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Social capital and the performance of farmer water user communities (FWUCs) in Takeo Province, Cambodia
Dissertation Abstract:
This study analyzed the critical social capital variables related to the level of performance in three selected farmer water user communities (FWUCs) in Takeo Province, Cambodia. Specifically, the study aimed to: (1) describe the sociodemographic and economic profile of the respondents, (2) describe the level of adequacy of social capital operating in three selected FWUCs in Takeo Province, (3) determine the critical social capital variables and their contribution to the level of performance in three selected FWUCs in Takeo Province, and (4) recommend course of actions to concerned institutions to improve the performance of social capital in the FWUCs.
The study was conducted in three selected FWUCs from three villages, three
communes, and three districts of Takeo Province. Stratified random sampling method was used. A total of 256 FWUC members were interviewed. Twenty-seven respondents were divided into three groups for focus group discussion (FGD) from each FWUC. Primary data were gathered through 11 key informant interviews. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the data analyses.
Results showed that the level of adequacy of social capital in terms of groups and networks, and information and communication in three FWUCs in Takeo Province was low. However, there was moderate level of adequacy of social capital in terms of trust and solidarity, collective action and cooperation, social cohesion and inclusion, and empowerment and political action. It resulted to moderate performance of the FWUCs because the FWUC officers lacked knowledge and skills especially on planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. Furthermore, their commitment in the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems was poor. Finally, the level of profit from farm production was low. On the other hand, the extent of trust and solidarity, participation, and interaction among FWUC members and officers highly contributed to effective management of the irrigation system, while other variables of social capital also contributed at various rates.
Based on these findings, some recommendations at the national level were forwarded. MOWRAM should intensify efforts in implementing PIMD policy; and launch more information education and social marketing campaigns to motivate farmers in joining FWUCs thereby increasing trust, solidarity, participation, and cooperation among communities. Involving institutions especially the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and the MOWRAM should resolve their overlapping functions on water use management to allow the smooth performance of the FWUC. At the local level, promotion of the importance of social capital on effective implementation of FWUC programs should be undertaken. Additionally, more participation of the pagoda (monks) should be encouraged to develop unity and trust among farmers in building, operating, and maintaining irrigation systems.