A New Era for Cambodian Agriculture: Transformation Through Advanced Irrigation
The landscape of Cambodian agriculture is on the cusp of a monumental transformation, driven by a government-led initiative to modernize and expand its irrigation infrastructure. As announced by His Excellency Tho Jetha, Cambodia has already established 2,352 irrigation systems. These systems have become the backbone of Cambodia’s agricultural productivity, irrigating nearly 2 million hectares of fertile land.
Expanding Capacity, Ensuring Safety
Key to this transformation is Cambodia’s strategic efforts to expand irrigation capacity across the nation. The 56 large-scale irrigation systems are complemented by 1,166 medium-scale and 1,122 small-scale systems, alongside 8 significant reservoirs. Together, they ensure water reaches as many farmers as possible. Minister Jetha emphasized an increase in irrigation capacity to cover a total of 1,969,843 hectares, an essential move for achieving sustainable economic growth.
Government Commitment to Sustainable Growth
Minister Jetha reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing the irrigation sector through significant investments. By prioritizing large and small reservoirs and modernizing current systems, Cambodia aims to secure water resources even in the face of climatic unpredictability. As stated in Construction & Property News, these projects are vital components of Cambodia’s broader national development strategy.
A Multi-Faceted Approach for Water Security
On February 17, 2025, Prime Minister Samdech Thibhatei Hun Manet announced a focused investment of USD 60 million to enhance water infrastructure in five key provinces. This funding will improve water access, address local resource shortages, and boost economic resilience in rural regions.
Collaborative Efforts for a Better Future
The Cambodian Economic and Financial Policy Committee has proposed three measures designed to better manage water resources amid increasing demand. These measures align with the national objective to ensure sufficient water for agricultural activities, safeguarding both productivity and community livelihoods.
With these initiatives, Cambodia’s commitment to a sustainable and thriving agricultural future is more robust than ever. This comprehensive strategy not only promises enhanced crop yields and farmer prosperity but also positions Cambodia as a resilient player on the global agricultural stage.
