Pailin (FN), Feb. 18 – Cambodian Minister of Rural Development Chhay Rithisen presided over the ceremony recognising Pailin province as the 16th province to achieve Open Defecation Free (ODF) status. The event was attended by approximately 1,430 participants on Tuesday (Feb. 18) at the Pailin Provincial Police Headquarters.
Ban Sreymom, Governor of Pailin Province, informed attendees that Pailin is home to 18,113 households and 74 villages with access to a clean water network, covering 79.5 per cent of the province. All 18,113 households now have toilets, achieving 100 per cent coverage. This includes 17,144 households with private toilets (95 per cent) and 969 households with shared toilets (5 per cent). In terms of urban and rural achievements, 2 cities (100 per cent), all 8 communes (100 per cent), and 60 out of 93 villages (61 per cent) are now ODF-certified. Additionally, 38 villages (39 per cent) have achieved ODF Plus status.
The provincial governor also highlighted Pailin’s progress in rural development, which includes infrastructure improvements in rural roads, the creation of employment and business opportunities, and the provision of clean water, health education, and sanitation services. These initiatives aim to enhance public health and hygiene in line with the Royal Government’s vision.
The deputy country director of Plan International Cambodia emphasised the organisation’s efforts, alongside other development partners, in supporting the Royal Government’s objectives. This partnership has played a key role in Pailin’s achievement of ODF status through water supply and sanitation projects, which are fundamental in helping to eliminate poverty in the province.
Minister Chhay Rithisen expressed his admiration for Pailin’s significant achievements in various sectors, including security, economy, society, and culture. He specifically commended the improvement in living standards, which have been driven by increased access to clean water and sanitation services. He also congratulated the province for ending open defecation and encouraged continued participation from provincial authorities and all relevant parties to maintain ODF status and work towards achieving ODF Plus.
The minister acknowledged that these achievements were made possible due to the peace and security established through the sacrifices and efforts of the nation’s leadership. He credited Samdech Techo Hun Sen, the founder of the win-win policy, and the visionary leadership of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet for their contributions to national unity and peace.
Minister Chhay Rithisen also noted that the Ministry of Rural Development is committed to implementing the National Action Plan on Water Supply, Sanitation, and Rural Sanitation, which has already reached a nationwide water and sanitation coverage rate of approximately 88.8 per cent. This includes a water coverage rate of 86.09 per cent and a sanitation rate of 91.47 per cent. The Ministry aims to ensure that by 2030, all citizens will have access to sufficient clean water, 100 per cent sanitation, and live in a sustainable environment.
As of today, 16 capital cities and provinces have achieved the status of Open Defecation-Free (ODF and ODF Plus). These include: Phnom Penh, Svay Rieng, Prey Veng, Kandal, Kampong Speu, Kampong Chhnang, Kep, Sihanoukville, Kampong Cham, Ratanakiri, Siem Reap, Tbong Khmum, Takeo, Stung Treng, Kampong Thom, and Pailin.
=FRESH NEWS
