Increased Incomes Boost Participation in Thlorkvean Meancheay Agricultural Cooperative’s Organic Vegetable Production
Farmer and Nature Net Association (FNN)
Cambodia
In the village of Thlork Vien, Samaki Meanchey District, Kampong Chhnang Province, Cambodia a small dream began to grow. In 2019, with the guidance of the Farmer and Nature Net Association (FNN) and support from local authorities, seven farmers came together to form an organic vegetable producers group, with the goal to produce healthier crops, better yields, and higher incomes.
The Thlorkvean Meanchey Agricultural Cooperative cooperative was one of those supported by the APFP-FO4A program, which helped strengthen farmer organizations across Cambodia. With this backing, the group quickly expanded to 12 members. Every month, the group gathered faithfully, sharing techniques, exchanging experiences, and planning their next steps. By 2021, their numbers had swelled to 22 producers.
At the heart of this movement was woman farmer Mey Theing. As a leader, she signed contracts with companies like KOC, ensuring that their harvests had a secure market. Her team of 10 members divided the work—she grew 500 seedlings, while others tended to 300 each. Together, they supplied wholesalers and local markets, averaging 300 kilograms of fresh produce every month. Shops like Sna Dai Mei received 15 to 30 kilograms daily, while direct consumers enjoyed the chance to buy organic vegetables straight from the farmers.
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The Capturing Agroecology in Action Video Contest seeks to spotlight the transformative power of agroecology, focusing specifically on its benefits for farmers’ organizations and agricultural cooperatives. Farmers’ organizations and agricultural cooperatives play a crucial role in promoting sustainable agriculture practices, empowering smallholder farmers, and strengthening rural communities. By showcasing real-life examples and success stories, we aim to inspire and educate audiences about the potential of agroecology to address pressing challenges such as food insecurity, environmental degradation, and rural poverty. Click here for more information.