Cambodia Honors Rat Who Cleared Land Mines

Summary

Magawa, an African giant pouched rat, detected over 100 unexploded ordnances in Cambodia during his five-year career, clearing more than 1.5 million square feet of dangerous terrain. Cambodia recently unveiled a seven-foot statue in his honor, recognizing his contribution to helping communities live safely after decades of conflict.

Quick Facts

• Magawa cleared 1.5 million square feet of land mines, making him one of APOPO's most successful detection rats
• He was fast enough to search a tennis court-sized area in 20 minutes using his excellent sense of smell
• Cambodia aims to be completely land mine-free by 2030, with over 1,300 square miles already cleared since 1992

Why It Matters

His work made land mine clearance faster and safer, directly protecting thousands of Cambodians from harm.