In Cambodia’s coastal provinces, farming is the lifeblood for many families, yet local communities like those in Trapeang Sangkae, Kampot, often face significant barriers. Access to quality tools, resources, and markets remains a major challenge, leaving many farmers struggling to maintain stable incomes.
Productivity suffers due to limited access to high-quality seeds, essential farming equipment, and technical training. Fluctuating market prices and poor local infrastructure only add to the difficulty. To turn these challenges into opportunities, targeted support is crucial to empower farmers to thrive.
Co-Action: Breaking Barriers, Building Businesses
Under the CO-SAVED project, which is co-funded by the EU, Action Education / Aide et Action delivers Co-Impact Investment funds to support local producers. In 2024, three families in Trapeang Sangkae received these funds through Heifer, one of our implementing partners. The goal was simple: to boost agricultural productivity and scale their businesses.
These families, eager to start duck egg production, were provided with essential financial investment, training, and resources such as high-quality seeds, farming tools, and guidance on livestock raising, agricultural practices, and business management.
With this comprehensive support, they were able to build a sustainable duck egg business, supplying local markets with fresh eggs. Notably, one of the families includes a Cham school teacher, and the school now has its own duck farm, providing not only income for the family but also for the community’s children.
Co-Impact: Sowing Prosperity Through Training and Support
Today, these families are reaping the benefits of their work and skills. They are now generating an income from their duck egg production, with earnings ranging between $100 to $400 per month, depending on the number of eggs produced. Each family reports collecting between 500 to 600 eggs daily, which they sell at 430 to 450 Khmer riel ($0.10 to 0.11) per egg.
The success story from Trapeang Sangkae demonstrates the importance of agri-business as a sustainable livelihood alternative for coastal communities. It is only one example of how the right support can transform lives. In 2024, more than 1500 fishery community members received training in agri-enterprise solutions with the goal of providing a viable alternative for fisherfolk to generate income, while over 400 smallholder farmers received material support through Co-Impact Investment funds.
By providing the right tools, training, and investment, CO-SAVED partners are not only helping these families achieve greater economic independence but also contributing to the sustainability of their farming practices.
