Phnom Penh – The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and Cambodia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) have officially launched a major collaboration aimed at building resilience within Cambodia’s agricultural sector amid growing climate challenges.
In a ceremony held at MAFF headquarters, Ms. Choi Moonjung, Country Director of KOICA Cambodia Office, and H.E. Dith Tina, Minister of MAFF, signed the Record of Discussions (RoD) for the “Project of Building an Integrated Agricultural Extension-Education-Research Nexus of Climate Change Adaptation in Cambodia.” Senior officials from both sides were also in attendance.
Funded through a USD 12 million grant from KOICA, the project will be implemented over a five-year period from 2025 to 2030. It seeks to create an integrated system connecting agricultural extension, education, and research, with a specific focus on climate change adaptation. A key emphasis of the project is the capacity building of Commune Agriculture Officers (CAOs), who serve as the primary link between agricultural knowledge and farmers at the community level.
The project will support infrastructure development at the Royal University of Agriculture, including the construction of two dedicated buildings: one for higher education in field extension and another for CAO training. In addition, the initiative will provide updated curricula, modern equipment, and educational and training materials to support effective learning. Faculty members will benefit from both overseas training opportunities and in-country capacity-building programs.
Speaking at the event, H.E. Dith Tina stressed the importance of this collaboration:
“Climate change poses a significant threat to Cambodia’s agricultural sector, the backbone of our economy and the livelihood of millions. This partnership with KOICA will empower our Commune Agriculture Officers with the skills and knowledge needed to promote climate-resilient agricultural practices, ensuring food security and sustainable development.”
Ms. Choi Moonjung reiterated KOICA’s strong support for Cambodia’s development goals, stating:
“KOICA is committed to working closely with the Cambodian government to build a resilient and prosperous agricultural sector. This project aims not only to strengthen the capacity of CAOs but also to foster collaboration between research institutions, educational bodies, and extension services, ensuring an integrated approach to climate change adaptation.”
The project is expected to result in higher agricultural productivity, improved livelihoods for farmers, and greater resilience against climate impacts, ultimately contributing to Cambodia’s broader sustainable development objectives.
