Almost 75% of people in Cambodia are employed in agriculture. Decades of civil war and economic stagnation have hampered production for the nation’s smallholder farmers. Many women entrepreneurs lack access to expertise and the resources to make their farms thrive.
Heifer International has had a presence in Cambodia since 1999, working alongside women farmers to enhance their ability to raise more, sell more, and earn more from chicken, swine, and vegetable value chains.
We work across the country to connect farmers with scores of women-run self-help groups, agricultural cooperatives, and unions. These strong networks enable women farmers to join forces and access markets and financial capital. Our programs advance women leaders, reduce domestic violence, and give women more prominent voices building successful farming enterprises.
More than 333,000 families supported by our work.
Our current project, Inclusive Markets for Smallholder Farmers, equips farmers with the tools they need to produce chickens, pigs, and vegetables to meet domestic demand, as well as charge fair market prices.
Women farmers trained in better livestock management are increasing production, improving nutrition and generating additional revenue. Through cooperatives supported by Heifer, farmers are taking on the marketing of their products, establishing direct connections with catering businesses, restaurants and retailers.
Farmers are learning to compost, use renewable energy sources and clean stoves, and plant trees, to improve the environment. And families are healthier than ever, with increased access to clean water and toilets.
Heifer International invests in farmers and business owners around the world, because we know having a secure source of income can be truly transformational for families and their communities. With support from our in-country teams, project participants build sustainable businesses to close the living income gap.
Living Income is the amount of money each person in a household needs per day to live a dignified life.
In Cambodia, we are currently using US$3.10 in Southeast and Northwest.