World Bank Notes Progress in Ruweng Infrastructure

(PANRIENG) – H. E. Stephano Wieu de Mialek, the Chief Administrator of the Ruweng Administrative Area, met officials from the World Bank Group on Monday to discuss ongoing development work and possible new areas of partnership aimed at improving community resilience.

The meeting took place in Panrieng on 17 November 2025 and brought together senior officials, including Alex Bartoloni, the Project Manager for the IOM led Community Resilience and Local Governance Project Phase Two. The project is funded by the World Bank Group and is one of the key development initiatives currently active in the area.

During the discussion, Mr Bartoloni explained that the project is designed to strengthen local institutions and support communities affected by limited services and the effects of regional instability. He also noted the completion of several infrastructure projects, which include six schools, five health facilities and sixteen hand pumps and boreholes. These projects are seen as essential social services for communities that have experienced years of displacement and poor access to public services.

Mr Bartoloni said the World Bank Group remains committed to finishing the work already underway in the region. He added that the current phase of the project aims to improve local governance and increase community involvement in identifying and managing development needs.

H. E. Stephano Wieu praised the role the World Bank Group has played so far in Ruweng. He said the completed schools, health facilities and water points show the value of continued cooperation. He also urged the Bank to explore more partnership options that can help communities become more resilient and better prepared for future challenges.

He stated that the administration is ready to support any programmes that can improve livelihoods, access to services and economic activity across the Ruweng Administrative Area.

The meeting ended with both sides agreeing to continue their discussions on possible new areas of cooperation, with a shared focus on improving living conditions and expanding access to basic services for communities.