AKP Phnom Penh, May 02, 2025 --

NatureLife Cambodia, with support from the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF), has been actively promoting women’s participation in natural resource management through its recent project.

The project focuses on empowering women in biodiversity conservation at the Stung Sen Ramsar site while also creating sustainable livelihood opportunities and meaningful roles for women, said a news release of NatureLife Cambodia issued yesterday.

According to the source, at Toul Neang Sav Plov Loung Community Protected Area (CPA), the project has achieved significant progress. women now lead biodiversity patrols, manage fish processing groups, and run savings groups. These activities not only provide financial independence but also strengthen women’s roles in community decision-making. The female CPA chair, who previously considered quitting because she felt isolated among male-dominant committee members, found her inspiration and increased confidence to take on leadership roles after welcoming her peer women to join her.

Building on this success, NatureLife expanded the programme to Balot CPA at Boeung Tonle Chhma Ramsar site. On April 7, 2025, a training session at Balot CPA equipped locals to become gender empowerment trainers. Participants discussed challenges, shared solutions, and developed plans to educate their communities through small-group sessions. They will host monthly workshops for 10-15 households, aiming to raise awareness among all 100 households in the community within six months. These sessions will also introduce opportunities to join Balot CPA Committees for natural resource protection, including monthly patrols and conservation activities.

By C. Nika (Photo: NatureLife Cambodia)