JICA funds US$167 M to Advance Rural Connectivity with Over 500km Road Improvement Project

• 5 May 2023
• Local News
• 2077 Views

The Government of Japan, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is poised to inject US$167 million into funding projects aimed at enhancing the quality of over 500 kilometers of rural roads across four targeted provinces in northwestern Cambodia. The plans were unveiled by HE Ouk Rabun, Minister of Rural Development, and Mr. Sanui Kazumasa, the newly appointed President of JICA in Cambodia, on 3 May 2023.

The upcoming project, bolstered by financial support from the Government of Japan through JICA, will primarily focus on upgrading existing red gravel roads to a total of 529 kilometers of DBST paved roads and an additional 70 kilometers of concrete paved roads. The Minister of Rural Development emphasized the importance of these improvements in ensuring enhanced connectivity for rural communities.

The rural road improvement initiative is set to cover the provinces of Kampong Chhnang, Pursat, Battambang, and Banteay Meanchey, with an estimated budget of US$167 million allocated under the auspices of the Ministry of Rural Development. These substantial investments in road infrastructure will greatly benefit the local population and facilitate socio-economic growth in the region.

Mr. Sanui Kazumasa, the newly appointed JICA Country Director, expressed the agency’s commitment to the project by confirming that JICA is currently reviewing the application for a Technical Advisor. This advisor will play a pivotal role in facilitating seamless collaboration between the Ministry of Rural Development and JICA, fostering a productive partnership that will bring about significant improvements to Cambodia’s rural road network.

The substantial funding from JICA serves as a testament to the organization’s dedication to enhancing rural connectivity and fostering sustainable development in Cambodia. The transformative road improvement project is poised to uplift local communities, stimulate economic growth, and improve access to vital services for the benefit of all citizens.

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• Investment and Funding
• Road and Infrastructure