Before Mea started raising chickens on her farm in Cambodia, life for her family was challenging. For years, Mea and her husband relied on traditional farming and animal raising practices that left their livestock vulnerable to disease and predators. Unpredictable weather also threatened their rice crops. The couple’s income was unstable and insufficient, and the family had to sell rice set aside for their own meals and borrow money to get by.

Everything began to change when Mea connected with a Community Agriculture and Business Advisor (CABA) through a project supported by World Renew and its local partner, OREDA. CABAs are trained community-based advisors who support farmers with improved techniques, business skills, and market insights. Together with CABAs, the project helps smallholder farmers like Mea improve their food security and livelihoods.

New opportunities with raising chickens in Cambodia

In 2019, Mea had the opportunity to join a village chicken producer group through the project. She received chickens, training in poultry management and vaccination, regular coaching from a CABA, and exchange visits with successful farmers. Through the program, Mea began to shift from traditional techniques to a market-oriented approach for raising chickens in Cambodia.

By 2022, Mea grew her efforts into a business. She became a community chicken collector, sourcing chickens, ducks, and eggs from other farmers to sell at the weekend market. With access to the project’s investment fund, she has been able to purchase larger quantities each week, creating a steady source of income while freeing up more time to manage her own farm.

A brighter future for Mea’s family

Today, thanks to raising chickens in Cambodia, Mea’s family has enough food and income. She also has a vision to continue growing her business. Mea credits the encouragement and practical feedback from the program for helping her build skills and confidence.

“I have gained new skills; my family has sufficient food and an increase in income that improves our living conditions,” Mea shares. “I am committed to continuing to practice improved agriculture techniques and approaches, and I will pass on the experience I have with new group members and other farmers.”

Through World Renew’s food security programs, more families like Mea’s are finding practical ways to build brighter futures. With access to training, mentorship, and resources, smallholder farmers can better feed their families today and in the weeks and months to come. That’s what meaningful, lasting change looks like.