October 10, 2024
PHNOM PENH – Eight local communities have signed small grants agreements (SGAs) with the USAID Conserve project to build capacity, improve community livelihoods and preserve natural resources on the Tonle Sap and in wildlife sanctuaries.
The small-scale direct grants are provided because these communities serve as the front line in safeguarding protected areas, which play a vital role in conserving wildlife and natural resources. Providing direct grants to community-based organisations (CBOs) is the foundation of USAID Conserve’s approach to locally led environmental conservation and community development, according to USAID Conserve on Tuesday, October 8.
“By improving the livelihoods of local communities, the pressure on natural resources is reduced. Additionally, grants enhance community capacity through training and coaching, leading to better conservation efforts and sustainable development,” it noted.
Grants were provided to two community protected areas, namely Mlu Prey Kurb and Sambo Aphiwat, located in Srayorng commune in Preah Vihear’s Kulen district, and five community fisheries (CFi), including Kampong Prohok, Anlung Ta Our, Prek Toal, Tvang and Kbal Toal in Prek Toal on the Tonle Sap in Battambang province. The remaining CFi is Phat Sanday, located on the Tonle Sap in Kampong Thom province.
The essential elements of each grant include enhancing the institutional capacity of CBOs, improving local livelihoods, engaging in carbon financing projects and conserving community-managed ecosystems, it added.
The signing ceremony, witnessed by USAID Cambodia, relevant provincial departments, commune chiefs and community members, is part of USAID Conserve’s plan to provide a total of 278 direct grants to CBOs.
Before the agreements were signed, each community presented their project plans to local stakeholders to secure their support and buy-in.
Local authorities noted that they were well-informed about CBO activities and committed to supporting the implementation of the grants.
Srayorng commune chief Srey Koeum, who attended the signing ceremony, told The Post that the community protected area Mlu Prey Kurb, located in the Kulen Promtep Wildlife Sanctuary, received a grant of over $12,000.
“The project is good, and the grant will be used to train, strengthen community capacity and promote forest conservation,” he said, adding that it is the first time the community has received such a grant.