Mondulkiri Province Releases 200,000 Fry to Boost Natural Fish Stocks

Mondulkiri Province, Cambodia, has launched a campaign to release 200,000 fry of various species into community fish habitats and reservoirs, aiming to restore natural fish stocks and enhance food security for local communities. During the campaign, Mondulkiri Provincial Governor Kong Kimny highlighted the province's abundant natural water resources, despite its highland and mountainous terrain. He noted the government's commitment to constructing large reservoirs and dams, such as O'Tety and Sen Sokdom, to serve agriculture, supply clean water, and importantly, create potential natural fish resources and habitats for the residents. Governor Kimny further stated that Cambodia possesses rich aquatic resources, with the fisheries sector being a vital component of national wealth. Fish constitute a significant protein source for Cambodians, averaging 52.4 kilograms per person annually, accounting for approximately 71.5% of their protein intake. The release of fry is expected not only to replenish natural fish stocks but also to contribute to poverty reduction and ensure food security in rural areas. On behalf of the provincial authorities, Governor Kimny earnestly appealed to local officials, law enforcement, technical officers, and all citizens to collectively protect and preserve the released fry. He stressed the absolute avoidance of illegal fishing gear and the capture of small fish, allowing them to grow and provide sustainable benefits. According to Dr. Song Khang, Director of the Provincial Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, the 200,000 fry, comprising 14 different species, were divided with 150,000 released into the O'Tety Dam fish habitat community in O'Raing District and the remaining 50,000 into the Sen Sokdom Dam in Sen Monorom City.