Home to more than 80 Hmông households with over 430 residents, Nà Bủng 3 has long struggled with difficult travel conditions, especially at night. But since March 2025, under the “Border March” program, the youth-led “Lighting Up Border Roads” project installed 19 solar-powered streetlights along the route, making daily life safer and more vibrant. “The lights bring us joy, safety, and peace of mind,” said village head Giàng A Giang.

The success in Nà Bủng is mirrored across the former Mường Ảng district, where nearly 20km of rural roads in 24 villages were brightened by 225 solar streetlights in 2024. As part of the “Lighting Up Rural Roads” initiative, local youth not only mobilized funding but also poured concrete, set poles, and installed lamps themselves, demonstrating their role as a driving force in building new rural areas.

“All the lighting projects use solar energy, perfectly suited for local conditions, easy to install, automatic, and cost-free for villagers,” explained Quàng Mạnh Hải, Deputy Head of the provincial Youth Union’s Youth Front Board. “That’s why every completed project brings real joy to the people.”

Launched in 2016, the “Lighting Up Rural Roads” program has spread widely. Inspired by the first 10km project in Ẳng Nưa commune, communities across Điện Biên have since contributed funds and labor to expand solar lighting. In 2024 and the first half of 2025 alone, an additional 84km of rural roads were lit through Youth Union initiatives and social support.

Most recently, on August 19, young people in Pa Ham commune installed nine solar streetlights along the road from National Highway 6 to the commune People’s Committee office, supported by the Mường Chà 2 Area Program.

Streetlights shining bright, roads bright, and faith shining brighter, these projects embody the volunteer spirit of Điện Biên’s youth, spreading hope and transforming the rural landscape.