AKP Phnom Penh, April 03, 2026 -- Cambodia officially honoured the legacy of Magawa, the world-renowned mine-detection rat, with the unveiling of a commemorative statue in Siem Reap on Friday. 

The ceremony, led by Senior Minister H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch, celebrated the African giant pouched rat’s extraordinary contribution to clearing remnants of war.

Magawa, who passed away in 2022, rose to international fame for his service with the Belgian NGO APOPO. During his five-year career (2016-2020), he sniffed out more than 100 landmines and unexploded ordnance, clearing over 141,000 square metres of land. His bravery earned him the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) Gold Medal in 2000.

"For years, many Cambodians lived in fear, uncertain of the ground beneath their feet," said H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch, First Vice-President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA). 

"Magawa helped restore that lost confidence. Because of his work, children can play safely, and farmers can till their land without fear."

The statue, situated along the Siem Reap riverbank, serves as a symbol of the innovative techniques brought to Cambodia by APOPO and the collective dedication of the international community. 

H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch emphasised that Magawa’s legacy represents a "standard of resilience and trust" in the ongoing mission to make Cambodia mine-free.

The unveiling comes on the eve of the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, observed annually on April 4. This year’s theme, "Invest in Peace; Invest in Mine Action," underscores that demining is a fundamental prerequisite for national stability and development.

"Mine clearance is more than a technical task; it is the foundation of peace and human dignity," H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch added, noting that while significant progress has been made under the leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, the mission continues in communities still awaiting safety from the shadows of the past.

The ceremony was attended by provincial officials, representatives from the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC), APOPO staff, and local students, all gathered to pay tribute to the small creature that made a monumental impact on the Kingdom’s recovery.

By K. Rithy Reak