Feb 18, 2026, PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – In a significant step to expand green financing and financial inclusion, the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank (ARDB) of Cambodia is collaborating with the Cambodia Microfinance Association (CMA) and Water.org to accelerate climate-focused investments in rural communities.
During a recent meeting at ARDB headquarters, ADFIAP Chairman and ARDB Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Kao Thach, highlighted the critical role of water in sustaining agriculture and rural livelihoods. He emphasized that reliable access to water is fundamental to ensuring food security, generating income, and building climate resilience.
Dr. Thach further underscored the strong link between water resources and green financing, noting that investments in essential infrastructure, sanitation, and efficient irrigation are vital to sustainable development. He noted that Water.org’s initiatives align perfectly with climate adaptation efforts and ARDB’s long-term strategy, particularly through the Cambodia Climate Finance Facility (CCFF).
Backed by a USD 100 million commitment from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), recently approved in Rwanda, the CCFF aims to bolster climate mitigation and adaptation by providing direct lending to green projects and wholesale financing for local institutions.
Moving forward, the potential cooperation between ARDB, CMA, and Water.org will include a memorandum of understanding, a national workshop focusing on financial inclusion and green finance for CMA members, and joint research initiatives.
Enabling Regional Impact
This initiative is a prime example of what ADFIAP actively enables across the Asia-Pacific region. By building cross-border partnerships and sharing knowledge, ADFIAP helps its network of development finance institutions advance sustainable green financing and financial inclusion for marginalized communities and MSMEs. Through programs like the Environmental Risk Scan and digital tools such as ADFIAPNET, the Association helps its members develop the tools they need to transform local economies and build climate resilience.
ADFIAP congratulates its member, ARDB, and its Chairman, Dr. Kao Thach, for their continued dedication to sustainable development, climate resilience, and pioneering green finance solutions in Cambodia.