Prey Veng Province Becomes Third ODF+ Certified Province in Cambodia

Prey Veng Province has officially been recognized as the third province in Cambodia to achieve Open Defecation Free (ODF+) status, a significant public health and rural development milestone. The official declaration ceremony, held on September 9th, was presided over by H.E. Dr. Chhay Rithisen, Minister of Rural Development, and attended by government officials, provincial leaders, development partners, and approximately 1,370 residents. H.E. Suon Somalin, Governor of Prey Veng Province, presented a report detailing the province's geographical overview, public order, and general public services. He highlighted the increased access to safe water and rural sanitation among residents, leading to the ODF+ certification. Mr. Yi Kimthan, Country Representative ad interim of Plan International Cambodia, remarked that this achievement reflects Cambodia's strong progress towards its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6, which ensures availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. H.E. Dr. Chhay Rithisen expressed his admiration for Prey Veng's development and congratulated the province on its achievements across various sectors, including security, order, economy, society, and culture. He specifically praised the improvements in living conditions through enhanced safe water supply and sanitation services, the adoption of clean water consumption habits for health, proper toilet usage, and the promotion of civilized living standards, which collectively earned the ODF+ designation. The Minister also elaborated on the Ministry of Rural Development's efforts in implementing the National Rural Development Policy 2025-2035, which envisions an "inclusive, equitable, and sustainable prosperous rural Cambodian society." Key strategies include developing resilient rural transport infrastructure, improving rural living conditions, fostering resilient and inclusive mixed rural villages and communities, diversifying the rural economy, and strengthening governance and cooperation. Currently, the national coverage rate for basic safe water supply stands at 89%, with safely managed water services at 25%. Rural sanitation coverage is at 95% for basic facilities and 51% for safely managed sanitation. The achievement of ODF status across all 25 provinces and cities, with Phnom Penh, Kandal, and Prey Veng now reaching ODF+, represents a historic accomplishment for the government. Dr. Chhay Rithisen called upon all relevant stakeholders to continue their close cooperation to further enhance rural sanitation, adhering to four core principles: inclusivity, quality, sustainability, and innovation. This initiative aligns with the first phase of the Royal Government's "Pentagonal Strategy" under the wise leadership of H.E. Dr. Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, aiming to achieve Cambodia's vision of becoming a high-income country by 2050. Source: AKP Khmer