Reestablished in 2022, the Women Water Hyacinth Processing Business Hub began with just six dedicated members and has since grown to include 15 women and young girls from Anlong Taour and Prek Toal village in Koh Chivang commune, Ek Phnom District, Battambang province. This expansion highlights the increasing recognition of the hub’s benefits, such as skill development and economic opportunities.

At the forefront of this initiative is Ms. Roth Chhay, the Chief Leader of the Women Water Hyacinth Processing group. Roth has been instrumental in enhancing the skills and business knowledge of women in the community. Her leadership is marked by a strong commitment to empowerment, particularly through hands-on training in water hyacinth processing techniques.

The economic impact of this initiative is considerable. Roth generates an average income of about $1,300 annually from selling handmade crafts, including placemats and handbags. This income is vital for her family, enabling her to purchase essential goods like rice, vegetables, and fuel. Moreover, the business has granted her a level of financial independence and security, diminishing her reliance on her husband’s income.
Training is a cornerstone of the Women Water Hyacinth Processing Business Hub. Members receive extensive training from Fisheries Action Coalition Team (FACT) in production techniques and marketing strategies, which help them enhance their skills and improve their product offerings. Roth actively participates in these sessions and also serves as a mentor, guiding her daughters and fellow group members in the complexities of water hyacinth processing. This mentorship cultivates a culture of continuous learning and skill development.

The group collaborates with various stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), to boost women’s skills and promote eco-tourism in the area. This networking has been crucial in raising awareness of women’s contributions to the local economy. The initiative has garnered recognition for its role in empowering women and fostering sustainable local economic development.

The Women Water Hyacinth Processing Business Hub exemplifies a successful model of women’s empowerment through sustainable livelihoods. By leveraging local resources and providing training and support, the initiative not only encourages economic independence but also promotes social empowerment among women. As the hub continues to expand, it stands as a beacon of hope for similar initiatives aimed at uplifting women in rural communities, contributing to broader goals of economic and social development.

This initiative is part of the “Fisher Folk Making Circular Economy Work for the Western Tonle Sap Lake” project, funded by the European Union (EU). Oxfam leads the project in partnership with the Fisheries Action Coalition Team (FACT) to revitalize the women’s business hub.