Phnom Penh: The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) signed a Record of Discussions this morning to enhance climate-resilient farming by empowering Commune Agriculture Officers (CAOs).

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, MAFF Minister H.E. Dith Tina and Ms. Choi Moonjung, Country Director of KOICA Cambodia Office, were the signatories of the agreement. The initiative, titled “Project of Building of Integrated Agricultural Extension-Education-Research Nexus of Climate Change Adaptation in Cambodia,” aims to establish a key extension-education-research nexus at the Royal University of Agriculture.

The project, with a budget of US$12 million in grant aid, will be implemented from 2025 to 2030. It aims to equip CAOs with necessary tools and training to assist farmers in adapting to climate change and enhancing their livelihoods. The source highlighted that CAOs play a critical role in disseminating essential agricultural knowledge and practices to farmers nationwide.

The news release also emphasized that the investment in CAOs is an investment in the future of Cambodian agriculture, underscoring the long-term benefits anticipated from this collaborative effort.