Tailored Solutions for Rural Prosperity: Microfinance for Small Holder Farmers

Sustainable agriculture
23.07.2024
From January 16th to 18th, 2024, Swisscontact, in collaboration with MetKasekor and partners, including Chamroeun Microfinance Plc., successfully conducted a series of Focus Group Discussions (FGD) in three districts of Battambang and one district in Preah Vihear. The FGDs were attended by 120 farmers (80 from Battambang and 40 from Preah Vihear) and aimed to collect feedback on farmers' specific needs regarding microfinance credits and crop insurance.

The discussions' main objective was to gain insights into the requirements of smallholder farmers, facilitating the development of tailored microfinance products and crop insurance schemes. In response to the received feedback, Chamroeun Microfinance Plc. is currently in the process of developing a microfinance product scheduled for release in February.

The discussions revealed varying interests among farmers in the two regions. In Battambang, farmers expressed interest in both microfinance credits and crop insurance, indicating a growing awareness of the importance of financial support and risk mitigation. Conversely, in Preah Vihear, farmers primarily showed interest in microfinance credits, highlighting regional differences in priorities and needs.

Microfinance plays a crucial role in rural agriculture by providing smallholder farmers with accessible and affordable financial services. It serves as a catalyst for agricultural development, offering farmers the financial means to invest in seeds, fertilizers, and equipment, ultimately enhancing productivity.  

This upcoming microfinance product from Chamroeun, signifies a step towards comprehensive financial support for Cambodian farmers. This initiative not only addresses the specific needs identified through the FGDs but also aligns with the broader goal of fostering sustainable agricultural practices and rural development in the region.

Cambodia
Sustainable agriculture
Innovation for Sustainable Agriculture 
The project promotes appropriate technologies and extension services for a sustainable intensification of agricultural production leading to reduced negative impacts on the environment including an improved soil health that allows smallholder farmers to increase their productivity and income.