ADB Backed Rural Water and Roads Projects Improve Livelihoods in Kampong Speu

KAMPONG SPEU, Feb 17, 2026 (KPT) – Rural communities in Cambodia’s Kampong Speu province are seeing improved access to clean water and transport infrastructure through projects supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the government, officials said Tuesday.

Minister of Rural Development Chhay Rithisen and ADB Country Director Yasmin Siddiqi visited the province on Monday to review progress under the Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene Improvement Program.

The delegation inspected electric powered, hand pump and solar wells, as well as water jar production sites. They also assessed a community pond requiring rehabilitation to strengthen water security during the dry season.

The team reviewed an 11.1 kilometre DBST and concrete road built under the Rural Roads Improvement Project Phase II, connecting National Road No. 4 to Phnom Sruoch district. Officials said the road directly benefits more than 6,000 residents and indirectly serves nearly 12,000 more.

A 12 metre steel bridge completed in 2025 was also inspected, linking villages across Kampong Speu and Takeo provinces. Authorities said the integrated approach – combining water, sanitation, roads and connectivity – aims to enhance rural livelihoods, strengthen climate resilience and promote inclusive economic growth.