In Cambodia QSA is involved in the production of organic food gardens and support for income generating activities in rural communities. Cambodians are still living with the effects of the brutal Khmer Rouge regime and a thirteen year civil war that followed. While 35% of the population still lives below the poverty line, improvements in industry have contributed to recent economic growth. 

Department of Women's Affairs

Food Gardens

Those who have just completed their training will be able to harvest vegetables. When gardens have established and properly fenced, the gift of livestock such as chickens and pigs mean that farmers have increased protein in their diet, manure for the garden and a small income. A gift of a large water jar creates storage for rainwater runoff from the roof and reduces the number of times people need to go and collect water. Well collars around wells ensure the safety of children and animals and preserve the purity of the water supply by preventing surface contaminants from entering.
 

Pursat DWA

Sustainable economic development is an important part of economically appropriate partnerships. QSA’s partnership with the Department of Women’s Affairs (DWA) in Pursat, Cambodia, is one that is proudly moving towards financial independence.

The Bun Rany Hun Sen Development Centre in Pursat is a project of DWA and is supported to fund training courses, run a craft centre, and provide skills for women and men so that they are able to earn a living. There is a range of training courses include mat weaving, dyeing and weaving of fabrics, making use of natural dyes, sewing cloths and bags, makeup and hairdressing, carving and computer training. Once students have finished their training they can become employee producers of the Centre, where their produce is marketed. 

A major project of this centre is the dyeing and weaving of cottons. Cotton sampots (skirts) and kramas (scarves) are then woven using looms made from local materials. Ten farmers in Baakan District have been trained in growing the special grass which is being used for producing and selling weaving mats. This particular grass has similar growing conditions to rice, and is a variety close to papyrus in appearance. Training will be provided in the time consuming task of slicing the grass.

Training sessions are also being provided in broom making. The brooms, of the short handled variety, are made with a bamboo handle, natural fibre bristles bound with a cane twine. QSA will provide funds for child minding so that attendees can concentrate on the session.

Photos: The Bunrany Hunsen Development Centre (left) and weaving (right) Credit: QSA