Japan’s Noble Initiative: US$1.3 Million Boost to Cambodian Demining Projects in Two Provinces

• 20 December 2023
• Local News
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In a benevolent gesture, the Government of Japan has extended a generous grant of US$1,390,117 to the Japan Mine Action Organisation (JMAS) in Cambodia, marking a pivotal step towards fostering safety and reconstruction. The signing ceremony for this grant, dedicated to demining initiatives, took place on 19 December 2023.

During the ceremony, HE Ou Nou Atsushi, Ambassador of Japan to Cambodia, expressed the noble intention behind this assistance. He disclosed that a substantial portion, approximately US$700,000 implemented by the Japan Mine Action Organisation (JMAS), has been earmarked for the RSCS project in Stung Treng province.

This initiative is dedicated to the clearance of cluster munitions, spanning an extensive 470 hectares, while concurrently imparting vital demining skills to the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC). The project further extends its impact by providing comprehensive mine risk education to local communities and equipping farmers with advanced agricultural techniques.

In a parallel effort, an additional US$700,000 has been allocated to support the RSDB project in Banteay Meanchey province. This project, now in its third year, focuses on demining and managing unexploded ordnance across 180 hectares. Significantly, the project includes knowledge transfer to CMAC, empowering them with enhanced demining methodologies. The comprehensive approach extends to mine risk education and facilitates farmers in embracing innovative rice cultivation practices, establishing model farms on successfully demined lands.

The Japanese Embassy’s report underscores the longstanding commitment of Japan to Cambodia’s development journey. Since the inception of the Japanese NGO project in 2002, Japan has invested over US$52 million in Cambodia, spanning 154 projects. These initiatives have left an indelible mark on crucial sectors like primary education, health, agriculture, and demining.

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