Perspective on Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture in Cambodia's Capital: Phnom Penh

Abstract

Due to population growth and urbanization over two decades, Phnom Penh Capital's area has almost doubled from 375 square kilometer in 2001 to 692.46 square kilometer in 2019. Meanwhile, the number of farmers declined from 36.77% of the population in 2001 to 10% in 2015. Respecting these issues, the government of Cambodia prepared the Land use master plan of Phnom Penh City 2035. However, no clear implementation of the plan and the fast growth of construction have become the main concerns of international donors. Moreover, the integration of Phnom Penh with some areas of neighboring provinces will affect agricultural activities. Therefore, this research aims to ascertain more details of agricultural land use in Phnom Penh by responding to the Master Plan and to explain the current activities of urban agriculture or peri-urban agriculture in the capital. Owing to the pandemic, this research was conducted by solely reviewing and analyzing legal documents, reports from the government and donors, and other reliable sources. The Land use master plan clearly indicates the space reserved for the peri-urban agricultural activities; however, there are no details regarding agricultural policy dealing with the space reserved for peri-urban agriculture. The involvement of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries is also not explained. Based on the reports from donors and NGOs, lack of roles and responsibilities, limited capacity and limited finance have become the main concerns for the government regarding implementation of the Master Plan. Importantly, current rapid growth of construction does not pay any attention to the development of city plans. Housing complex projects have increased from 77 in 2011 to 178 projects in 2019. Some private businesses are practicing peri-urban agriculture on the outskirts of the capital by growing, selling some vegetables, and providing the space for the relaxation.