Save the Earth Cambodia Launches Fishers Engagement Facilitator Team to Strengthen Coastal Community Partnerships
Save the Earth Cambodia (STEC) is pleased to announce the successful launch of the Fishers Engagement Facilitator (FEF) team, following a two-day Pre-Inception Workshop held from November 18–19, 2025, in Kampot. Operating under the theme “One Team, One Coast,” the workshop marked an important milestone for the Sustainable Coastal and Marine Fisheries Project (SCMF), supported by the Fisheries Administration (FiA) and key technical partners.
The newly formed 12-member FEF team will play a central role in strengthening collaboration between the SCMF project and communities across four Ecosystem Management Areas (EMAs): Koh Kong, Srae Ambel Bay, Prek Kampong Smach, and Kep–Kampot. Their work focuses on building trust, supporting local fishers, and helping secure the long-term sustainability of Cambodia’s coastal and marine resources.
Key Outcomes of the Workshop
- Unified Strategy and Purpose: The FEF team reached a shared understanding of the SCMF project’s goals, operational framework, and their role as facilitators supporting 25 Community Fisheries (CFIs) and 15 Community Protected Areas (CPAs).
- Cluster-Based Deployment: Facilitators have been assigned to geographically strategic clusters to ensure efficient field coverage and responsive engagement with communities.
- Digital Communication Hub: A new two-platform digital strategy—Telegram for direct interaction and Facebook for broader awareness—was introduced to strengthen community outreach and information flow.
- Clear Four-Phase Roadmap: The 48-month implementation plan was reviewed, with an immediate focus on community entry, relationship-building, and early insights gathering.
- Strengthened Coordination: Reporting lines and collaboration protocols with the Fisheries Administration (FiA) and technical partner CS-01 were formalized to ensure smooth operational implementation.
Next Steps
With the workshop now concluded, the FEF team is beginning deployment across the four EMAs. Their initial tasks include community introductions, launching digital communication channels, and supporting early engagement activities with fishers and coastal stakeholders. These efforts will form the foundation for long-term collaboration aimed at safeguarding marine biodiversity, improving fisheries management, and supporting resilient coastal livelihoods in Cambodia.
Acknowledgements
Save the Earth Cambodia expresses its sincere appreciation to the Fisheries Administration (FiA) Project Management Unit for their continued support. In particular, the provision of Khmer-language project guidebooks will play a vital role in ensuring effective and culturally grounded communication with coastal communities.
