PHNOM PENH: The Government of Japan will provide US$209,197 in total to support a bridge construction in Kampong Thom province and to strengthen the poultry value chain in Kampong Chhnang and Siem Reap provinces, under the framework, of the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (“KUSANONE” Grant).
Of the total amount, US$100,394 will be given to Kampong Thom Provincial Department of Public Works and Transport for the Project for Construction of a Bridge in Kaul commune, Prasat Sambo district, Kampong Thom province, pointed out a press release from the Embassy of Japan in Phnom Penh.
It is expected to benefit over 13,000 residents by allowing the transportation of agricultural products as well as daily commutes of students and inhabitants to the nearest school, market, and health center throughout the year, said the same source, adding that this project aims to contribute to improving the residents’ standard of living in addition to the increased agricultural incomes of households.
At the same time, it continued, Heifer International Cambodia will receive the rest, US$108,8032, to strengthen the poultry farming value chain in Kampong Chhnang and Siem Reap provinces.
According to the press release, in this project, poultry facilities with equipment will be installed and renovated for 17 poultry farmers in Kampong Chhnang and Siem Reap. These direct beneficiaries will also receive technical assistance from Heifer International Cambodia and agricultural cooperatives.
Acquired skills and knowledge will be passed on to other agricultural cooperative members, and part of the revenues generated in this project will be spent to build more poultry facilities. As a result, a total of 56 agricultural cooperative members in Kampong Chhnang and 227 in Siem Reap will be equipped with techniques for safe and efficient poultry farming, hygiene practices as well as management skills.
The Grant Contracts were signed here on Mar. 14 between the Japanese Ambassador to Cambodia H.E. UENO Atsushi, and the representatives of the two recipient organizations.
Japan’s “KUSANONE” Projects started in Cambodia in 1991 to support Cambodia’s reconstruction and development at the grassroots level. The assistance aims to protect those vulnerable due to various factors such as poverty and misfortunes that directly threaten their lives, livelihood, and dignity, as well as promote self-reliance in local communities. Since 1991, the Government of Japan has provided over US$66 million for mainly local authorities and non-governmental organizations to implement 705 KUSANONE projects throughout Cambodia.