PHNOM PENH — The Cambodian Red Cross (CRC) has donated US$1 million to the Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospital, marking its ninth consecutive annual contribution and 15th overall to the renowned pediatric institution.
CRC President Samdech Kittiprittpundit Bun Rany Hun Sen personally handed over the funds at CRC headquarters, joined by Health Minister H.E. Prof. Chheang Ra; Swiss Kantha Bopha Foundation Director General Dr. Denis Laurent; and Prof. Ky Santy, Director of the Phnom Penh hospital.
Quick Facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Donation amount | US$1 million |
| Donor | Cambodian Red Cross (CRC) |
| Recipient | Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospital |
| CRC President | Samdech Kittiprittpundit Bun Rany Hun Sen |
| 9th consecutive year | Yes |
| 15th overall contribution | Yes |
| Children treated (33 years) | ~27.5 million |
| Beds | 3,000+ |
| Staff | 3,000+ |
| Annual operating cost | ~US$45 million |
| Swiss foundation commitment | Extended through 2027 |
27.5 Million Children Treated in 33 Years
Health Minister H.E. Prof. Chheang Ra expressed deep gratitude for the CRC’s steadfast leadership in mobilizing resources, which helps the hospital maintain its policy of free treatment for children.
“Over the past 33 years, Kantha Bopha has examined and treated approximately 27.5 million children,” Prof. Chheang Ra said.
He noted that the hospital currently operates more than 3,000 beds and employs over 3,000 staff across its facilities.
Annual Operating Costs
Running the two Kantha Bopha hospitals in Cambodia costs roughly US $45 million annually, with expenses already reaching US $16 million in the first five months of 2026 alone.
The financial demands highlight the critical importance of sustained donor support, both domestic and international.
Swiss Foundation Commits Support Through 2027
Dr. Denis Laurent reaffirmed that the Swiss Kantha Bopha Foundation remains fully committed to extending its financial support into 2027, ensuring continuity of care for Cambodia’s most vulnerable children.
CRC President’s Remarks
In response, CRC President Samdech Kittiprittpundit Bun Rany Hun Sen commended progress in Cambodia’s healthcare sector, urging hospital leadership and medical staff to uphold high professional ethics and exceptional care.
She reaffirmed that the CRC will remain a steadfast supporter of the hospital’s mission, emphasizing that no child should be turned away due to inability to pay.
Context
Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospital was founded in 1992 by Swiss pediatrician Dr. Beat Richner, who passed away in 2018. The hospitals provide free pediatric care to millions of Cambodian children, covering everything from emergency services to complex surgeries.
The CRC’s annual contribution is part of a broader national effort to sustain the hospitals, with support also coming from the Royal Government, private donors, and international partners.