Empowering Farmers: The Rise of Drone Technology in Cambodian Agriculture

Key Takeaways:

• Tou Kousal is pioneering drone technology for agricultural practices in Cambodia.
• Agricultural innovation is becoming essential to improve productivity and reduce labor costs.
• Drones promise increased crop yields by up to 15% while minimizing chemical usage and labor reliance.
• Demonstrated successes have led to growing acceptance of drone technology among local farmers.

Tou Kousal showcases her XAG agricultural drones for daily use in farm work

A Transformational Shift in Agriculture

In Cambodia, agriculture remains the backbone of the economy, with rice serving as a staple food that constitutes nearly half of the nation’s GDP. Yet, challenges such as water scarcity and escalating labor costs threaten this vital sector’s growth. In response, agricultural innovation is emerging, with aspirations to elevate the country into a higher middle-income status by 2030.

From Farmer to Entrepreneur

Tou Kousal is breaking barriers as the first female drone pilot introducing drone-spraying technology in Battambang province, often referred to as Cambodia’s “rice bowl.” As a trailblazing entrepreneur, she generates significant income while assisting local farmers in enhancing crop yields and lowering the costs associated with agrochemicals, labor, and water consumption.

Before stepping into the drone journey, Kousal operated a 10-hectare farm alongside her husband, who managed an agrochemical store. The Covid-19 pandemic catalyzed her shift towards drone technology, leading her to invest in her first XAG agricultural drone in October 2020. This investment came at a time when farmers faced labor shortages and supply chain disruptions.

Tou Kousal stood beside a paddy field with one of her drones

Bridging Tradition and Modernity

Kousal’s entrepreneurial venture has expanded rapidly. She now operates two service teams, employing a total of seven pilots to cover 900 hectares of farmland with XAG drones, catering to hundreds of farming households.

Despite the benefits of drone-assisted agriculture, gaining acceptance among traditional farmers proved challenging. Many were hesitant to trust this technology due to unfamiliarity. To combat skepticism, Kousal arranged demonstrations comparing drone spraying to conventional methods, showcasing the efficiency and precision of drone technology. 

Local farmers watched the demonstration of XAG agricultural drone spraying crops

The results of these demonstrations were impactful. Within a year, the positive reputation of drone technology spread through word-of-mouth, leading more Cambodian farmers to explore drone services.

Kousal noted, “XAG drones can be set up easily, enabling a small team to achieve in one day what previously took several days of manual labor.” According to her data, this method of spraying not only safeguards crops but is also said to enhance yields by an impressive 10% to 15%.

Innovating for the Future

Technology isn’t just fostering agricultural productivity; it’s also empowering rural women to combat poverty. By stepping into the role of a modern farmer and entrepreneur, Tou Kousal is not only revolutionizing her own livelihood but is actively educating the next generation of farmers in Cambodia, aiming to uplift the entire agricultural landscape of her country.