(Phnom Penh): On 5 February 2026, a new partnership agreement was formally signed at CMAC headquarters between the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) and Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), aimed at strengthening humanitarian mine action and advancing Cambodia’s goal of becoming mine-free, according to CMAC Director General Heng Ratana.

The agreement was signed by Hans Peter Risser, Resident Representative of NPA in Cambodia, and CMAC leadership. It establishes a joint project to advance peace and security through the survey and clearance of landmines, cluster munitions, and other explosive remnants of war (ERW) in Cambodia.

The project is funded by a USD 5 million grant from the US Department of State to NPA. Of the total amount, USD 4 million will be allocated to CMAC for operational activities, while USD 1 million will support NPA-led initiatives, including capacity building, Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE), and project management.

Planned activities include comprehensive land release of cluster munition remnants, improved nationwide response to explosive hazards, and the clearance of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) along the Cambodia–Thailand border.

It is vital to note that, in addition to existing contamination, Cambodia remains heavily affected by cluster bombs, chemical substances, and various UXO. An estimated 441,595 hectares across 340 villages remain contaminated. This spans seven provinces: Preah Vihear, Oddar Meanchey, Battambang, Pursat, Koh Kong, and Siem Reap. In Oddar Meanchey province alone, contamination affects 40,471 hectares across 145 villages.

Norwegian People’s Aid has been a longstanding partner of CMAC since 1992. This enduring collaboration has contributed significantly to reducing explosive threats, restoring land for productive use, and enhancing national mine action capacity. Through this continued partnership, NPA and CMAC remain committed to improving the safety and well-being of communities across the country.

On behalf of the affected communities and CMAC staff, Director General Heng Ratana also expressed special thanks to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, and President Donald J. Trump, as well as the people and Government of the United States, for their continued support of this important partnership. He added that this reflects a longstanding US commitment to safeguarding communities, expanding access to safe land, and promoting long-term peace and stability in Cambodia.
=FRESH NEWS