charge Finance unit Completed

- Pay postage & pouch Finance unit Completed

- Pay newspapers Finance unit Completed

- Pay business card for director, Finance unit Completed deputy directors and officers - Pay security guard Finance unit Completed

- Pay electricity & water Finance unit Completed

- Pay bank charges Finance unit Completed

- Pay sundry (drinking water, Finance unit Completed cleaning, etc.) - Pay maintenance & licensing of Finance unit Completed hardware Administration and Logistic Unit Activity Result 6.4: Ensure logistical and administrative support for NRA activities, as well as follow-up of operators. Administration and Logistic Unit Administration Existing 14 Personnel cost (14 staff) and Logistic staff Unit members

6.4.4 Convene Seminar on the Indicator: Number of Administration In progress On the 10th and 11th of improvement of UXO sector meeting/workshop and Logistic August 2020, the NRA coordination in Laos 2020 minutes on NRA Unit convened a workshop on website and Number of the improvement of the participants from UXO sector coordination centre and provincial in Laos 2020, at level. Phetchalouen Hotel, Vangvieng District, Vientiane Province.

The workshop was opened and chaired by H.E. Mr. Padeumphone Sonthany,

Vice Minister of Labour and Social Welfare and Standing Vice Chairman of the NRA Board and Mr. B Murali, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative to Lao PDR (Co-Chair).

The workshop was attended by line ministries, Provincial Labour and Social Welfare staff, Provincial NRA officers from 13 provinces and UNDP representatives. The minutes are being drafted in Lao. Recruitment new position In Q3, many job postings were announced through In progress the local newspaper,

including: admin officer,

PR officer, HR technician,

IM technician and treaty

unit technician. Interviews

will be conducted in October. Office decoration/ renovation/ small Administration In progress The NRA always construction: and Logistic maintains its office Unit equipment. The equipment listed below was fixed/installed in Q3:

1. Installed new CCTV systems in the NRA Office 35

2. Fixed the roof of the NRA office 3. Fixed the power system of the NRA office Stationery: Administration and Logistic Unit Pay Sundry - Maintenance of garden Administration Completed and Logistic Unit Equipment/ IT maintenance: Administration and Logistic Unit Fix computer, photocopy, fax, Administration The equipment listed telephone and maintenance of air and Logistic below was conditioner. Unit fixed/maintained in Q3: 2 laptops belonging to the Army 58 unit were fixed IT & Software: Administration and Logistic Unit Vehicles maintenance/Insurance/ Administration registration: and Logistic Unit Pay fuel, change engine oil, Oil filter, Administration Completed NRA car plate numbers air filter and fuel filter, car body and Logistic 9988, 8989, 8387, 8118, checking Unit 5688, 5677, 7812 and 5526 have been fixed in Q3.

Army 58 unit vehicles (5 Sadko, 5 Toyota Land Cruiser, 5 motorbikes) were fixed in Q3.

Change tires for cars with plate Administration Car plate numbers 5688, numbers 7246,7247,7248,7256,1048, and Logistic 5677 and 8408 had their 9988,5526 and 5168 Unit tires changed in Q3.

Pay technical inspection of car (cars Administration with plates: and Logistic 7246,7247,7248,7256,9988,5526,5168 Unit and 1048) New vehicle Administration Completed In Q3, the NRA office and Logistic received new vehicles Unit from UNDP, including: 1. Toyota van 1 engine 2. GAZ truck 2 engines

Pay new vehicle registration Administration Completed In Q3, there were 4 and Logistic vehicles registered with Unit new car plate numbers (8618, 8619, 2223, 5689) Treaty Unit Activity Result 7: International treaty obligations met. Research/International Cooperation ICU Unit 2 existing

(ICU) Personnel cost (2 staff) staff Annual Result 6.2: UXO operators have a better understanding of the MOU signing procedures. 7.2.1. Conduct MoU quarterly meeting Indicator: The number ICU Unit In progress The MoU quarterly with related ministries and UXO of meetings conducted meeting was replaced by operators. and availability of the training on meeting reports, Regulations and MoU including Process for UXO Action recommendations Sector. The training was co-chaired by the Deputy Director of the NRA office, Mr. Douangsy 37

