Transforming Lives with Clean Water

Ms. Oun Srey Mom shared the experience that she had to pay around 48,000 riel per month for water from private vendors. After her households  connected to state-runing water supply , their monthly water bill dropped to just 6,000 riels. Not different from Aun Mom's family, other community members also mentioned reducing monthly water costs through cheaper water by connecting to the Phnom Penh Water Supply Authority. The money saved has allowed families to allocate their limited resources to other essential needs, improving their overall living standards.

Ms. Oun Srey Mom, community representative said: “Previoulsy, we bought water from private vendors at 2,000 riel per jar, needing about 24 jars per month, which cost us 48,000 riels. Now, with the Phnom Penh water supply, our monthly bill is only 6,000 riels for our family of three members. This has made a huge difference in our lives."

Community Member of Chma Aeot Washing vegetables with clean water

This project demonstrates how access to clean water is not just about sanitation; it is a steppingstone toward economic relief, improved health, and a better quality of life. STT’s initiative has empowered the Chma Aeot community, proving that small interventions can create a lasting impact.

Chma Aeot Community is one of urban poor communities, located in Sangkat Prek Thmey, Khan Chbar Ampov, Phnom Penh, has long struggled with poor living conditions. The community lacks essential infrastructure, including land titles, a proper sewage system, well-maintained roads, and solar-powered streetlights. Among these challenges, access to clean and affordable water remained one of the most pressing issues.

Due to financial constraints, many families in Chma Aeot could not afford to connect to the Phnom Penh Water Supply Authority. Instead, they relied on private water vendors who charged high prices for low-quality water, placing an additional financial burden on already struggling households.

Recognizing this urgent need, Sahmakum Teang Tnaut Organization (STT) stepped in to support the community by funding water connections, coordinating with Phnom Penh Water Supply, ensuring that families could access clean and affordable water. This initiative not only improved sanitation but also significantly reduced household expenses.