Phnom Penh - In a commitment to support grassroots development in Cambodia, the Government of Japan has pledged a total of US$348,919 for three essential projects under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects, known as the "KUSANONE" Grant. The signing ceremony for the Grant Contracts took place today, with H.E. Mr. UENO Atsushi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Kingdom of Cambodia, officiating the event.

The allocated funds will be distributed among three recipient organizations, each spearheading a project aimed at addressing specific community needs.

The Project for Construction of Sre Ken Primary School Building in Aoral District, Kampong Speu Province (US$92,425)

Recipient: Kampong Speu Provincial Department of Education, Youth and Sport

The initiative focuses on constructing a five-room school building with accompanying school furniture, a three-room toilet, and a handwashing facility at Sre Ken Primary School in Kampong Speu Province. The project targets the improvement of the learning environment for approximately 149 students and 4 teachers.

The Project for Construction of Russei Douch Primary School Building in Prasat Balang District, Kampong Thom Province (US$100,344)

Recipient: Kampong Thom Provincial Department of Education, Youth and Sport

This project aims to construct a six-room school building, furnish it with necessary equipment, and provide a handwashing facility at Russei Douch Primary School in Kampong Thom Province. It is anticipated to enhance the educational experience for around 162 students and 8 teachers.

The Project for Installation of Water Supply System in Senmonorom District, Mondulkiri Province (US$156,150)

Recipient: Mondulkiri Water Utility

Focusing on the improvement of living standards, this project involves the construction of a water supply system and the installation of approximately 26km water distribution networks in Senmonorom City, Mondulkiri Province. The endeavor is expected to benefit more than 2,500 people by providing access to clean water and sanitation facilities.

Ambassador UENO Atsushi, during his speech at the ceremony, highlighted Japan's long-standing commitment to supporting Cambodia's grassroots development. He emphasized the significance of the KUSANONE projects, which have been contributing to improving the quality of life for Cambodian people at the grassroots level since 1991.

Expressing optimism about Cambodia's rapid development, Ambassador UENO acknowledged the existing challenges and reaffirmed Japan's commitment to addressing them through various official development aid schemes, including KUSANONE.

The ceremony concluded with Ambassador UENO extending his wishes for the continued health and happiness of all attendees, fostering the friendship between Japan and Cambodia.