SALT the most vital ingredient in all of our cooking cost very little money to buy. Up in the Wa Region (One of the ethnic groups from Burma), Shan State, and border with China, salt plays even more important roles for the farmers.

The following story comes from Ywin Shin village in Shan State; here a family man tells of how two bags of salt brings joy to the whole family.

When ADRA Myanmar with the help of funding from World Food Program (WFP) decided to start the Livestock Revolving Fund Project in Ywin Shin village, U Liao and the family signed to receive some livestock. In this the case the livestock was two very healthy sows. Within four months of receiving them the animals double their sizes and were doing well. U Liao’s family was happy that their two pigs were getting bigger. They took great care of the animals. Selling them would bring them much needed cash for the whole family. But misfortune followed the family when the man of the house (U Liao) suffered from Hepatitis and had to be admitted to the hospital for two weeks. Small amount of saving was used up in paying for the different treatments while in the hospital. Mrs. Liao was busy taking care of her sick husband in the hospital. The neighbours took care of their children while both parents were away in the hospital.

When he was discharged from the hospital, U Liao came home and saw that his prized pigs were getting thinner than before. He was upset thinking he wouldn’t get much money when the time comes to sell them. He devoted his time and energy in looking after the two pigs while trying to recuperate from his illness. Within two months the animals were strong and fat again. Then one day it was time to sell the animals, they were sold for 630 Yuan. U Liao was happy.

He bought one more pig with 400 Yuan from the livestock bank as a second beneficiary. The 230 Yuan that was left over was enough to buy two bags of salt. Two bags secure their salt supply for two years.

A very happy man said”Every time I put salt into my cooking, I will always remember and thank ADRA and WFP for helping us poor villagers.’

This Livestock Revolving Project is funded by World Food Program and ADRA Myanmar implements it.