Cambodia Launches UN-Backed Clean Water Drive

Kiripost

Cambodia has unveiled a new programme to expand access to climate-resilient water services, targeting communities most vulnerable to droughts, floods and poor infrastructure. The Water Infrastructure & Smart Energy Joint Programme (WISE JP), launched Monday with support from UNICEF and the UN Capital Development Fund, aims to modernise the country’s water supply sector while advancing its climate commitments.

At the heart of the initiative is a blended-finance model that combines concessional and commercial capital to lower borrowing costs for private water operators. By easing access to affordable finance, the scheme is expected to accelerate investment in renewable-powered water systems and digital management technologies. Officials say the programme could improve services for more than 200,000 people nationwide.

Science minister Hem Vanndy described WISE JP as a milestone in Cambodia’s efforts to modernise water infrastructure. “Private water operators play a vital role in serving our people, particularly in areas not reached by public utilities. Yet they continue facing challenges accessing affordable finance,” he said.

The programme comes at a critical time: an estimated 1.9 million Cambodian children live in areas facing high climate risks and inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene services.

UN resident coordinator Vladanka Andreeva stressed the importance of climate-resilient water access for family well-being and children’s health. “Through the WISE JP, Cambodia is taking a bold step to ensure that children and families — especially those in hard-to-reach areas — benefit from affordable and sustainable clean water powered by renewable energy,” she said.

Beyond financing, the initiative will provide technical support to water operators, banks and the Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia, helping reduce investment risks and strengthen capacity. It also aligns with Cambodia’s National Strategic Development Plan and its climate pledges under the Paris Agreement.

Development partners hope the model can be replicated across other sectors, as Cambodia faces mounting pressure to adapt to climate change while sustaining economic growth. For now, WISE JP represents a significant step toward ensuring clean water access and resilience for the country’s most vulnerable communities.

-2026-03-24