AKP Phnom Penh, August 18, 2025 -- Rattanakiri province has become the 23rd province of Cambodia to achieve an open defecation free (ODF) status, with the Minister of Rural Development presiding over its official recognition.

At the event on Aug. 18, the province’s Acting Provincial Governor H.E. Lun Sopheap updated Minister of Rural Development H.E. Chhay Rithsen on sanitation and water supply achievements and milestones of the province in freeing itself from open defecation.

According to H.E. Lun Sopheap, 89.5 percent of the total 21,512 households in Rattanakiri province are using private toilets, while 10.5 percent are using shared toilets.

H.E. Chhay Rithsen was impressed by the progress that contributes essentially to the improved standard of living of the locals, particularly their behaviour change in using latrines and drinking clean water for a healthy lifestyle.

According to the Minister, Cambodia has by far achieved a nationwide water and hygiene coverage rate of nearly 92 percent and rural sanitation of about 95 percent.

The country is determined to reach 100 percent of clean water access and essential sanitation practice by 2030, he added.

By Phal Sophanith