Cambodia: Strengthening Partnership Between the Ministry of Health and WFP for Sustainable Nutrition and the Fight Against Non-Communicable Diseases

The Ministry of Health of Cambodia and the World Food Programme (WFP) have formalized an expanded technical cooperation framework aimed at strengthening national nutrition systems and intensifying the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as heart diseases, diabetes, or strokes, which heavily impact public health in Cambodia.

This initiative is part of the implementation of the National Health Strategic Plan 2025–2034, focused on prevention, health promotion, and risk reduction related to NCDs.

Targeted Actions for Improved Nutrition

This strengthened cooperation revolves around four key areas: updating national guidelines for managing acute malnutrition, developing school nutrition programs closely with the Ministry of Education, conducting awareness campaigns on the importance of healthy eating and balanced lifestyles, and reinforcing nutrition systems in all provinces.

WFP also supports the integration of products from local agriculture into these programs, thereby boosting rural economies and community resilience.

Community Mobilization and Capacity Building

The impact on the ground is enhanced by supporting the training of community actors, notably through village health support groups and local councils dedicated to women and children. These initiatives contribute to early detection of malnutrition, guiding families, and nutrition monitoring for the population.

Multisectoral coordination between government agencies and international partners proves crucial to maximize the reach and effectiveness of these measures.

A Commitment to Sustainable Development

This strategy benefits from strong technical and financial support from major actors such as the World Bank, KOICA, UNICEF, and other donors, within a global framework aimed at reducing dependency on external aid while consolidating national capacities.

Strengthening health systems and investing in human capital respond to sustainable development goals, with a commitment to ensuring continuous improvement in the health and nutrition of the most vulnerable populations.

Towards a Healthier and More Resilient Future for Cambodia

Through this strategic collaboration, Cambodia reaffirms its ambition to establish a robust nutrition system capable of addressing current and future public health challenges.

By combining training, innovation, and partnerships, the country relies on an integrated and sustainable approach to ensure a better quality of life for all its citizens, thus contributing to balanced and inclusive national development.