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Addressing Agricultural Challenges Through Dei Meas: A Pathway to Sustainable Farming

Cambodia
Sustainable agriculture
26.02.2024
Cambodia faces pressing challenges in its agricultural sector, exacerbated by factors such as climate change, soil degradation, and high-cost low production farming practices. With the global population projected to increase significantly by 2050, the demand for food is set to rise, placing additional strain on agricultural resources. In this context, transitioning to sustainable farming practices is imperative to ensure food security, environmental protection, and the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.

Dei Meas (Golden Soil) has played a pivotal role in advancing agroecology (AE) by providing crucial support and incentives to smallholder farmers in Cambodia. Through rewarding events, Dei Meas celebrates the dedication of farmers leading the charge towards sustainability, fostering a community of practice, and driving positive change in agricultural practices.

Dei Meas held its fourth rewarding event in Reang Keasey Commune, Sangke District, Battambang Province, on January 30, 2024. The event was an opportunity for collaboration and knowledge exchange and a platform for farmers to share insights and learn from each other's experiences. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of the principles and benefits of sustainable farming, paving the way for continued innovation and growth in the sector. A total of 160 farmers have registered, covering 508 hectares of land, with 272 hectares already transitioning to sustainable practices. In 2023 alone, a total of USD $11,810 has been rewarded to farmers who implemented agroecology, highlighting the significant strides made towards agricultural sustainability.

"It is crucial to recognize the efforts of farmers transitioning toward agroecology. By showcasing the successes of these farmers, we inspire others to follow and contribute to a more sustainable agricultural future."
Mr. Pierre Vernet, Dei Meas Technical Lead 

Dei Meas pilot initiative, led by the Department of Agricultural Land Resources Management (DALRM), and supported by CIRAD, Smart Agro and Swisscontact aims to support the transition towards AE and targets smallholder farmers. It is based on three pillars:

  • Pillar 1: Incentivizing smallholder farmers to access and implement AE practices with a transparent reward system,
  • Pillar 2: Quantifying transition’s impacts (carbon, ecosystem services and other co-benefits), by calibrating a precise and cost-effective Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) system,
  • Pillar 3: Exploring financial mechanisms to ensure a sustainable business model for the initiative and its replicability.

Dei Meas Reward Events are organized at the end of the farming season and serves as a platform to recognize and reward smallholder farmers for their commitments to transition toward AE. By providing incentives and recognition, the event motivates more farmers to embrace sustainable practices, contributing to environmental sustainability, improved livelihoods, and enhanced food security.

Farmers who have received incentives through Dei Meas have expressed their gratitude for the support and recognition. Many have highlighted how it enabled them to invest in sustainable farming technologies, improve soil health, and increase productivity, underscoring the tangible benefits of Dei Meas in empowering farmers and fostering agricultural sustainability.

"The Dei Meas initiative has been a game-changer for farmers like myself, offering numerous benefits. One of the most significant advantages is the sustainable practice of no-till farming, which not only reduces ploughing costs but also minimizes the need for pesticides. This not only translates to financial savings but also contributes to a healthier environment. Furthermore, the implementation of cover crops has proven to be remarkably effective in preserving soil structure and enhancing crop yields. To top it off, the initiative includes additional incentives for farmers who choose to adopt cover crops, making it an even more appealing and advantageous practice."
Mrs. Lim Roy, Smallholder Farmer

The Reward Event spotlighted farmer champions who have spearheaded the adoption of agroecological techniques, showcasing the viability of sustainable agriculture as a pathway to prosperity.

"We commend Dei Meas program for its dedication to supporting smallholder farmers in adopting sustainable agricultural practices. This initiative is essential for the future of agriculture in Cambodia and beyond."
Mrs. Kimnay Sea, Chief of Extension Ooffice, PDAFF

As Dei Meas continues to gain momentum, the rewarding events serve as reminders of sustainable agriculture's potential to transform lives and landscapes. By honouring achievements and fostering a community of practice, Dei Meas cultivates a brighter, more sustainable future for Cambodia's agricultural sector.

Dei Meas is a 3-year pilot of the Department of Agricultural Land Resources Management (DALRM), implemented within the framework of the project "Agroecology and Safe food System Transitions in South-East Asia" (ASSET, FFEM) and supported by SmartAgro, CIRAD.  DeiMeas is further financed by Lien Aid, Quantedge Advancement Initiative Ltd. (QAI), Regen Network and Innovation for Sustainable Agriculture (ISA). Dei Meas will support the transition and bridge the financing gap by incentivizing smallholder farmers already in the first year of transition to foster the uptake of agroecological practices.