Phnom penh: The Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), in collaboration with World Vision International (WVI) in Cambodia, has launched the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Business Plan 2026-2030.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the launching ceremony was held under the presidency of H.E. Chhay Rithisen, Minister of Rural Development, and Mr. Janes Imanuel Ginting, Country Director of WVI Cambodia. The event aimed to mobilize support for the Clean Water and Sanitation Plan (2026-2030) under the theme ‘Mapping the Blue Thread’; to disseminate new initiatives in the WASH Business Plan 2026-2030 to government institutions, ministries, development partners, and stakeholders; and to promote a shared vision and coordinated action in implementing clean water and sanitation programs across Cambodia.

H.E. Chhay Rithisen outlined the Royal Government’s Pentagonal Strategy and vision under the continued leadership of Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia. He elaborated on rural development policy with the vision: ‘Building Cambodia’s rural society to be prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable across economic, social, and cultural aspects.’

The Minister emphasized that Phase 1 of the Pentagonal Strategy and the policy program of the Royal Government’s 7th Legislature for nation-building and protection (2023-2028) set the goal of expanding rural clean water supply and sanitation coverage to 100 percent by 2030, in alignment with Cambodia’s Sustainable Development Goals (CSDGs). He noted that the Ministry of Rural Development has prepared and successfully implemented two phases of the National Action Plan on rural clean water supply and sanitation, raising overall rural WASH service access to 92 percent, including 89 percent for basic clean water supply and 95 percent for basic rural sanitation. Furthermore, all 25 capitals and provinces nationwide have achieved Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, marking another milestone for Cambodia.

WVI Country Director Mr. Janes Imanuel Ginting highlighted progress achieved through cooperation with the MRD on rural clean water supply and sanitation, including construction of community water distribution systems and training of water management committees. He also mentioned contributions to emergency responses during droughts and floods, and support for clean water and sanitation services for displaced populations.