Pursat: Pursat province has become the 24th province of Cambodia to achieve an open defecation free (ODF) status, with the Ministry of Rural Development presiding over its official recognition. At the event on Aug. 25, the province's Deputy Provincial Governor H.E. Pov Piseth 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 Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Pov Piseth reported that 94 percent of the households in Pursat province are using private toilets, while 6 percent are using shared toilets. H.E. Chhay Rithsen noted the progress that contributes 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.