Assisting Cambodia’s Journey Towards a Safer Future
In a significant development, the Indian embassy and the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) have joined hands to support a vital mine clearing project in Koh Kong province. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed on August 31, approving generous funding of $425,000 for this crucial initiative.
The signing ceremony, dedicated to the ‘Mine Free Villages in Koh Kong Province,’ was held in Koh Kong and witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries such as Ly Thuch, senior minister and first vice-president of CMAA, Indian ambassador Devyani Khobragade, and Koh Kong provincial governor Phouthong Mithona, along with other senior officials.
The project, backed by the Indian government, will focus on clearing mines in Botum Sakor, Sre Ambel, Thma Bang, and Koh Kong districts, covering a total land area of 1,972,091 square meters. With a total budget of $426,709, this initiative aims to transform these four districts into mine-free zones, benefiting the lives of more than 85,000 individuals belonging to over 20,000 families.
Beyond the restoration of safety, the demining efforts in Koh Kong are set to facilitate increased investment in the province and ensure the security of tourists visiting its natural attractions. By prioritising mine and explosive remnants of war (ERW) clearance, this collaborative project underscores Cambodia’s commitment to improving the living conditions of its people.
Prime Minister Hun Manet has emphasised his dedication to this cause, which he inherited from his predecessor, former Prime Minister Hun Sen. The support received from the Prime Minister further highlights the significance of this mission.
India has been an active participant in Cambodia’s mine clearing efforts, having previously provided financial assistance for similar projects in Koh Kong’s Botum Sakor district. Additionally, India has extended its support to 550 individuals in Banteay Meanchey province through the provision of prosthetic limbs, helping them overcome disabilities resulting from landmines and ERWs.
The tireless work of the CMAA has yielded promising results. In the first half of this year alone, a staggering 215 square kilometres were cleared, uncovering and safely disposing of 12,296 anti-personnel mines, 87 anti-tank mines, and 31,307 unexploded ordnances. These statistics exemplify the dedication and effectiveness of the demining efforts undertaken in Cambodia.
Looking forward, the CMAA aims to declare Kampong Speu, Kratie, Kampong Thom, Siem Reap, Mondulkiri, and Ratanakkiri provinces as mine-free zones, aligning with their ambitious goals for this year.
The commitment showcased by both the Indian embassy and the CMAA, along with their unwavering determination to make Cambodia a safer place, merits applause. By fostering collaboration and implementing strategic initiatives, we can pave the way for a brighter and more secure future for Cambodia and its people.
