Country Programs for Impact: WorldFish in Cambodia

Abstract

This document provides an overview of WorldFish's contributions to aquatic food systems in Cambodia, focusing on sustainable development, food security, rural livelihoods, and environmental resilience. ​ Since 2006, WorldFish has worked to integrate fish into rice-based agricultural systems, establishing over 160 Community Fish Refuges (CFRs) that have restored wild fish populations, improved rural diets, and enhanced ecosystem health. ​ These efforts have benefited 80,000–127,000 households and sustainably managed over 200,000 hectares of rice–fish landscapes. ​The document highlights Cambodia's challenges, including rural poverty, food insecurity, climate risks, and water security issues. ​ It emphasizes the importance of integrated, climate-smart approaches such as rice–fish systems, homestead aquaculture, and wetland conservation to address these challenges. ​ WorldFish has also contributed to policy development, including the National Aquaculture Strategy and Action Plan for Cambodia 2021–2030, and capacity building for government agencies, local communities, and women.