‘Land theft – or the involuntary eviction of people from their homes, is when people are forced to leave their land and sometimes even give up their homes because influential people want to use their land for other purposes. Land theft occurs both in rural areas and in cities. Land is the only asset that many poor people have and a means of generating income. When the poor lose their land or their homes, they also lose their opportunities for income and financial security’ – Sida (Swedish International Development Agency) NGO.
Highlighting the issue
80 per cent of Cambodia's population lives in rural areas
2-3 per cent of Cambodia's population was landless in 1999
In 2007, the number of landless people had increased to 25 per cent
In 2004, the poorest 40 per cent of Cambodians owned 5.4 per cent of the land
Also in 2004, the wealthiest 20 per cent of Cambodia's population owned 70 per cent of the land.
About the community
A community of over 400 families evicted from Dey Krahom, Phnom Penh.
Originally relocated to Borey Santepheap II in December 2009 but since the community has been relocated to Srah Po village in Odong.
The basic infrastructure is lacking and inadequate.
Families have been given a 4m x 6m plot of land for their homes.
Families have no resources to build homes; there is no good source of water; there are 2 latrines in the whole community of 400+ families; most people do not have enough food to eat; and only 57 children have been able to enter schools in the area.
Description - How is Kone Kmeng partnering with this community?
There are both short-term and long-term needs in this community. The short term needs are relief and development assistance; we are looking for support to help with latrines, wells, foodand shelters. Kone Kmeng has started a Sunday school and there are plans to start a preschoolfor the children. Kone Kmeng is also supporting the families with plans for income generation - these are all with a long-term focus.
Activities
For 2010 Kone Kmeng plan to work in partnership with Pastor Sina and the community to -
Support 63 children to attend the local primary school.
Run a non-formal education class for children.
Help 63 poor children in Blue Tent Community in order to get spiritual grow in 2010.
Provide motor repair training to 5 youths and provide beauty school training to 5 girls.
Conduct workshop on basic health care, domestic violence, human trafficking and child rights to the community.
