18 November 2025
With the support of SMERGC, in partnership with Tétraktys, as part of a cooperation project funded by the AFD, Khammouane Province has officially approved the governance framework and management structure of the Hinboun Geopark, marking a key milestone toward its recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark. This decision by the Governor confirms the strong commitment of provincial authorities to sustainable territorial development based on the enhancement of natural and cultural heritage.
Placed under the authority of the Province of Khammouane, the governance system is built around a Steering Committee bringing together the province, the districts, sectoral departments, and local authorities.
An operational management team is responsible for implementing the strategy, supported by a Scientific Committee and an Advisory Committee involving experts, civil society, and economic stakeholders.
The framework also provides for diversified public and private funding mechanisms.
Through this structuring decision, Khammouane affirms its ambition to make the Hinboun Geopark a lever for conservation, local development, and the international visibility of the Lao PDR and thus fully supports this cooperation initiative led by the SMERGC in partnership with Tétraktys, as part of a project funded by the AFD.
