Pursat, Cambodia – November 7, 2024: The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Cambodia, in collaboration with the Pursat Provincial Departments of Agriculture and Commerce, held a workshop to mark the successful conclusion of the Vermiculture Based Sustainable Organic Innovative Livelihood (V-Soil) Project. This 11-month initiative (March 2024 – November 2024) was made possible through the financial support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and additional contributions from the ADRA/MFAT New Zealand ProMarket project. The project was managed by ADRA Czech Republic/Cambodia.
Held at the Pursat Provincial Department of Commerce’s meeting hall, the event was presided over by Mr. Tem Pichsovanna, Deputy Director of the Provincial Department of Commerce; Mrs. Chey Channy, Deputy Director of the Provincial Department of Agriculture; and Mr. Felipe Gonzalez, ADRA Cambodia Country Director.
The workshop focused on two main objectives:
- To share the results of the V-Soil Project: Officially transferring the Core Team, Business Leader groups, and Marketing Networks to relevant government institutions and private sector partners.
- To discuss future sustainability strategies: Outlining continued commitments and activities for vermiculture farmers, aligning with government agricultural strategies and sustainable development goals.
A total of 71 participants attended the event, including officials from the Departments of Agriculture and Commerce, district and commune agricultural officials, village and commune authorities, Core technical group members, Business Model farmers, input suppliers, orchard/farm workers, nursery operators, and representatives from local agricultural units and individuals.
During the event, ADRA Cambodia Country Director Mr. Felipe Gonzalez shared his reflections on the project’s impact: “As we conclude the V-SOIL project, I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together. This initiative has empowered farmers with sustainable skills that will benefit both our communities and the environment for years to come. ADRA Cambodia is grateful for the dedication of our partners, experts, and local farmers, whose commitment has turned this vision into a reality.”
Mr. Tem Pichsovanna expressed his appreciation for ADRA’s efforts in training farmers to use earthworm compost, which utilizes organic waste to enrich the soil. “Chemical fertilizers are costly and have negative impacts on soil health, the environment, and human health. By using earthworm compost, farmers can lower costs, achieve higher yields, and improve the health of the soil without harmful side effects. I encourage all farmers to adopt this sustainable approach.”
In a closing remark, Mrs. Chey Channy emphasized the project’s lasting benefits: “The V-Soil project has been transformative in helping farmers reduce chemical fertilizers and restore soil health through earthworm composting. As this project concludes, we hope farmers continue building sustainable livelihoods, knowing that the Department of Agriculture will keep supporting their journey toward a greener Pursat.”
For local media coverage, please watch here: https://www.facebook.com/PursatTelevision/videos/944346134420196
