PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – February 4, 2026 – The Government of Japan has announced a significant grant of USD 301,904 to support two vital grassroots human security projects in Cambodia, focusing on agricultural infrastructure and youth empowerment. These initiatives, implemented under Japan’s “KUSANONE” framework, aim to bolster rural development and improve living standards in key provinces.
The grant contracts were officially signed by Ueno Atsushi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Kingdom of Cambodia, alongside representatives from the two recipient organizations. This commitment underscores Japan’s ongoing dedication to Cambodia’s sustainable growth and the well-being of its citizens.
Boosting Agricultural Resilience in Banteay Meanchey
A substantial portion of the grant, USD 220,216, is allocated to the ‘Project for the Rehabilitation of Ou Srolao Chhrom Irrigation Facilities in Banteay Meanchey Province’. This crucial project addresses the challenges faced by local farmers in a drought-prone region.
Strategic Irrigation for Drought-Prone Regions
The rehabilitation efforts will focus on improving the functionality of existing irrigation facilities and constructing an essential sluice gate. Currently, inadequate infrastructure makes it difficult to capture and store sufficient water during the rainy season, leading to water scarcity in the dry months and inefficient distribution to agricultural fields.
Through these improvements, the project is expected to secure a stable supply of agricultural water throughout the year. This will directly benefit over 6,000 local residents, including many families who have returned from Thailand, providing them with enhanced food security and livelihood stability in rural Cambodia.
Empowering Youth Through Education in Mondulkiri
The second project, receiving USD 81,688, is dedicated to the ‘Project for the Construction of a Female Student Dormitory and the Installment of Vocational Training Equipment at Mondulkiri Provincial Training Center’. This initiative aims to address educational disparities and enhance vocational opportunities.
Safe Accommodation and Skill Development
The grant will fund the construction of a new dormitory, providing female students with a safe and comfortable living environment during their studies. Additionally, new vocational training equipment will be installed, offering all students the chance to acquire practical skills highly sought after in the Cambodian job market.
This investment in education and skill development is expected to significantly improve the standard of living for residents in Mondulkiri. By equipping young Cambodians with valuable vocational skills, the project fosters economic independence and contributes to the overall human resource development of the province.
Japan’s Enduring Commitment to Cambodian Development
Japan’s “KUSANONE” Projects commenced in Cambodia in 1991, playing a pivotal role in the nation’s reconstruction and development at the grassroots level. These assistance projects are designed to protect vulnerable populations facing poverty or misfortune, directly threatening their lives, livelihoods, and dignity.
The “KUSANONE” framework also emphasizes fostering self-reliance within local communities. Since its inception, the Government of Japan has channeled over USD 72 million into more than 700 KUSANONE projects across Cambodia, primarily supporting local authorities and non-governmental organizations. These latest grants reaffirm Japan’s steadfast partnership in building a more resilient and prosperous Cambodia.
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