Prey Veng Province Becomes Third to Achieve High-Level ODF+ Status in Cambodia

Prey Veng Province in Cambodia has achieved a significant milestone in rural public health, officially receiving the 'ODF+ (Open Defecation Free Plus)' designation, signifying a high level of sanitation. This marks the third province in Cambodia to attain this advanced status. The official ceremony, held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, was presided over by H.E. Chhay RithySeng, Minister of Rural Development. The event saw the participation of approximately 1,370 individuals, including senior ministry officials, provincial leaders, representatives from international development partners, and local residents. During the ceremony, H.E. Suon Somalin, Governor of Prey Veng Province, delivered a welcome report highlighting the province's general geography, public security, and overall public services, with a particular emphasis on the increased access to safe water and rural sanitation for its citizens. Mr. Yi Kimthan, Acting Country Director of Plan International Cambodia, also delivered remarks, affirming that Prey Veng's achievement reflects Cambodia's robust progress towards its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 6 concerning water and sanitation for all. H.E. Chhay RithySeng expressed his admiration and high evaluation of Prey Veng's development. He congratulated the province on its achievements across various sectors, including security, order, economy, society, and culture. He specifically noted the improvements in living conditions through enhanced safe water supply and sanitation services, the adoption of safe water consumption habits for health, proper use of latrines, and the promotion of civilized living practices, which led to the ODF+ recognition. The Minister further elaborated on the Ministry of Rural Development's efforts in implementing the National Rural Development Policy 2025-2035, which envisions building a prosperous, inclusive, equitable, and sustainable rural Cambodian society. Key strategies include developing resilient rural transportation infrastructure, improving living conditions for rural populations, fostering resilient and inclusive mixed rural villages and communities, diversifying rural economies, and strengthening governance and cooperation. Regarding the improvement of living conditions in rural areas, the Minister stated that the coverage rate of basic safe water supply has reached 89%, with safely managed water supply at 25%. Rural sanitation coverage is at 95%, with safely managed sanitation at 51%. He added that all 25 provinces and the capital city nationwide have achieved Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, with Phnom Penh, Kandal Province, and now Prey Veng Province achieving the high-level ODF+ status, representing further historical achievements by the Royal Government. In conclusion, H.E. Chhay RithySeng appealed to all stakeholders to continue their excellent cooperation to further enhance rural sanitation, adhering to four core principles: inclusivity, quality, sustainability, and innovation. This endeavor aims to contribute to the development of rural Cambodia and achieve the vision of Cambodia becoming a high-income country by 2050, in line with the first phase of the Royal Government's Pentagonal Strategy under the wise leadership of H.E. Dr. Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Copyright: Sutly