Phnom penh: In Cambodia’s southern Kampot province a growing number of farmers are embracing integrated farming systems, cultivating diverse crops and raising livestock on the same land.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, agricultural specialists and local farmers in Trapeang Bei commune, Chhouk district, confirm this approach is significantly improving soil quality, boosting yields, and enhancing food security. The system also bolsters farmers’ resilience to market fluctuations and contributes to more stable livelihoods.

Local officials are actively promoting integrated farming to strengthen the province’s agricultural sector and bolster its tourism potential. Chim Ngoy, a technical officer for agriculture in Trapeang Bei commune, highlighted the substantial benefits of this method. “Farmers who practice integrated farming in my commune generally enjoy better livelihoods than those who focus on a single crop or livestock type,” Ngoy stated on Thursday.

Farmers engaged in integrated farming manage a wide array of produce, including coconuts, jackfruit, mangoes, bananas, papayas, and various vegetables like morning glory, long beans, corn, eggplants, and chilies. Simultaneously, they raise ducks, pigs, cattle, and fish. This synergistic system sees animal manure used as fertiliser for crops, while surplus vegetables and fruits feed livestock and fish, dramatically reducing the reliance on chemical fertilisers. Farmers report that the diversity of their production buffers them against severe financial setbacks even if a particular crop does not find a ready market.

While acknowledging that integrated farming may not lead to significant wealth, the farmers emphasise it enables them to live comfortably and sustainably. Ngoy noted that out of Trapeang Bei commune’s 1,603 households, the vast majority are farmers. However, only about 10 percent have adopted integrated farming practices. He urged more farmers to consider this system to improve their well-being, fortify the local agricultural landscape, and attract more tourists to Kampot province.