Cambodia Launches New Strategy for Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Improvement

The Ministry of Rural Development of Cambodia has officially launched its national strategic plan for rural water supply and sanitation, which will be implemented from 2026 to 2033. The announcement was made during an official ceremony held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the Ministry's headquarters, presided over by H.E. Chhay Rithisen, Minister of Rural Development. The event was attended by H.E. the Secretary of State, excellencies, ladies, and gentlemen, leaders of the Ministry, representatives of relevant ministries and institutions, deputy governors of provinces who lead the technical working groups for rural water supply and sanitation in all 25 provinces, representatives of development partners, national and international non-governmental organizations, leaders, and officials from the Ministry of Rural Development and the provincial rural development departments of all 25 provinces. Mr. Sreang Puthi presented a welcome report, detailing the process of preparing the strategic plan and the objectives of the announcement ceremony and consultative workshop. Mr. Yi Kimthan, acting country director for Plan International, delivered remarks, affirming the organization's past support for rural development, particularly in the areas of water supply and sanitation. Regarding rural water supply and sanitation, H.E. Chhay Rithisen stated that the Ministry of Rural Development has been actively contributing to the implementation of the government's national policies and strategic plans. The Ministry has successfully prepared and implemented two phases of the national action plan for rural water supply and sanitation. Based on the National Policy on Rural Development for 2025-2035, the Ministry of Rural Development, in close cooperation with all relevant stakeholders, has prepared the Strategic Plan for Rural Water Supply and Sanitation for 2026-2033, which was officially launched on this occasion. Additionally, a consultative workshop was held on the draft guidelines for verifying access to safe drinking water for all. His Excellency the Minister urged all participants to actively discuss and provide feedback that will be incorporated to make the development of these guidelines more comprehensive and realistic. Source: AKP Khmer