Most notable among these is the “Lighting up the Countryside” initiative, which brings brightness to remote villages, ensures social order, and transforms the landscape of mountainous rural regions.

In January 2026, a 500-meter road in Huổi Thẩu Đeng village, Nậm Nèn commune, was illuminated by ten solar-powered streetlights installed by local youth union members. The project, costing VND 25 million provided through the provincial Youth Union, was a collaborative effort.

Hạng Thị Chua, Secretary of the Nậm Nèn commune Youth Union, noted that approximately 20 members from the village and local schools spent a full day digging holes, setting poles, and pouring concrete foundations. This completion brought immense joy to the villagers, as the roads are now safe to navigate at night without the need for hand-held flashlights, particularly at dangerous bends where traffic safety has significantly improved.

The success in Huổi Thẩu Đeng follows a productive 2025 for youths of Nậm Nèn, during which they completed six similar projects across the villages of Phiêng Đất A, Hô Mức, Háng Trở, Huổi Mí 1, Lùng Thàng 1, and Lùng Thàng 2. A total of 58 solar lights worth nearly VND 120 million were installed along village roads and near schools and community areas, successfully illuminating over 2 kilometers of rural pathways.

Similar progress was seen in Mường Toong commune, where the local Youth Union mobilized members to contribute labor and materials for 13 solar-powered poles in Mường Toong 1 village. Completed in early March 2026, the project covers a 1-kilometer stretch. Village head Giàng Văn Khải shared that the community is ecstatic because the lack of light previously made travel difficult for the elderly and children. Now, the well-lit roads prevent accidents and deter individuals from exploiting the darkness for social vices or illegal activities.

Mùa Chiến Thắng, Secretary of the provincial Youth Union, emphasized that these initiatives have received enthusiastic support from youths across the province. By connecting with various organizations, businesses, and individuals to mobilize funding and materials, the Youth Union completed 28 projects in 2025 alone, covering 18.5 kilometers of rural roads with a total investment of over 400 million VND. Since the beginning of 2026, four additional projects have been installed in Mường Toong, Mường Nhé, Nậm Nèn, and Sam Mứn, extending the illuminated network by another 2.5 kilometers. These projects do more than just light up the night; they beautify the villages, improve traffic safety, and elevate the overall quality of life for rural residents.

Building on these achievements, the Youth Union levels in the province plan to further strengthen their connections and resource mobilization. The journey to “Light up the Countryside” will continue to expand, bringing more light to highland and rural villages through the combined strength and dedication of Điện Biên’s younger generation.