Cambodia’s First Lady, Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet, emphasized the important role of women’s entrepreneurship in promoting national economic growth. She made the statement during the official opening of the Women’s Economic Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Development Center (WEE-DC) on December 3, in Phnom Penh’s Daun Penh district.
Women as the Essential Driving Force for National Development
In her keynote speech, Chanmony highlighted that women are “an essential driving force contributing to stronger, more resilient economic and social development.” The launch of the WEE-DC shows the Royal Government’s strong commitment to enhancing women’s skills, broadening economic opportunities, and ensuring women are fully empowered to take part in Cambodia’s changing economy.
WEE-DC: A Hub for Startups and Global Markets
The newly established WEE-DC aims to boost women’s entrepreneurship and increase their contribution to the national economy. The centre is designed to serve as a hub for:
- Developing economic skills
- Nurturing women-led startups
- Fostering innovation
- Connecting entrepreneurs to broader markets
It will also promote research and support the development of products and services with potential to enter national, regional, and global value chains.
New Center Aligns with Pentagon Strategy Goals
The Royal Government, under Phase I of the Pentagon Strategy, continues to emphasize gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Entrepreneurs Welcome New Support Initiative
Women entrepreneurs present at the inauguration welcomed the initiative, noting that Cambodian women today have significantly greater access to resources, training, and business opportunities compared to previous generations. Many expressed optimism that the centre will function as both a practical support network and a source of inspiration for women aiming to establish or grow their enterprises.
The First Lady reaffirmed the government’s longstanding principle that “women are the backbone of the nation’s economy and society,” adding that initiatives like the WEE-DC will help ensure women entrepreneurs play an even more dynamic role in shaping Cambodia’s economic future.