Phnom penh: Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has reaffirmed that promoting rural sanitation remains a key priority of the Royal Government of Cambodia. In a message marking the 16th National Rural Sanitation Day to be celebrated on Nov. 13, the Premier underlined the emphasis on advancing rural development by improving living conditions and expanding rural water supply and sanitation services to achieve full coverage by 2030.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the first phase of the Pentagonal Strategy and the political programme of the Royal Government of the 7th legislature of the National Assembly (2023-2028) stress the importance of these initiatives. Samdech Thipadei highlighted the progress in access to rural sanitation services, noting that all 25 capital and provincial administrations, covering 14,576 villages, 1,652 communes, 163 districts, 33 cities, and 14 khans, have achieved Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, marking a historic milestone for Cambodia.
He mentioned that rural sanitation coverage has increased from 90 percent in 2024 to 95 percent in 2025, with expectations to reach full coverage by 2030. This progress reflects the collective efforts of the Royal Government, relevant institutions, and citizens in promoting rural sanitation according to established policies, strategies, and action plans.
Samdech Thipadei expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Rural Development, relevant ministries and institutions, development partners, non-governmental organisations, and citizens for their active participation in promoting rural sanitation. He encouraged ongoing collaboration and commitment to improve sanitation conditions and achieve the Royal Government's development goals.