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Asian Journal of Agriculture and Development (AJAD) - Call for papers!

Impact on Women of Community-based Conservation Agriculture in Vegetable Production System in Puok District, Siem Reap, Cambodia

(Cambodia), Master of Science in Community Development (University of the Philippines Los Baños)

Thesis Abstract:

The study analyzed the impact on women of community-based conservation agriculture in vegetable production system in terms of enhancing production, increasing household income, and facilitating technology transfer. The study covered three villages, namely, Ampel Peam, Prey Thlok, and Bramar in Khnat commune in Puok district, Siem Reap province, Cambodia.

The research used a case study design that involved 18 women who have implemented community-based CA. Data gathering method included survey of women farmers, key informant interview of CA leader and staff, and focus group discussion of selected women farmers. The results of the household survey were analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequency distribution, percentages, means, and range.

Result showed that most women farmers had small land size for CA vegetable farming. Their husband was the most important partner in decision-making in vegetable farming at different levels. Women farmers also had a high percentage of involvement in vegetable farming activities. However, the women rarely owned agricultural capital they need. The community-based agriculture cooperative is a key component to promote women's involvement in CA vegetable farming. Even though there are less than 50 percent of successful women farmers, all of them can grow at least two cycles in less working hours and savings in water than in conventional vegetable farming. They also earned more income (more than US0) with less than 250 m2 while conventional could earn only US$ 123 with 400 m2. Furthermore, they were able to share information and experience to 121 neighbors including 88 women through traditional communication (face-to-face).

In conclusion, community-based CA is a development strategy to promote small-scale vegetable farming through community development concept to Increase production, income, and improve women's knowledge on technology transfer within the community.