Cambodhrra Cambodian Partnership for Development Human Resource in Rural Area Association
From 7–12 September 2026, CamboDHRRA, under the CHANTI Project (Agroecology Alliance to Promote Sustainable Cashew Nuts in Cambodia), successfully organized a Cashew Nut Business Planning and Development Training in Preah Vihear and Kampong Thom Provinces.
The training aimed to equip Agricultural Cooperatives (ACs) and Commune Agricultural Officers (CAOs) with practical tools to transform cashew production into market oriented, financially sustainable businesses. Participants were guided through a structured three stage learning process:
1. Business Opportunity & Model Development – using the Generate Your Business Idea (GYB) approach and the Business Model Canvas (BMC).
2. Market & Operations – designing 4Ps marketing strategies, procurement, logistics, and quality assurance.
3. Financial Viability – applying costing, pricing, break even analysis, cash flow forecasting, and risk management.
A total of 82 participants joined the training, including cooperative leaders, CAOs, and NGO staff. Notably, 34 women took part, reflecting CamboDHRRA’s commitment to gender equality and social inclusion in agribusiness development.
The training adopted a highly participatory and practice oriented methodology. Instead of lectures, participants engaged in group work, simulations, peer reviews, and hands on exercises. Highlights included:
• Cashew Value Chain Mapping to identify opportunities and challenges.
• SIYB Business Simulation Game to practice decision making.
• Gallery Walk & COFFEE Peer Review to strengthen cooperative learning and accountability.
By the end of the training, each cooperative had:
• Finalized a five year business plan.
• Presented their plan to peers, trainers, and CAOs for feedback.
• Developed follow up commitments to ensure implementation beyond the training.
CamboDHRRA extends its deep appreciation to Action for Development (AFD) for trusting our services and supporting this initiative. Their partnership has been vital in empowering cooperatives to become stronger actors in Cambodia’s cashew value chain.
This training marks an important step in transforming cashew from production into profitable business, strengthening rural livelihoods, and promoting sustainable agroecology. CamboDHRRA remains committed to supporting cooperatives with ongoing coaching, market linkages, and technical assistance to ensure long term impact.
