In the village of Trapeang Sangkae, where the river meets winding mangrove forests, lives a man whose quiet strength is the heartbeat of his community. Liv Sophal’s work ripples far beyond the edge of his fisheries—he is a leader, a mangrove conservationist, and a vital force behind his community’s eco-tourism efforts.
Sophal, a father of four and grandfather of five, shares his home with his extended family under one roof. But outside that home lies an even greater duty—defending the lifelines of more than 800 families who depend on the health of their waters and forests.
Every day, Sophal stays in a floating hut near the community’s fisheries—feeding fish, repairing nets, purchasing supplies, and managing natural resources. As a caretaker of the fisheries, he contributes to the efforts of 27 families who are actively involved in local fish management.
“From the time we release the baby fish, it takes about six months before they’re ready to sell,” he explains. With each cycle, he earns around 1,000,000 riels (approximately $250), selling close to 100 fish. It’s a modest but vital income, anchored in the rhythms of the sea and the strength of community.
But Sophal’s true legacy is rooted in something even deeper.
He is deeply involved in mangrove conservation—planting the very forests that shield his village from rising tides, nourish marine life, and breathe life into the planet. “Planting mangroves helps fishermen. It increases the number of fish and crabs, supports eco-tourism, and protects our coastline,” he says.
Beyond the Nets: Climate Resilience, Sustainable Livelihoods
Through Action Education / Aide et Action’s CO-SAVED project, co-funded by the European Union, Sophal and other community members have been equipped with vital tools: training in proposal writing, business planning, and economic development.
These skills are the keys to unlocking resilience, innovation, and economic independence for a village on the frontlines of climate change.
Thanks to these initiatives, Trapeang Sangkae is not just surviving—it is adapting to climate change and thriving. Locals are increasingly aware of the importance of protecting their environment, understanding that sustainability and livelihoods go hand in hand.
Sophal is more than a fish farmer—he is a symbol of hope, of what’s possible when knowledge meets purpose. He is also a builder and a protector. He takes the time to patrol protected areas, contributes to building infrastructure, and leads by example—instilling in his children, grandchildren, and even visitors a deep respect for the land and sea.
In an era defined by environmental crises, the story of Liv Sophal and the Trapeang Sangkae community sends a powerful message to the world: true resilience begins at the roots. When people are empowered with knowledge, tools, and a shared purpose, they become protectors of their environment.
They are the Lovers of the River—lighting the way forward.
