The Cambodia Partnership for Sustainable Agriculture (CPSA), a country chapter of Grow Asia, has catalyzed a groundbreaking initiative, leading 5 agricultural cooperatives from two provinces towards a collaborative learning visit on “Rice Husk Venture for Agriculture”. This venture unfolded in Kampong Chhnang Province, marking a significant enhancement for Cambodia agriculture. On February 23, 2024, representatives from five agricultural cooperatives across Kampong Chhnang and Kampong Speu provinces convened, alongside officials from the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and specialists from Husk Venture, to partake in this knowledge exchange journey.
This educational endeavor, nestled under the Strengthening Rice Value Chain project and in partnership with the Kampong Chhnang Provincial Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries alongside Husk Venture, culminated this study tour in success. Participants garnered insights into the important role of organic fertilizers, particularly those derived from rice husk charcoal, in boosting crop yield quality, quantity, and subsequently, household incomes.
Mrs. Him Thea of the Arkhpiwat Kasekam Khom Kraing Lvea Agricultural Cooperative articulated her enriched understanding of using organic fertilizer production and its critical impact on soil quality and crop productivity. She remarked, “Today’s study tour and exchange of experiences is a privilege. The in-depth focus on the organic fertilizer production process has enhanced my knowledge, articulated for my organic rice cultivation. I am eager to share these insights with my farming cooperative, contemplating the integration of this organic fertilizer into our rice cultivation practices.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mrs. Khim Sokunthea, the Acting President of the Kraing Leav Samaki Agricultural Cooperative, underscored the importance of adopting natural fertilizers in alignment with land management standards.
Mrs. Khim Sokunthea highlighted: “As an agricultural cooperative, it’s crucial we concentrate on employing organic fertilizers that meet soil standards. This study tour and knowledge exchange have illuminated the advantages and choices available in organic fertilizers, as well as their application. Effectively managing farmland levels directly correlates with improved yields!”
Mrs. Ven Sochan a representative from the AC Development Office at the Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, concurred, stating, “In my role at the AC Development Office, I see immense value in this program for our agricultural cooperatives, particularly regarding the use of organic fertilizers. These practices enhance soil quality and elevate the standard of agricultural products. This initiative offers valuable insights that I believe should be disseminated throughout our cooperatives.” She emphasized the critical role of the CPSA program in supporting and contributing to the sustainability of Cambodia’s agricultural sector, aligning with the strategic direction set by the Royal Government of Cambodia.
CPSA Project Manager, Ms. Tang Sivgech, highlighted the main purpose of this learning visit and knowledge exchange as creating a bridge between the agricultural cooperatives and the private sector, particularly with backing from the Provincial Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, aimed at enriching these cooperatives with fresh insights and experiences.
Ms. Sivgech elaborated, “The aim of this study tour and experience sharing is to forge connections within our agricultural cooperatives, specifically among rice producers, to enhance their understanding of selecting and utilizing technical fertilizers tailored to their projects. Furthermore, our goal is to establish a network that links farmers with the private sector, facilitating effective communication that supports the management and development of their agricultural practices.”
Through an almost two-year partnership, Grow Asia’s CPSA program and Heineken Cambodia have been advancing the “Strenthening Rice Value Chain Project.” Over the course of 18 months, the initiative has concentrated on enhancing rice cultivation and broadening market access. Its objectives are to elevate the efficiency of rice farming, widen market reach, and bolster farmer incomes.
Ms. Mam Vannary, Sustainability Executive at Heineken Cambodia, reflected on the collaboration: “The partnership with CPSA has been ongoing and is fundamentally aimed at fortifying the rice industry. For Heineken, rice isn’t just a crop; it’s a part of our vital component of our products.”
It’s noteworthy that this learning visit falls within the ambit of the CPSA Strengthening Rice Value Chain Project, sponsored by HEINEKEN Cambodia. The project’s core mission is to augment rice farming productivity, enlarge market opportunities, and enhance the financial well-being of farmers. To fulfill these objectives, the project undertakes initiatives like capacity building, mentoring, and training for community farmers. It connects farmers with crucial knowledge, especially in the realm of smart farming technologies, equipping them to confront the adversities of climate change and the employment of inferior pesticides.
