The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved $93.6 million in loans and grants to enhance water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services in Cambodia’s rural areas, aiming to benefit 88,000 households across nine provinces. The project will improve access to clean water and sanitation while promoting private sector participation in service delivery.

Despite this initiative, private water suppliers expressed concerns, noting they had previously received little support and had to rely on personal investments. However, many welcomed the ADB’s focus on improving water supply systems and infrastructure, hoping for greater collaboration with private stakeholders in the sector.

The ADB program will also address climate resilience and affordability, while supporting sustainable management practices. The Ministry of Rural Development confirmed its role in implementing three key projects focused on expanding water supply, improving sanitation, and strengthening institutional capacity for climate-resilient services.