The Australian Government is helping Cambodian farmers improve their agricultural productivity by enhancing the Skouy breed of chicken. The Skouy breed, locally known as "Morn Srae", is popular for its delicious meat and excellent egg-laying ability.

The Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) is supporting the first community breeding system for chickens in Cambodia through a chicken genetics project. The project, led by a team of Cambodian and international scientists, aims to develop a Skouy breed that is more productive and its chicks can be sold at higher prices.

The program is also equipping farmers with the knowledge and skills required to apply breeding selection methods, flock management, appropriate feeding, vaccination and biosecurity, and artificial insemination on hens.

"We hope the improved Skouy breed will be available in the market in the next few years," said an embassy spokesperson. "This will provide Cambodian farmers with a more productive and profitable chicken breed, which will help to improve their livelihoods."

The Skouy chicken breeding project is part of ACIAR's broader program to support agricultural development in Cambodia. ACIAR has been working in Cambodia for over 30 years, and has helped to improve the productivity of crops, livestock, and fisheries.

The program has also helped to increase farmers' incomes and reduce poverty. ACIAR is committed to working with the Cambodian government and other partners to improve the lives of Cambodian farmers and their families.