Vietnam reports nearly 2,000 child drownings annually, urges stronger prevention measures

The ministry, along with the World Health Organization (WHO) and Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK), called for expanded swimming lessons and water safety education, particularly in rural areas.

Speaking at an event in north-central Quang Tri Province marking World Drowning Prevention Day (July 25), officials urged local governments to increase investment in prevention programs and raise public awareness.

"Each child's death from drowning is preventable," said Tran Dang Khoa, deputy head of the ministry's Department of Maternal and Child Health. 

"We need stronger action at all levels—especially in communities near rivers, lakes, and ponds."

According to WHO, children are especially vulnerable in low-resource settings where swimming instruction is limited.

A government-backed program supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies has been rolled out in 12 high-risk provinces, training more than 52,000 children in swimming and water safety and certifying over 1,000 instructors. 

Officials say participating areas saw an average 16-percent drop in drowning deaths.