Thammavong and Mr. Vilatsone Visonnavong, Deputy Director General of the International Organization Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The meeting minutes is being drafted in Lao. 7.2.3. Conduct MoU monitoring of Compliance by the ICU Unit Completed In Q3, the ICU unit UXO humanitarian operators. operators is monitored. conducted MoU monitoring in 2 provinces: Indicator: Number of monitoring missions 1. From the 15th to (per year) to ensure the 16th of July compliance by 2020, the ICU humanitarian UXO Unit conducted operators with MoU monitoring Memorandum of of MAG in Understanding Khammouane (Baseline: 2018: 3; province. 2019: 5) 2. From the 17th to the 21st of August 2020, the ICU Unit conducted MoU monitoring of UXO Lao in Khammouane province.

3. From the 14th to the 20th of September 2020, the ICU Unit conducted MoU 38

monitoring of NPA in Salavan, Sekong, Champasack and Attapeu provinces. These missions were conducted to monitor the progress of activities and coordination between the NRA, operators and the local authorities, as well as other reporting and outstanding issues.

The reporting was approved by the NRA management in Lao but is currently being translated into English. Once completed, the NRA will upload the minutes to the NRA’s website. Activity Results 8: Humanitarian teams of the Lao army are able to deal with the long-term residual UXO threat; a transition and capacity building plan is developed and implemented accordingly. The humanitarian clearance operations by the army are under the civil oversight of the NRA Office. Annual Result 6.2.1: The NRA Office is functional, including the support services (equally important to achieve the results). 8.1.2 Operational costs for 2 teams 58 Unit Completed In Q3, the NRA handed over equipment and stationery to the Army 58 units of the Lao People’s Army to support UXO works in Khamkert district, Borlikhamxay province. 58 Unit Completed In Q3, the Army 58 unit received a budget from

NRA and UNDP to conduct UXO clearance in 3 schools in Bolikhamxay province, namely: 1. Thongkhang Secondary school 2. Jangvilay Secondary school 3. Nongsong Secondary school 58 Unit Completed In Q3, the Army 58 unit received a budget from the NRA and UNDP to conduct UXO survey in Thongviengkham village, Napae village, Vangpha village, Thavang village and Phonpheng village in Vientiane province.

2. Financial Information Summary

National Regulatory Authority (NRA) for the UXO/Mine Action Sector Summary of Funds Received (in USD) For the period ended 1 January - 30 September 2020

% to Fund Sources Earmarked Unearmarked Total Total KOICA 958,228.00 958,228.00 59% Ireland 296,912.00 296,912.00 18% New Zealand 290,196.00 290,196.00 18% Luxembourg 89,074.00 89,074.00 5%

Total 1,248,424.00 385,986.00 1,634,410.00 100%

% to Total 76% 24% 100%

National Regulatory Authority (NRA) for the UXO/Mine Action Sector Actual Expenditures per Cost Classification (in USD) For the period ended 1 January - 30 September 2020

UNDP-Managed % to Costs ClassificationBilateral Total Funds Total

Personnel Costs 557,405.30 557,405.30 46% Operating Costs Repairs and Maintenance 101,451.87 101,451.87 8% Stationery and Office Supplies 27,389.65 27,389.65 2% Rental 22,007.40 22,007.40 2% Utilities 7,822.39 7,822.39 1% Licenses 6,662.92 6,662.92 1% Phone and Internet Charges 6,620.29 6,620.29 1% Freight, Postal Handling and Storage 3,984.84 3,984.84 0% Insurance 1,439.38 1,439.38 0% Bank Charges 168.32 168.32 0% Sundries 17,886.71 17,886.71 1% 195,433.77 - 195,433.77 16% Special Operating Costs Trainings, Workshops and Conferences 211,820.19 211,820.19 18% GMS & Implementation Support Service 87,289.27 87,289.27 7% Printing, Publications and Promo Materials 58,704.37 58,704.37 5% Translation Costs 11,440.61 11,440.61 1% Forex Loss (Gain) 6,463.56 6,463.56 1% Audit Fees 3,257.00 3,257.00 0% 378,975.00 378,975.00 31% Non-Expendable Equipment Transportation Equipment 31,000.00 31,000.00 3% Computer and Office Equipment 7,370.83 7,370.83 1% Communication Equipment 7,074.14 7,074.14 1% Furniture 4,345.22 4,345.22 0% 49,790.19 49,790.19 4% Expendable Materials Other Materials and Goods 23,824.22 23,824.22 2% 23,824.22 23,824.22 2%

