India Donates Over US$400K to Clear More Than 1 Million Square Metres of Landmines in Koh Kong

• 1 September 2023
• Local News
• 968 Views

In a generous display of solidarity, the Government of the Republic of India has extended a helping hand to Cambodia, offering crucial assistance amounting to US$426,709 for demining efforts across four districts in Koh Kong province. The commitment was enshrined during the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the “All Mine Village Project in Koh Kong Province” on 31 August 2023.

Signed by HE Dr. Ly Thuch, First Deputy Minister of the Mines Authority, and HE Devyani Khobragade, Ambassador of India to Cambodia, this MoU marks the fruition of India’s support through the Rapid Response Project, executed in close partnership with Cambodia’s Mine Action Authority (CMAA).

With this substantial financial backing, CMAA is geared up to execute a meticulously planned demining campaign across Botum Sakor, Sre Ambel, Thmar Bang, and Koh Kong districts, spanning a sprawling area of 1,972,091 square meters, equivalent to 33 minefields. The funding is expected to pave the way for transforming these four districts fostering the safety and security of 20,319 families, encompassing a population of 86,367 individuals.

HE Dr. Ly Thuch highlighted that this momentous initiative would not only make these regions safe for habitation and investment but would also bolster Koh Kong’s appeal to tourists seeking to explore the province’s pristine natural landscapes. The reverberating impact is expected to usher in a better quality of life for the province’s inhabitants.

• Investment and Funding