Strey Phokphal Meanchey Agricultural Cooperative

Cambodian Co-op Chair Named FAO Women Hero as Capital Tops $130,000

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Cambodian Co-op Chair Named FAO Women Hero as Capital Tops $130,000

LITTLE ROCK – October 29, 2026 -- A Cambodian agricultural cooperative led by Set Hach has grown its capital from about US$2,275 to more than US$130,000, a track record behind her place on the UN Food and Agriculture Organization's list of 100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems for Rural Development, Heifer International said.

FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu presented the award in Rome on October 15

Hach chairs the Strey Phokphal Meanchey Agricultural Cooperative in Siem Reap Province. She received the award from FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu at FAO headquarters during the World Food Forum. The recognition was established in the spirit of the 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.

Cooperative membership rose from 82 to 540 across 30 villages

The cooperative was established in 2016 with 82 members, including 79 women. By 2025 it counted 540 members, including 451 women, across 30 villages. Member shares total 3,014.