Phnom Penh's capital authorities have signed a joint letter of intent with the Interdepartmental Association for Sanitation in the Paris Region (SIAAP) and the International Association of Francophone Mayors (AIMF) to extend their partnership and support the second phase of the capital's septage management project. This agreement follows the successful completion and launch of the first phase in 2023. The signing ceremony was attended by Phnom Penh Governor Khuong Sreng, AIMF Delegate General Frederic Vallier, and SIAAP Director-General Valérie Molet.
The cooperation between Phnom Penh and the French partners began in 2020 with support from the Seine-Normandy Water Agency (AESN). The first phase of the project resulted in the construction of the capital's first septage treatment plant in Kambol district, alongside the development of institutional management structures and regulatory frameworks. The facility was inaugurated in 2023. According to the municipality's Deputy Director of Administration and spokeswoman Dor Samphors, the project's final evaluation report in 2025 highlighted tangible achievements while identifying the need to further expand Phnom Penh's septage treatment capacity.
Building on the results of the first phase and aligning with the municipal administration's strategic plan through 2035, the second phase will involve constructing another treatment plant in Meanchey district and conducting a feasibility study in preparation for a possible third facility. The estimated budget for the second phase is approximately €2.32 million (about $2.56 million), excluding in-kind contributions. Funding is expected to come from the AIMF, AESN, SIAAP, and the Phnom Penh Capital Administration.
The second phase of the septage management project is scheduled to begin after the technical working group completes detailed discussions on the cooperation agreement and participating parties formally sign it in the near future. Once completed, the project is expected to improve sanitation services in Phnom Penh, contributing to a healthier environment for residents. The project's success will also serve as a model for other cities in Cambodia and the region.
The partnership between Phnom Penh and French entities demonstrates the city's commitment to improving its sanitation infrastructure and addressing environmental challenges. The septage management project is a key component of Phnom Penh's efforts to enhance its waste management systems and promote sustainable development. With the support of French partners, Phnom Penh aims to create a more efficient and effective sanitation system.
The International Association of Francophone Mayors (AIMF) and the Interdepartmental Association for Sanitation in the Paris Region (SIAAP) have been instrumental in supporting Phnom Penh's septage management project. Their expertise and resources have been invaluable in helping the city develop its sanitation infrastructure. The continued partnership between Phnom Penh and these French entities will be crucial in ensuring the project's long-term success.
The septage management project is a significant step towards improving Phnom Penh's environmental sustainability and public health. With the second phase of the project underway, the city is expected to make significant progress in addressing its sanitation challenges. Key points of the project include the construction of a new treatment plant in Meanchey district, a feasibility study for a possible third facility, and an estimated budget of €2.32 million for the second phase.
Key points
- Phnom Penh partners with French entities to extend septage management project
- Second phase involves constructing another treatment plant and feasibility study
- Estimated budget for second phase is approximately €2.32 million
