Situated in the hilly and forested region near the iconic Bu Sra Waterfall in Mondulkiri, this farm marked the beginning of Cambodia’s first ever journey into cacao cultivation. At an altitude of 600 meters above sea level, the location offers better humidity, cooler temperatures, and higher rainfall compared to the rest of Cambodia. The volcanic red soil, rich in minerals, further enhances the potential for cultivating high-quality cacao.  
Mondulkiri, renowned for its three-tiered Bu Sra Waterfall and its Bunong tribe’s cultural heritage—particularly their use of elephants for transportation—provides an ideal setting for this venture. 

Being both relatively unexperienced in cacao growing, the founders sought guidance from Vietnamese cacao expert Dinh Lam. However, when it comes to pesticides, Vietnam always rely heavily on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, a path that Chanthol and Stefan were determined to avoid. Instead, they implement natural pest control methods, including planting Neem trees, creating insect sprays from neem bark, leaves, and cow manure, and encouraging the presence of natural predators like red ants and even snakes to manage pests and rodents. 

In early 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic, the farm hosted Brazilian cacao expert Prof. Dr. Albertus Eskes, who taught them advanced fermentation techniques. This knowledge helped Kamkav Farm develop a distinctive flavor profile, now celebrated as Bunong Cacao, named after the indigenous people of the region.

CFARM Cambodia's first Cacao Association

By 2022, the vision expanded beyond Kamkav Farm with the establishment of CFARM, Cambodia’s first cacao association. Over 80 farmers joined the movement, transitioning to cacao cultivation under the guidance of CFARM. Sarun Sorn, one of the most successful cacao farmers in the region, became CFARM’s inaugural director. 

Thanks to the efforts of Chanthol, Sarun, and Stefan, Cambodia is now officially recognized as the world’s 67th cacao-producing country. Although production is still below 100 metric tons annually, it is steadily growing. Unlike neighboring countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia—where cacao production is declining due to climate change and crop diversification—Cambodia’s cacao sector is thriving. This growth is driven by sustainable practices and an agroforestry approach.