A famous mine-clearing rat, who was awarded a gold medal for his heroism, has been commemorated with the world's first statue dedicated to a landmine-detecting rat. Magawa, who lived to eight years old, sniffed out over 100 landmines and other explosives in Cambodia during his five-year career that started in 2016. A statue of the rodent carved from local stone by artists was unveiled in Siem Reap, Cambodia on Friday, in time for the International Day for Mine Awareness on 4 April. Landmines remain an ongoing risk to Cambodia, and more than a million people continue to work and live on land contaminated by mines and unexploded ordnance, according to the United Nations. Magawa was trained by the Belgian charity Apopo and was the first rat to be awarded the PDSA Gold Medal for his life-saving contributions. Despite his passing in 2022, his legacy lives on with this unique statue, commemorating both his bravery and the work still needed to clear Cambodia's land of dangerous mines.
Cambodia Honors Hero Rat with Unique Statue!
Cambodia Honors Hero Rat with Unique Statue!
A tribute to Magawa, the brave rat who sniffed out landmines, has been unveiled in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This statue is a first of its kind, celebrating the incredible impact of this furry hero.
Cambodia has unveiled the world's first statue dedicated to a landmine-detecting rat named Magawa. This amazing rodent, awarded a gold medal for his life-saving contributions, detected over 100 landmines during his career. The statue, crafted from local stone, serves as a reminder of the ongoing risks of landmines in Cambodia. Magawa's legacy highlights the important role that trained animals can play in humanitarian efforts, and the country continues to strive towards a mine-free future by 2030.
