The Japanese government has provided over $440,000 in grants for new projects in three provinces: a water reservoir in Takeo and new bridges in Kampong Thom and Siem Reap.

The aid was supplied through the Official Development Assistance (ODA) programme for small-scale human security projects (Kusanone).

Japanese ambassador to Cambodia Ueno Atsushi hosted a January 30 signing ceremony to officially announce the funding.

The first project, the restoration of a water reservoir system in Takeo Province, will cost over $18,000. The work will be implemented by the provincial Department of Water Resources and Meteorology and is expected to benefit about 3,000 local residents, by ensuring a year-round water supply for agriculture.

The second project is the construction of a new concrete bridge in Chhouk village, in Kampong Thom province’s Prasat Sambor district. The more than $154,000 project will be constructed by the provincial Department of Public Works and Transport. It will provide safer transportation infrastructure to more than 10,000 people.

The third project is also a concrete bridge. It will replace a wooden bridge in Khvav village, in Siem Reap’s Chikraeng district. The bridge is an important artery and provides access to schools, workplaces and hospitals, as well as markets for agricultural products. It is estimated that its construction will benefit around 15,000.

Kusanone has been provided support for projects in Cambodia since 1991. To date, Japan has provided over $70 million for 694 projects, some implemented by the government and some by non-governmental organisations.

“I am pleased to observe the rapid development of Cambodia in recent years. However, I also recognise that there are still many challenges that Japan can help address to improve the quality of life for the people. Japan will continue to contribute to solving these challenges through various official development assistance programs, including Kusanone assistance,” said Ueno.