Canberra, 20 April 2023 (TDI): Australia has committed to supporting Cambodia in achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
The Australian Embassy in Cambodia underscored the commitment in a news statement released on April 19.
Through the Australian NGO Cooperation Programme, the Australian Government is presently financing two WaterAid projects worth around AU$ 500,000.
“Access to safe drinking water and sanitation is critical to meeting development needs.” It supports most elements of healthy individuals, vibrant communities, and economic success,” the source stated.
Recently, members from the Ministry of Rural Development and WaterAid were honored for their work in improving water, sanitation, and hygiene.
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Australian government has pledged AUD 20 million (approx. USD 14.4 million) worth of assistance to help Cambodia achieve SDG 6 by 2030.
The assistance package will focus on improving water and sanitation infrastructure, strengthening water resource management practices, and enhancing the capacity of local communities, especially those in drought-affected areas.
The aim is to ensure that vulnerable communities in Cambodia have access to safe and sufficient water for sanitation and household use.
In particular, Australian aid will support water infrastructure projects, including the construction of wells, boreholes, and rainwater harvesting systems to meet the needs of local communities.
The program also includes support for the implementation of sustainable water resources management practices, such as improved governance models and equitable allocation arrangements.
To ensure the program is sustainable, it will focus on building the capacity of local communities, government agencies, and stakeholders to manage and maintain water and sanitation systems effectively.
It will also prioritize the involvement of women in decision-making processes, as women are typically the primary users and managers of water resources in rural communities.
In addition to the direct benefits of improved access to water and sanitation, the program will also have wider economic and social benefits for Cambodia.
Access to safe and sufficient water will improve public health and reduce poverty by freeing up resources that would otherwise be spent on healthcare, and increasing opportunities for income-generating activities.
Australia’s assistance will help Cambodia to achieve SDG 6 by improving water and sanitation infrastructure, promoting sustainable water resource management practices, and empowering local communities to manage their water resources effectively.
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