Cambodia to Host 3rd National Sanitation Forum, Rural Development Ministry Holds Preparatory Meeting

The Ministry of Rural Development of Cambodia hosted a preparatory meeting on September 3, 2026, for the upcoming "3rd National Sanitation Forum," a significant step towards improving the nation's sanitation landscape. The meeting was chaired by Minister Chhay Rithisen, with the participation of ministry officials, the Acting Country Director of Plan International Cambodia, and technical advisors on clean water and sanitation. During the session, drafts of various documents for the forum were meticulously reviewed. Crucial input was provided by the technical working group, which will further enhance the quality of the preparatory materials. Minister Chhay Rithisen emphasized the Ministry of Rural Development's active role as a key arm of the government, contributing significantly to improving the living conditions of rural populations through the provision of clean water supply and the promotion of sanitation in rural areas. He particularly highlighted the historic achievement of reaching Open Defecation Free (ODF) status across all 25 provinces and cities in Cambodia. In conjunction with celebrating this nationwide ODF milestone, the 3rd National Sanitation Forum is scheduled to be held around the National Rural Sanitation Promotion Day on November 13. This forum is expected to be an opportunity to accelerate further progress in the sanitation sector and contribute to achieving Cambodia's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Source: AKP Khmer