PHNOM PENH – A five-year project funded by the New Zealand government, worth nearly $6. 9 million, is set to boost the livelihoods of 8,000 farming families across four provinces in Cambodia.

Smallholder farmers face a range of challenges, including unpredictable weather, flooding and limited access to coordination, market information, finance and technical knowledge. These barriers reduce crop yields, lower income and in some cases force families to withdraw their children from school or reduce the amount of food they can provide.

The new project, Growing Transformative Horticulture (GROWTH), announced on Nov. 29, aims to improve rural household incomes and enhance child well-being through climate-resilient horticulture.

Implemented by Save the Children in Cambodia in partnership with iDE Cambodia, the project also seeks to create a healthier and safer environment for more than 10,000 children in Koh Kong, Kampot, Siem Reap and Banteay Meanchey provinces.

New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters affirmed New Zealand’s support for the 2025–2030 project, which begins this month.

“The project will enhance Cambodia’s horticulture sector, which is crucial for rural development and builds on more than 20 years of agricultural cooperation,” Peters said.

Cambodia’s Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Dith Tina, described the project’s launch as an important first step toward modern and sustainable agriculture through collective dedication and partnership.

Hong Reaksmey, country director of Save the Children in Cambodia, said the partnership represents a shift toward building long-term resilience, moving beyond traditional agricultural support.

“We are applying a market systems development approach that prioritizes poor households and children, ensuring that economic gains translate into better nutrition, safety and education while advancing gender equality and climate adaptation,” he said.

Kevin Robbins, country director of iDE Cambodia, said the project will equip farmers with climate-smart techniques and improved market access.

“By strengthening a resilient horticulture market system, fostering private sector engagement, and empowering women-led agricultural enterprises, the project supports families to enhance their livelihoods, manage risks and build more resilient communities,” he said.

In addition to supporting smallholder households, the project will help 700 local institutions and enterprises and indirectly benefit 165,000 individuals and 200 businesses.