Environment minister Eang Sophallet (in white hat) , Koh Kong governor Munna Phuthong and government officials plant mangrove seedlings during the ‘Mangrove Peace Festival’. Environment ministry
Nearly 60,000 mangrove trees have been planted in Koh Kong province since the beginning of last year. Additionally, more than 20,000 saplings are currently being cultivated to support further reforestation efforts, aimed at protecting coastal areas and biodiversity.
Around 5,000 saplings were planted across three hectares as part of the three-day “Mangrove Peace Festival”.
The festival ran from February 28 to March 2, in Koh Sralau village, in Koh Kong district’s Koh Kapi commune. It was held to raise awareness about the importance of mangrove forests.
They are a vital ecological system that provides numerous environmental and social benefits, including coastal protection from natural disasters, serving as a habitat for biodiversity and offering economic opportunities for local communities, explained the Ministry of Environment.
Environment minister Eang Sophalleth led ministry officials, in collaboration with the Koh Kong provincial administration, local authorities, armed forces, youth environmental groups, the Meta Nature Organisation and local community members, in planting the new saplings.
“Mangrove forests help stabilise soil and protect coastlines from erosion and landslides. Additionally, they play a crucial role in reducing and preventing natural disasters such as storms,” the minister said.
“Beyond that, mangrove forests act as a natural filtration system by absorbing pollutants and waste from water sources, improving water quality and maintaining ecological balance. They also serve as crucial breeding and nursery grounds for various marine species, supporting fisheries and food security,” he added.
Moreover, mangroves have a high capacity to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping mitigate climate change.
They also act as a natural barrier against climate change impacts while providing income and employment opportunities for local communities through agriculture, fisheries, eco-tourism and forest-based products.
According to the ministry, Cambodia has approximately 60,000 hectares of mangrove forests, primarily in coastal provinces like Kep, Kampot, Preah Sihanouk and Koh Kong.
Among them, Koh Kong has the largest mangrove forest area, covering more than 40,000 hectares — about 80% of Cambodia’s total mangrove forest coverage.
Koh Kong provincial governor Mithona Phuthong addressed the opening of the event. He noted that in 2024 alone, 54,800 mangrove trees were replanted across the province.
Currently, the provincial environment department is cultivating 28,000 more saplings for future reforestation in various locations.
Meng Heng, president of the Meta Nature Organisation, called on communities and stakeholders to participate in conserving and protecting natural resources for the common good and for future generations.
Sophalleth encouraged collective efforts to enhance the beauty and greenery of Cambodia to attract more investment and tourism.
Such efforts would contribute to a cleaner environment, a greener society and sustainable national development, he explained.
The minister further highlighted the potential of Koh Sralau in the Ramsar-designated Koh Kapi area in Koh Kong province.
He emphasised that the area will provide significant employment and fishery resources for local communities.
However, he stressed the need for a clear development plan to ensure a harmonious balance between humans and nature for sustainable development in the region.