Total 1,205,428.48 - 1,205,428.48 100% 42

National Regulatory Authority (NRA) for the UXO/Mine Action Sector Projected Expenditures vs. Actual Expenditures - Over-all (in USD) For the period ended 1 January - 30 September 2020

Fund Sources UNDP-Managed Bilateral Funds Unfunded Total Funds Projected Expenditures (per AWP) 1,620,355.50 42,960.00 846,917.56 2,510,233.06

Actual Expenditures 1,205,428.48 - 1,205,428.48

Projected Expenditures vs. Actual Expenditures 414,927.02 42,960.00 846,917.56 1,304,804.58

Actual Exp./Projected Exp., including unfunded (%) 74% 0% 0% 48%

Actual Exp./Projected Exp., excluding unfunded (%) 74% 0% 0% 72%

National Regulatory Authority (NRA) for the UXO/Mine Action Sector Projected Expenditures vs. Actual Expenditures by Donor (in USD) For the period ended 1 January - 30 September 2020

Actual Projected Actual Exp./ Expenditures Expenditures Projected (per AWP) Exp. (%) UNDP-Managed Funds KOICA 1,134,065 741,708.05 65% Ireland 234,912 178,962.09 76% New Zealand 90,484 116,700.93 129% Luxembourg 123,131 88,220.92 72% Canada 37,763 37,758.93 100% Government of Lao 31,930.00 European Union 10,147.56 1,620,356 1,205,428.48 74% Bilateral Funds US - Tetra Tech 42,960 0% Unfunded 846,918 0%

Total 2,510,233 1,205,428.48 48%

Actual Exp./Projected Exp., inc. unfunded (%) 48%

Actual Exp./Projected Exp., exc. unfunded (%) 72%

National Regulatory Authority (NRA) for the UXO/Mine Action Sector Projected Expenditures vs. Actual Expenditures by Activity Result (in USD) For the period ended 1 January - 30 September 2020

Actual Projected Actual Exp./ Expenditures Expenditures Projected (per AWP) Exp. (%)

Institutional Development 1,295,037 689,103.69 53% Mine Risk Education 168,957 134,104.82 79% Effective Coordination & Regulation 171,043 96,239.18 56% Victim Assistance 130,555 93,084.73 71% Support to the Lao Army 86,400 76,318.76 88% Information Management 105,459 55,917.28 53% Clearance 267,768 35,225.87 13% International Treaty Obligations Met 285,014 25,434.15 9%

Total 2,510,233 1,205,428.48

Actual Exp./Projected Exp., inc. unfunded (%) 48%

Actual Exp./Projected Exp., exc. unfunded (%) 72%

RISK LOG

Project Title: Moving Towards Achieving SDG18 – Removing the UXO Project ID: 00105819 Date: September 2020 Obstacle to Development in Lao PDR June 2017-December 2021. Note: Probability (P) in the below grid is from 1 (low) to 5 (high), Impact (I) is from 1 (low) to 5 (high) in accordance with UNDP’s Risk Log. Risk Level: 1-5(Low), 6-12(Medium), 13-25(High)

Risk Date Impact & Counter-measures/ Last # Description Type Level Owner Status Identified Probability Mgm response Update (P*I) 1 Due to a delayed schedule of a Sep Threat P (5) *I (3) 15 The NRA senior NRA Sep In workshop for “Safe Path Forward III 2020 (High management are DG 2020 process for 2021-2030” with GICHD, the UXO Risk) working to resolve this sector strategy may not be finalized by issue, by liaising with 2020 and this would result in delay in Ministry officials to finalization of UXO Sector Work find a suitable time in Plans(5 year & Annual) Nov to hold the workshop 2 Due to the delay in development of Sep Threat P (5) *I (3) 15 As soon as the “SPF NRA Sep Open “Safe Path Forward III for 2021-2030”, 2020 (High III” is finalized, the DG 2020 UXO Sector 5-year Work Plan for Risk) NRA will also work on 2021-2025 may not be finalized by “UXO Sector 5-year 2020 and this would lead to delays in Work Plan” by 2020 implementation of planned activities. 3 Due to the delay in finalization of UXO Sep Threat P (4) *I (4) 16 As the UXO Sector 5- POPI Sep Open Sector 5-year Work Plan for 2021- 2020 (High year Work Plan is all unit 2020 2025, UXO Sector Annual work plan Risk) developed with targets, for 2021 may not be finalized by 2020 the NRA will update and this would lead to delays in UXO Sector Annual implementation of planned activities Work Plan by and unmet targets accordingly

