In Cambodia, a remarkable tribute has been paid to a heroic animal that played a significant role in making landmines safer. On April 4, 2022, a statue was unveiled in Siem Reap, commemorating Magawa, an African giant pouched rat who dedicated five years of his life to identifying landmines. Trained by the Belgian charity Apopo, Magawa became an essential asset in the ongoing battle against landmines, which continue to pose a dangerous threat to local communities. Throughout his service, from 2016, he was credited for sniffing out over 100 landmines and clearing an area equivalent to 20 football pitches. In addition to his impressive work, Magawa received the PDSA Gold Medal in 2020 for his exceptional skills and bravery, marking him as the first rat ever to be awarded such an honor. His precise olfactory abilities allowed him to detect a specific chemical compound in explosives, alerting human instructors who could safely neutralize the hidden dangers beneath the soil. Magawa's contributions went beyond demarcating danger zones; he significantly improved the quality of life for countless Cambodians who lived in proximity to contaminated land. Despite his retirement due to aging the rat passed away in 2022, leaving behind a legacy that extends beyond his remarkable achievements. His dedication continues to highlight the ongoing problem of landmines in Cambodia, where over one million residents still navigate the risks posed by unexploded ordnance. The dedication of the statue serves as a reminder of the continuous efforts needed to make Cambodia a mine-free country by 2030, as stated by Michael Raine, Apopo's Cambodia Programme Manager. Additionally, the training of rats has broadened to include identifying tuberculosis and combatting illegal wildlife trafficking, showcasing their versatility and vital roles in humanitarian efforts. Another Apopo-trained rat, Ronin, has since surpassed Magawa’s records, further underlining the ongoing success of this unique and effective method of education and training in mine detection. As awareness grows, so does the need for more de-mining operations and resources to ensure safety for future generations in the region.