ARDB, Microfinance Sector and Water.org Eye Green Finance Partnership

PHNOM PENH, Feb 18, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia is stepping up efforts to expand green financing and financial inclusion, as the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank (ARDB) moves to collaborate with the Cambodia Microfinance Association (CMA) and Water.org to accelerate climate focused investment in rural areas.

At a meeting at ARDB headquarters on Wednesday, Chief Executive Officer Dr. Kao Thach highlighted the critical role of water in sustaining agriculture and rural livelihoods, stressing that reliable access is fundamental to food security, income generation and climate resilience.

He underscored the strong linkage between water resources and green financing, noting that investments in infrastructure, sanitation and efficient irrigation are essential to sustainable development.

Thach said Water.org’s programs are highly relevant to climate adaptation and align with ARDB’s long term strategy, particularly through the Cambodia Climate Finance Facility (CCFF).

The CCFF, backed by USD 100 million from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) approved at its Board meeting in Rwanda, aims to support climate mitigation and adaptation through direct lending to green projects and wholesale financing for local institutions.

Potential cooperation includes a memorandum of understanding, a national workshop on financial inclusion and green finance for CMA members, and joint research initiatives.