China’s Poverty Alleviation Project Transforms Cambodian Village
A China-funded poverty alleviation project initiated in 2021 has significantly transformed Tanorn village in Cambodia, enhancing infrastructure and residents’ livelihoods. The project introduced clean water, solar power, and concrete roads, thereby alleviating poverty and modernizing the community. Villagers have expressed gratitude for the improvements and new economic opportunities. The initiative exemplifies the efficacy of international developmental assistance.
In 2021, a significant China-aided poverty alleviation initiative began in Tanorn village, located in the Bati district of Cambodia’s Takeo province, roughly 60 kilometers south of Phnom Penh. This project has revitalized the village, which spans 72 hectares and is home to over 600 residents across 130 households, transitioning it from isolation to modernity.
Before the project commenced, Tanorn village faced severe limitations including a lack of clean water, electricity, educational facilities, and proper health care. The China Foundation for Peace and Development provided funding for this transformative effort, executed by Cambodia’s Civil Society Alliance Forum.
Por Sokhim, a 51-year-old villager, revealed that her family’s standard of living improved remarkably post-implementation. Previously relying solely on rice farming, she now owns a grocery store while her husband operates a motorcycle repair shop. “In the past, it was difficult for us to do business because there were no good roads. All roads were unpaved and dusty,” she explained. The new developments include concrete roads, sewage, solar power, and access to clean water.
Villager Touch Seanghong, aged 57, noted the previous hardships faced due to inadequate transport facilities which constrained access to markets for agricultural products. Thanks to the project, he shared, “the situation is completely changed, as people are not worried about traveling anymore because all roads in the village are concrete-paved.”
The villagers have benefited from various improvements such as solar energy, newly constructed buildings, and clean water. Seanghong expressed gratitude, stating, “We admire Chinese friends for sacrificing both physical and mental energies to help develop our Tanorn village,” reflecting on the positive impact the project has had.
Chea Munyrith, the planning and project director of the Civil Society Alliance Forum, emphasized the project’s role in elevating the village’s standard of living through advancements in health, education, and environmental quality. He remarked that the change in housing, characterized by new concrete homes with high fences, symbolizes a shift towards higher income lifestyles. Furthermore, he asserted that China’s assistance is instrumental in fostering social modernization in Tanorn village, potentially serving as a model for other regions.
The China-aided poverty alleviation project has fundamentally transformed Tanorn village, enhancing the quality of life for its residents through improved infrastructure, health, and livelihood opportunities. This initiative not only showcases the effectiveness of international cooperation but also serves as a model for poverty alleviation efforts globally. The enhanced living conditions and economic prospects reflect the positive impact of external aid combined with local commitment to development.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
