AFD, EU Continue Support for Cambodia’s Clean Water Sector Reform

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AFD, EU Continue Support for Cambodia’s Clean Water Sector Reform
AFD, EU Continue Support for Cambodia’s Clean Water Sector Reform./Photo: MISTI

The Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI) on October 16, 2025, welcomed a delegation from the French Development Agency (AFD) and the European Union (EU) to review progress and discuss the next steps in strengthening governance, capacity building, and infrastructure development in Cambodia’s clean water sector.

The AFD Appraisal and Supervision Mission presented updates on key projects, including the Bakheng Water Supply Project Phase 3 and the proposed Siem Reap Water Supply expansion, both aimed at improving access to safe and reliable water services.

The mission also explored future cooperation under the Team Europe framework, focusing on sustainable financing and inter-ministerial coordination.

Minister Hem Vanndy noted that Cambodia is developing a regulatory model tailored to its governance system and socio-economic context. “We cannot simply copy models from elsewhere,” he said. “Cambodia must develop its own approach that fits our governance system and local realities. Clean water must become the lifeblood of our economy and public health.”

He also highlighted the importance of a national water supply strategic framework and measures to help new public utilities and private operators strengthen management and service quality. “The next step is to enhance governance and efficiency, and attract more investment so that they can become strong, sustainable institutions,” he added.

AFD Country Director Sandrine Boucher said that AFD continues to work closely with MISTI and other partners on clean water policy, training, and infrastructure projects to expand access nationwide.

As part of human resource development, AFD and the EU will launch the European Global Gateway Scholarships in September 2026, offering the first cohort of 30 Cambodian professionals the opportunity to pursue clean water–related studies in Europe.

All parties agreed to continue working together to guide policy and capacity-building initiatives, supporting Cambodia’s goal of achieving universal access to clean water by 2030 under SDG 6.1.