Marked by decades of war, Cambodia has seen the level of poverty decline, but inequalities persist. The food and economic crises in 2008 and 2009 led to an exodus from rural areas to the cities, predominantly the capital Phnom Penh. Migrants faced the risk of eviction from rental housing, and struggled to find employment and could not afford to provide their children with basic education. The Cambodian Government estimates that at least 10 million Cambodians lack access to decent housing. Habitat Cambodia is committed to reducing the need for substandard housing by 15 percent, and providing housing for 1.2 million families by 2020. The cost per house is $6,500.
Each year, a portion of Habitat Wake’s revenue is tithed to support global partners working to build safe, affordable housing around the world. One of our three international partners is Habitat for Humanity Cambodia. In April 2025, we had the honor of welcoming Vandy Phal, National Director of Habitat Cambodia, for a personal visit. He shared the latest insights on housing needs in Cambodia and how our partnership is making a meaningful impact on their work.
