A solar-powered water pumping station in Wattamin commune has been put into operation to improve agricultural productivity and climate resilience for rural farmers. Oxfam
Ireland has announced a funding package of €800,000 ($872,00) for a climate-related programme, led by Oxfam Cambodia. The initiative aims to support rural communities in the northern part of the Kingdom through climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy, climate resilience and rural development.
The announcement was made by Noel Grealish, Irish Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, on March 19, during the launch of a solar-powered water pumping station in Battambang province’s Wattamin commune, in Sangke district.
The project is designed to enhance agricultural productivity and climate resilience for Cambodian rural farmers. The programme’s team will work closely with the Cambodian government to help develop and strengthen climate policies.
In addition to installing the solar-powered water pumping station, the project will provide training for farmers on sustainable water management and usage.
Through the Irish embassy in Hanoi, the Irish government has contributed €84,000 towards the construction of the pumping station, ensuring that local communities have an adequate water supply throughout the year.
More than 220 families will benefit from the water system, which will irrigate 234 hectares of farmland. The inauguration ceremony included demonstrations of the solar-powered pump system and knowledge-sharing sessions with farmers, according to an Oxfam press release.
During the event, Grealish described the importance of the agriculture and food sector to Ireland’s economy, highlighting that Ireland has 135,000 family farms producing high-quality food. The country prioritises technology and innovation to enhance value, competitiveness and sustainability across the sector.
He noted that small-scale farmers are the backbone of Cambodia’s agriculture and critical to the sector’s future. He described the solar project as “a strong example of investment not just in technology but also in Cambodia’s farmers and sustainable agriculture”.
“The shared agricultural experience between Ireland and Cambodia presents valuable opportunities for cooperation. As part of Ireland’s growing engagement in Cambodia, we are pleased to increase our funding for initiatives like the programme we are launching today,” he said.
Battambang deputy governor Pheng Sethi highlighted the province’s reputation as Cambodia’s “rice bowl” and stressed the importance of reliable irrigation systems.
“This solar-powered water station not only boosts agricultural productivity but also aligns with Battambang’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly development,” he said.
Phean Sophoan, Oxfam National Director, explained that the initiative is targeting some of Cambodia’s poorest communities to tackle climate change and rural poverty.
“The project launched today demonstrates the importance of addressing climate challenges and poverty together. We know it will help improve the livelihoods of many families in this region,” she said.
Svang Im, head of the local Water User Cooperative echoed the sentiment, emphasising that water is a crucial resource for farming.
“This project ensures that our farmers have consistent and affordable water access year-round, allowing them to expand cultivation, increase yields and secure a better future,” he said.
