Cambodia Directs Local Administrations to Enhance Financial and Sanitation Management

In Prasat Balang district, Kampong Thom province, Cambodia, local administration officials have been urged to enhance the efficient implementation of social service budgets and environmental sanitation management. This call was made during a branch meeting and training session for district/commune councils held on September 10, 2026. Mr. Kean Sengky, Permanent Vice President of the National Federation of Councils and President of the Kampong Thom Provincial Council Association, instructed commune administrations to pay close attention to the utilization of social service budgets and environmental sanitation funds. He emphasized that understanding and correctly implementing budgets are crucial for ensuring the efficiency and accountability of commune administrations. The meeting was attended by 98 participants (37 women), including the Deputy Governor of Prasat Balang district, the head of the district council branch, commune chiefs, council members, and commune scribes. Representatives from the Prasat Balang District Council Association branch highlighted challenges faced by the association, including the lack of regular meetings, limited understanding of the roles and responsibilities of commune council members, and the current reliance on commune assistants due to the absence of scribes in two communes. The Deputy Governor stated that the meeting aimed to strengthen the understanding and capacity of district and commune councils in properly utilizing social service and environmental sanitation-related budgets. Mr. Keang Sengky further explained that the Provincial Council Association serves the common interests of the councils and acts as their voice. He added that the association's role is to promote cooperation, share experiences, and resolve challenges faced by local councils. The participants engaged in discussions and exchanged views on the use of social service budgets and environmental sanitation work, contributing to improved service delivery and local development. Mr. Keang Sengky strongly urged all commune administrations to consult sub-decrees, circulars, and distributed documents to accurately understand their budgets' revenues and expenditures. He also noted that maintaining internal solidarity and fostering good communication with working groups and partner organizations would lead to the success of their respective units. Source: AKP Khmer