Water Conference & Exhibition

MISTI / CWA
Fifth Cambodian Water Conference and Exhibition
03-04 December 2024

I-Background

Cambodian Water Supply Association (CWA) is a local professional association with in-depth expertise in the water supply sector spanning both urban and rural areas of Cambodia. For over a decade, CWA has played a pivotal role in supporting and safeguarding the interests of its members who are private water operators (PWOs), operating across the country. Furthermore, it has fostered productive collaborations with relevant ministries, development partners, financial institutions, and service and equipment suppliers. Notably, CWA is recognized as a key player in partnering with the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation of Cambodia (MISTI) to achieve the ambitious goal of providing clean, safe, and affordable water to all Cambodian citizens. The core roles of CWA are (1) to support and promote cooperation among PWOs in Cambodia, (2) to enhance knowledge and technical skills through the dissemination of best practices, and (3) to foster the sustainability expansion of water supply services throughout the country. As of the first semester of 2024, CWA had a total of 329 members of which 285 are licensed PWOs, operating in 23 provinces.

PWOs have been playing an important role in supplying clean and affordable water to people in rural and agglomerated areas of Cambodia. Despite the widespread operation of 432 licensed water utilities across Cambodia, including 418 PWOs, providing over 1.3 million connections and serving more than six million users, around 70 % of villages have access to piped water as of 2024[1]. This leaves over half of villages, particularly those with low population density, underserved due to several factors. Firstly, a lack of awareness among communities about the importance of safe piped water hinders demand and adoption. Secondly, insufficient private capital investment in water infrastructure creates financial barriers, particularly in remote areas. Thirdly, the water sector faces a shortage of skilled personnel, limiting capacity for operation and maintenance of water systems. Finally, the availability of water sources and the influence of climate variability pose significant challenges. Limited surface and groundwater resources, coupled with unpredictable weather patterns, can make it difficult to maintain consistent water supply through piped systems.

CWA has consistently demonstrated its commitment to resolving challenges hindering the expansion of piped water service. Numerous events have been conducted to bring different stakeholders to seat together and implement practical solutions to address critical issues within the water supply sector.

II-About the Cambodian Water Conference and Exhibition

In collaboration with MISTI, CWA proposes co-organizing the 5^th Cambodian Water Conference and Exhibition in 2024. The event will take place on December 03^rd -04^th, 2024, followed by an exclusive technical tour on December 5^th, 2024. The conference will bring together a diverse range of stakeholders to explore innovations, share knowledge, and collaborate towards sustainable water management solutions for Cambodia.

Theme: The theme of the 5^th Cambodian Conference and Exhibition is “Water for a sustainable

future”.

Main Topics:

The proposed event will discuss the following sub-themes and topics:

- - MISTI Operating License Review – findings and opportunities for improvement
  - How to reach Pentagonal Strategy Phase I for the Water Supply Sector
  - Climate Change Resilience and Disaster Response – Australian Water Sector
  - Access to Finance for the Water Sector – successful case studies
  - Cambodian Climate Financing Facility (CCFF)
  - Asset Management & Monitoring – how this can reduce non-revenue water and improve water quality
  - Champion PWOs – Overview of selection process and celebration of winners

Complementing the conference program, a comprehensive parallel exhibition will showcase an array of water-related services and technologies over the two days. This dedicated space provides a valuable platform for service providers and suppliers to engage with potential clients during the conference. Through interactive displays and presentations, exhibitors can share expertise, demonstrate cutting-edge innovations in the piped water supply sector, and facilitate knowledge exchange among attendees.

Date and Place

The 5^th Cambodian Water Conference and Exhibition will be held on December 3-4, 2024 at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel, Phnom Penh City, Kingdom of Cambodia. Additionally, the site visit to Private Water Supply Utility will be conducted at the morning of December 5^,2024.

Language

The official languages of the 5^th Cambodian Water Conference and Exhibition are Khmer and English. Simultaneous interpretation will be available for all sessions, ensuring seamless communication and inclusivity for our diverse audience.

Expected Participant

It is expected to have approximately 600 participants who are from relevant governmental agencies, development partners, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academia, think tanks, public and private water operators, suppliers, financial institutions (bank and MFIs), and more.

III. Event Organization

This conference offers a multifaceted approach to learning and engagement.

- - Plenary session sets the stage, drawing everyone together for major announcements and introductions.
  - Inspiring keynotes dive deep into key themes.
  - Interactive panel discussions where diverse perspectives and practical insights are shared.
  - Technical sessions delve into specific topics led by experts.
  - Gala dinner builds network among potential partners and collaborators
  - Beyond networking, companies and development partners can propose training sessions, workshops, and seminars, ensuring the topics and skills covered are directly relevant to participants’ needs.
  - Site visit offers a hands-on learning experience, showcasing cutting-edge technology.

IV- Expected Outcome

The 5^th Cambodian Water Conference and Exhibition will raise awareness of the Cambodian water sector’s critical trends and challenges, including increasing demand for clean water and disparities in access between rural and urban areas. By fostering dialogue and collaboration between government, development partners, and NGOs, the conference seeks to mobilize multi-levels action through concrete short- and long-term plans. These plans could involve advocating for policy changes, investing in infrastructure development, and promoting innovative in the sector. For product and service providers, the event presents a unique platform to showcase technologies and solutions to a targeted audience of potential clients and investors. Participants, including government officials, development partners, and water sector professionals, will gain valuable knowledge about cutting-edge solutions and best practices in the piped water sector, enabling them to make informed decisions and contribute to sustainable water management in Cambodia.