Samantha Power’s recent visit to Wat Svay Thom, Siem Reap, marked the first time a USAID Administrator had visited Cambodia. Her trip underscored the United States’ ongoing commitment to improving public health in Cambodia.
During her remarks, she announced a new $4 million investment for COMMIT II, a five-year initiative aimed at further reducing tuberculosis cases in the country.
Cambodia has made impressive strides, cutting TB rates in half over the past two decades, but significant challenges remain—54,000 new cases are still reported annually, with a third going undetected.
Power emphasized the importance of working directly with local communities, saying, “We think it’s extremely important to invest directly in Cambodian organizations.”
This strategy focuses on improving TB screening and prevention, with particular attention to undiagnosed cases, a critical factor in halting the spread of the disease.
A History of Success: Malaria and Maternal Health
In addition to the fight against TB, Power highlighted USAID’s achievements in combating malaria in Cambodia. Over the last decade, the U.S. has invested $87 million in the country’s malaria elimination efforts.
This support has contributed to Cambodia reaching zero malaria deaths since 2017, and the country is now on track to eliminate the disease entirely by 2025. This accomplishment is part of a broader focus on improving maternal and child health.
Since 2005, USAID’s contributions have helped reduce maternal deaths by 67% and deaths of children under five by 81%.
The scope of USAID’s involvement extends beyond immediate healthcare concerns.
As Power noted,
“The partnership between the U.S. and Cambodia in the health sector has been a foundation for wider cooperation, including economic and social development.”
New Threat: Lead Poisoning
While Cambodia has made significant progress in combating communicable diseases, Power pointed out a less visible but urgent health crisis—lead poisoning. Over 70% of Cambodian children suffer from lead exposure, with potentially devastating long-term effects on brain development and overall health.
Power announced USAID’s support for Cambodia’s first-ever national survey on lead levels in children and pregnant women. This initiative aims to determine the sources of lead contamination, whether from spices, paint, or recycled materials, and to develop policies that will prevent future exposure.
This initiative is part of a broader commitment to addressing environmental health threats through partnerships with local governments and organizations like UNICEF. The survey, set to be completed in the coming year, will provide critical data for addressing this silent epidemic.
USAID’s Continued Commitment to Cambodia
The ongoing partnership between USAID and Cambodia is not just about funding—it is about collaboration and long-term impact.
By working alongside Cambodian communities and healthcare providers, the U.S. aims to strengthen Cambodia’s public health infrastructure, ensuring that progress against diseases like TB and malaria continues, while also addressing emerging threats like lead poisoning.
Program Highlights:
- COMMIT II: $4 million for improved tuberculosis screening and treatment
- Cambodia’s first-ever national lead poisoning survey
USAID’s initiatives in Cambodia reflect a broader U.S. strategy to support health security and sustainable development in Southeast Asia.
As Samantha Power’s visit made clear, the U.S. is committed to empowering local organizations and improving the lives of Cambodian citizens through targeted, impactful programs.
