| By Kong Phano and Try Kimlong, ADRA Cambodia
Pursat, Cambodia – On May 22, 2025, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Cambodia, in partnership with local authorities, officially launched three key community-based initiatives aimed at strengthening disaster risk reduction, enhancing community disaster resilience, and promoting climate-smart sustainable agriculture in Pursat Province:
- The ARISE III project (Adaptive Resilience Initiative for Sustainable DRR Engagement)
- The V-BIOCHAR project (Vermicompost & Biochar Integration for Climate-Smart Farming)
The joint launch event, held at the Pursat Provincial Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, brought together over 70 participants, including government officials, disaster risk reduction (DRR) committees, and community representatives.
ARISE III: Building Resilience to Disasters
Funded by the Czech Republic Development Cooperation, ARISE III is being implemented from April to December 2025. It aims to reach more than 4,900 people across 10 communes and 71 villages in Bakan, Kandieng, and Krakor districts. The project focuses on strengthening local disaster governance, building resilient infrastructure, and equipping communities with practical tools for risk reduction and preparedness.
“ARISE III aims to equip communities and local leaders with the tools and knowledge to reduce disaster risks and prepare for climate shocks,” said Mr. Try Kimlong, Program Coordinator at ADRA Cambodia.
“ADRA Cambodia is committed to ensuring that all our programs align with national priorities. This project is being implemented in close coordination with government partners to directly contribute to Cambodia’s National Action Plan on Disaster Risk Reduction 2019–2028, especially its goals to strengthen disaster governance, promote resilient food systems, and integrate DRR into commune-level development planning”
“Floods and droughts are already impacting our agriculture and economy,” said Mr. Hai Thura, Director of the Department of Agriculture.
“This project complements our work by supporting commune officers and farmers to access services and build local livelihoods.”
“We urge all stakeholders to integrate DRR into Commune Investment Plans and work closely with ARISE III,” said H.E. Lim Sokto, Pursat Deputy Governor.
“This project arrives at a critical time and will help our communities build resilience against future disasters.”
“This is an opportunity for communities and DRR committees to plan and act together,” added Mr. Chea Henglong, Deputy Governor of Bakan District.
“Let’s commit to making a lasting impact.”
To contribute to the broader goal of strengthening food systems and building climate resilience, ADRA Cambodia is complementing its disaster risk reduction work with sustainable agricultural initiatives. This commitment is reflected in the V-BIOCHAR project, which promotes eco-friendly farming practices to support long-term community resilience.
V-BIOCHAR: Promoting Climate-Smart Farming
Running from March 2025 to March 2026, the V-BIOCHAR project is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with the financial support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic. The 12-month initiative promotes sustainable agriculture by introducing biochar and vermicompost technologies to improve soil fertility, reduce chemical use, and boost farmer incomes.
“This project aims to improve soil quality and crop productivity using natural methods,” said Mr. Try Kimlong.
“Farmers will also join study tours to learn from successful models in Kampong Thom.”
“By promoting compost and biochar, we can reduce waste, improve food safety, and support sustainable farming,” said Mr. Hai Thura.
“This aligns with our national agricultural priorities and supports farmers with practical, eco-friendly solutions.”
“Vermicompost is a natural fertilizer that strengthens ecosystems and supports sustainable agribusiness,” said H.E. Lim Sokto.
“This project helps modernize agriculture while restoring the environment and protecting biodiversity.”
“This is a great opportunity for farmers to increase their income and reduce reliance on chemicals,” said Mr. Chea Henglong.
“I hope it continues to benefit communities long after the project ends.”
Both projects demonstrate strong collaboration between ADRA Cambodia and local authorities, with generous support from the Czech Republic, to advance sustainable development, disaster preparedness, and climate-smart agriculture in Pursat Province.
