France & EU Committed to Enhancing Cambodia’s Water Sector

• 11 June 2025
• Local News
• 1607 Views

France and the European Union have reaffirmed their dedication to supporting the development of Cambodia’s water sector, with France planning to allocate a substantial €275 million in funding for the years 2025 to 2027. This commitment was announced by Ms. Sandrine Boucher, the Country Director of the French Development Agency (AFD), during a meeting with the Cambodian Minister of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation, HE Hem Vandy.

During the discussion, Ms. Boucher highlighted that nearly 70% of the budget will be directed towards initiatives in the water sector. In an effort to empower the private sector, AFD is collaborating with commercial banks to establish a new credit package via PROPARCO, aimed at providing financial support to private water operators. This initiative is crucial as these operators play an essential role in delivering clean water services to rural communities.

Minister Hem Vandy emphasised the importance of collaboration between the ministry’s technical team and PROPARCO to ensure reasonable financing rates for private operators. He noted their vital contribution to improving water access for Cambodians in need.

Additionally, representatives from the European Union voiced their strong support for necessary reforms within Cambodia’s water sector. Koen Everaert, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Cambodia, reiterated that water, energy, and education are priority areas under the EU’s Global Gateway programme in Cambodia.

In response to the discussions, Minister Vandy urged the EU to consider funding for innovative research in the water sector. He mentioned that advancements in artificial intelligence could significantly enhance efficiency through innovations such as leak detection, energy-saving pump automation, and the efficient monitoring of water usage patterns, in addition to recycling water from industrial sources.

Aside from funding and innovation discussions, both parties deliberated on the need to update laws and strengthen the institutional framework for water operators. They also underscored the importance of implementing training programs in partnership with the Institute of Technology of Cambodia, leveraging the expertise of the Phnom Penh Autonomous Water Supply Authority to cultivate human resources in this vital sector.

This collaborative effort promises to bring transformative changes to Cambodia’s water landscape, ensuring better access to clean water for all citizens.

• Cooperation and networking
• water treatment
• water infrastructure