Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth has urged environmental officials to share knowledge about growing vegetables and raising tree seedlings in order to help strengthen food security and provide support to displaced people and the Kingdom’s frontline soldiers.
He promoted the initiative during a December 25 knowledge-sharing event on tree nursery management and vegetable cultivation at the provincial-level nursery in Tbong Khmum province, located in Preah Theat commune, Ou Reang Ov district.
The event was organised in cooperation with the Ou Reang Ov district administration and local authorities, with participation from teachers, students and many local residents.
The minister noted that the ministry has been encouraging its technical officers to disseminate knowledge on cultivating diverse seedlings and organic vegetables to teachers, students, local authorities and the wider public. The campaign was designed so that participants can continue applying the knowledge in schools, pagodas and communities.
“Fruit trees and organic vegetables are easy to grow and give good yields. Short-cycle vegetables such as all types of mustard greens, water spinach, eggplants and others can meet daily household needs, strengthen food security, increase incomes, support displaced people and also help our brave frontline soldiers who are stationed along the Cambodia–Thailand border defending the country against aggression,” he said.
At the same time, the minister noted that the ministry has been promoting the “Ponlork Baitong” campaign at tree nurseries under provincial and municipal departments nationwide, as well as at five regional nurseries in Tboung Khmum, Siem Reap, Kampong Speu, Mondulkiri and Koh Kong provinces. These activities are aligned with the Royal Government of Cambodia’s environmental sector strategy, particularly the second pillar, “Greening”.
Participants pledged to continue cultivating and caring for tree seedlings and vegetables, so they grow well and meet the needs of families and the nation, in the spirit of “Khmer helping Khmer, Khmer standing together in solidarity, Khmer loving peace”.
The programme also contributes to the “Together for the Nation” movement initiated by first lady Pich Chanmony, secretary-general of the Cambodian Women’s Association, which promotes the growing of fast-harvest vegetables in schools, homes, pagodas and community land to build national agricultural output and support frontline soldiers and people who have been displaced by Thai aggression.
