Calls made for support of animal husbandry
ANIMAL husbandry plays an important role in improving livelihoods and boosting the national economy.
Experts have called for increased support for the sector, saying this would reduce the risk of livestock losses and improve the agricultural industry overall, making a significant contribution to the Kingdom’s food security.
Phang Piseth, animal health specialist at CP Cambodia, said that while a lack of understanding of animal husbandry techniques and healthcare meant the Kingdom had suffered from several outbreaks of diseases in the past, adequate training could reduce the risks.
Every three days, Piseth takes blood samples from the chickens he cares for, allowing him to monitor their antibodies.
“This helps me to predict an outbreak of disease, meaning I can administer treatment timely. This also provides increased stability to investors,” he said.
A major challenge facing the field of animal husbandry in Cambodia is the reluctance of some farmers to accept new techniques, he added.
“I encourage farmers to raise animals in a way that keeps the animals safe and free from deadly diseases. They should know how to ensure that their animals are safe for the public to eat,” he continued.
Dith Tina, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, said the ministry’s General Directorate of Animal Health and Production has made significant efforts to modernise the sector.
“Some difficulties remain.
Unfortunately, there are some diseases already in circulation, and this affects the current breeding population. In addition, we have limited laboratory facilities and the trained specialists needed to reform the Kingdom’s livestock breeding programmes,” he said.
He added that in order to promote the livestock sector in Cambodia, the ministry is seeking to attract investors to secure capital for the expansion of the necessary infrastructure.
“By strengthening the private sector, we will accelerate the development of farms and increase the amount of high-quality animal products we export,” he said.