4 Due to a lack of staff members in POPI Sep Threat P (3) *I (5) 15 The NRA will start POPI Sep Open unit, NRA Annual work plan for 2021 2020 (High recruitment processes unit 2020 may not be finalized by 2020 and this Risk) to fill the positions by would lead to delays in implementation 2020 of planned activities and unmet targets 5 Some of NRA staff members may Sep Threat P (5) *I (3) 15 The NRA should start HR Sep Open resign in 2020 and this would lead to 2020 (High recruitment processes unit 2020 delays in implementation of planned Risk) to fill the position soon activities and unmet targets 6 Due to Covid-19, an initial schedule for Sep Threat P (5) * I (3) 15 UNDP will start the NRA Sep In UXO sector ‘Effectiveness Assessment 2020 (High procurement process as ICTS 2020 progress Survey’ had been delayed and the Risk) soon as possible unit survey may not be completed by 2020. & This would result in low delivery rate UNDP in 2020 7 Due to Covid-19, an initial schedule for Sep Threat P (5) * I (2) 10 UNDP started the Admin Sep In ‘NRA Capacity Needs Assessment’ had 2020 (Mediu procurement process in unit 2020 progress been delayed and the assessment may m Risk) September. & not be completed by 2020. This would UNDP result in low delivery rate in 2020 8 Due to Covid-19, it is hard to invite Sep Threat P (5) * I (3) 15 The NRA and UNDP UNDP Sep In experts from abroad to Lao PDR. This 2020 (High will look for other 2020 progress would lead to very limited choices or Risk) possibilities to recruit delays in selection of necessary experts right experts for 'NRA Capacity Needs Assessment' and or 'UXO Sector Effectiveness Assessment Survey'.

ISSUE LOG

Project Title: Moving Towards Achieving SDG18 – Removing the UXO Project ID: 00105819 Date: September 2020 Obstacle to Development in Lao PDR June 2017-December 2021. Note: Priority is from 1 (low) to 5 (high)

Date Countermeasures / Last # Description Impact Priority Owner Status Identified Mngt response Update 1 Contracts of some NRA Sep 2020 This would directly Priority: 5 The NRA will prepare TORs HR Sep In staff members have been affect and start recruitment unit 2020 progress terminated implementation of processes for the vacancies as planned activities soon as possible. and result in unmet targets

2 A number of minutes and Sep 2020 This may affect the Priority: 3 All unit heads should check NRA Sep Open reports are not finalized, relationships with the status of the minutes and officers 2020 approved, translated into donors negatively, reports and finalize and English, or uploaded on result in adverse upload them on the NRA the NRA website findings of the audit website for all UXO sector and unmet targets. stakeholders by 2020

3 An agreed managerial Sep 2020 This would affect Priority: 5 The NRA will provide inputs NRA Sep In response between the the relationships on the suggested managerial DG 2020 progress Government of Lao PDR with donors response by UNDP and will and UNDP on the UXO negatively and may follow up with MPI and Mid Term Evaluation has have a serious MLSW to finalise the been delayed. impact on securing response and release the the funds in coming report as soon as possible. years.

LESSONS LEARNED LOG Project Title: Moving Towards Achieving SDG18 – Removing the UXO Project ID: 00105819 Date: August 2020 Obstacle to Development in Lao PDR June 2017-December 2021.

Date Submitted, # Type Successes Shortcomings Recommended Solutions Identified updated by

1 The August Many of the reports and minutes More documents should be collected and August 2020 availability of 2020 from this quarter were either translated so they are widely available to NRA reports delayed or unavailable in all UXO sector stakeholders from the NRA in English and hard/soft copy. This delay has website. minutes in the potential of impacting donor both Lao and relations. Additional staff need to be recruited so that English. minutes and reports can be submitted on time.