cross-posted from: https://mander.xyz/post/50072579
The statue was officially unveiled on April 3 in Siem Reap province, in the presence of First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action Authority Ly Thuch at the headquarters of APOPO.
Speaking at the ceremony, Senior Minister Ly Thuch said that for many years, some Cambodians have lived on land contaminated with unexploded ordnance, facing constant danger. Magawa’s work, he said, significantly reduced those risks and enabled communities to safely restore their livelihoods.
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"More than 100 mines and explosive remnants of war have been detected through Magawa’s work, allowing children to walk safely, farmers to cultivate freely, and communities to rebuild without hesitation,” Thuch said.
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Thuch added that Magawa’s legacy reflects the dedication of APOPO, which has introduced innovative approaches to mine action in Cambodia. It also highlights the collective efforts of mine action operators, national institutions, partner countries, and development organizations that have supported Cambodia over the years.
Magawa, originally from Tanzania, was trained by the Belgian nonprofit APOPO. According to the organization, he helped clear more than 225,000 square meters of land during his five-year career, the equivalent of about 42 football pitches. He was deployed to Siem Reap in 2016, where he began his operational work.
Over a stellar five-year career, Magawa sniffed out 71 landmines and 38 unexploded ordnances in Cambodia, earning the prestigious gold medal from the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals in 2020.
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After retiring in 2021, Magawa passed away in 2022, leaving behind a legacy of lifesaving work.
Cambodia has remained one of the world’s most heavily mined countries, with landmines and explosive remnants of war still threatening communities after decades of conflict.
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