The Akha People (also referred to as Hani/Akha People), are an estimated 2.5 million persons living in Yunnan province in Southwest China, the northern parts of Laos, Vietnam and Thailand, and eastern Burma.

They live in a central part of what is currently called the ‘Mekong Quadrangle’, an area of about 500 by 600 km or 30,000 sq. km, somewhat the size of the European Alps.

The Akhas are concentrated in an area that is crossed by several major rivers: the Mekong, the Red and Black Rivers, and the Salween, and their many tributaries which cut steep valleys.

Of crucial contemporary significance, this border area covers part of the territory of five modern nation-states. The total population of this region, including quickly growing industrial centres, is about 15-20 million.

The Akha live mostly in the mountains interspersed with other ethnic groups, but are concentrated in certain areas.

“Akha,” according to some, means “In Between (high upland and lowland) People”. The official number of Akha in the mountains of Thailand is now 58,000 persons (Tribal Research Institute, 1995).

Given the high number of non-registered Akha and large scale urbanisation, the total number of Akha in Thailand is probably closer to 75,000 persons.

Most Akha still live in remote villages today. Many are born in these remote villages and don’t have documentation proving they were born in Thailand. This leaves them ineligible for public health care and education. They struggle to survive under challenging conditions and meager opportunity.

A People in Danger… A Reason for Hope

The Akha People are rich in culture, history, knowledge, and tradition. But they are also among the world’s most impoverished. Tragically, many Akha children die from lack of medical care and from malnutrition. The medium life expectancy of Akha is still only 43 years.

Akha women remain remarkably resilient in the face of a harsh life and unsure future. It is primarily the women who work the fields and provide sustenance for the family. Additionally, the women maintain a treasure of Akha culture: traditional herbal medicine and healing massage techniques. Among the younger Akha women, these traditions are being lost. Some children are led into prostitution to earn money.

The Akha Women’s Foundation provides opportunities for the Akha women so they can receive training and education, provide for their families, and share their culture. Click here to learn how you can be part of this worthwhile cause, and enjoy the treasure of the Akha people.

Credit http://www.akhawomensfoundation.com

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