Did you know that over 3.5 billion people still lack safely managed sanitation, including 418 million individuals who practiced open defecation? This alarming statistic was revealed in a 2022 report jointly published by WHO/UNICEF. This crisis not only impacts the health and well-being of individuals but also has far-reaching consequences for communities and the environment as a whole. In this article, we will explore the pressing need for action to tackling the urgent sanitation needs of one FH Cambodia Area Program through a collaborative effort from governments, local organizations, and non-governmental organizations. Introduction
Kouk Mon commune, like many rural areas in Cambodia, faced significant challenges in terms of limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities which is one part of created obstacles for the community’s growth and development.
However, through a joint effort by FH Cambodia, Community-based Integrated Development Orgnization (CIDO), and Provincial Department of Rural Development (PDRD), these challenges were addressed, leading to significant achievements for Open Defecation Free (ODF) status in Kouk Mon Commune through FH Collaboration with CIDO organization and the PDRDs in Banteay Ampil District, Oddar Meanchey Province.
In particular, clean water and sanitation facilities were implemented in the commune. Previously, the community had to rely on contaminated water sources, leading to waterborne diseases. The provision of clean water has not only improved the health and well-being of the residents but has also allowed them to engage in income-generating activities with ease. The Collaboration Begins
Recognizing the urgent need to address the issue, FH partnered with CIDO, a local organization with a proven track record in community development, as well as PDRD in Kouk Mon Commune, Banteay Ampil District, Oddar Meanchey Province. Together, we initiated a comprehensive program to tackle open defecation in this community. The Community Engagement and Awareness
The success of any development initiative hinges on community engagement. FH and CIDO recognized this and actively involved community members at every stage of the program. Through assessment of the existing situation followed by data on the prevalence of open defecation, understanding community practices, and identifying potential barriers to change, village meetings, awareness campaigns, and door-to-door visits, we sensitized the community about the adverse effects of open defecation and the importance of proper sanitation through developing a tailor-made strategy to promote open defecation-free practices in the community The Achievements in ODF Status
Thanks to a collaborative effort between FH Cambodia, CIDO and PDRD, these communities have successfully achieved their Open Defecation Free (ODF) status. This significant milestone not only highlights the dedication of the community members but also showcases the power of partnerships in creating sustainable change.
On December 27, 2024, a ceremony was held by the Kork Mon Commune Administration and Banteay Ampil District Administration in collaboration with the Department of Rural Development, CIDO, FH Cambodia. The main objective of this ceremony was to distribute certificates to the Kork Mon Commune and its 18 villages, acknowledging their accomplishment of achieving Open Defecation Free status (ODF) in the area. The event was presided over by H.E Huon Manit, the Deputy Governor of Oddar Meanchey Province, and was honored by distinguished local officials, CIDO, and FH Cambodia’s representative, in addition to approximately 260 community members, out of which 110 were women.