Address: 36 Ngo Quyen, Group 3, Ward 6, Duc Tai Town, Duc Linh District, Binh Thuan Province.
Đức Linh is a highland district of Binh Thuan province, located 150 km north of Ho
Chi Minh City and bordering Dong Nai province to the south. It covers a total land area of 53,491 hectares and has a population of 130,766 (according to the 2014 Government Survey) residing in 83 villages across 13 communes in the district.
The economic situation in Đức Linh faces numerous challenges. The average income in 2014 was approximately 1,500,000 VND (72.10 USD) per month, significantly lower than the national average of 3.8 million VND (183 USD) per month. The causes of poverty in the district include lack of capital, limited cultivable land, outdated agricultural techniques, and its remote location from urban areas.
Đức Linh also grapples with a high poverty rate. There are 11,390 people living below the poverty line, accounting for 8.71% of the population. On average, individuals below the poverty line have a monthly income of around 330,000 VND (15 USD or 13.5 EUR). This poverty situation negatively affects health and education in the communities. Access to clean water is limited, with only 36.9% of households having toilet facilities before intervention projects were implemented.
Despite these challenges, organizations such as Thien Chi have been working tirelessly to improve the situation in Đức Linh. Collaborating with local authorities including the People's Committee, Women's Union, Health Department, and Education authorities, Thien Chi has achieved significant progress. For instance, the rate of helminth infections has dropped from 90% to 9% through eradication and education programs. Successful initiatives have also led to a reduction in malaria and dengue fever cases.
Education remains a major concern, as approximately 25% of children give up their right to higher education due to financial constraints or the need to contribute to their family's income. However, the dedication and efforts of Thien Chi, along with the support of local communities and authorities, have garnered recognition for their programs implemented in Đức Linh.
Đức Linh, despite its challenges, possesses potential and valuable resources. The district is renowned for rice production, fruit trees, livestock farming, and fishing along the La Nga River. However, the lack of capital and outdated agricultural techniques hinder the district's economic development.
Throughout its development, Đức Linh has received positive support and cooperation from Thien Chi, as well as local authorities. Intervention programs and projects have been well-regarded and officially acknowledged by the local community and relevant authorities. With these collective efforts, Đức Linh is gradually transforming and striving for a brighter future for its community and residents.