Phnom Penh: The Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) has announced its support for a project by APOPO, an organisation known for its expertise in anti-personnel landmine detection. This initiative aims to convert minefields in Cambodia into productive rice fields.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the endorsement was expressed by H.E. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and CMAA First Vice President, during a meeting with Mr. Michael Heiman, Director of APOPO in Cambodia, held at the CMAA office. The meeting took place on June 5 and underscored the collaborative efforts between the two entities.
Mr. Michael Heiman shared details of the project, which targets a transformation of 10,000 hectares of land situated in Preah Vihear province. The initiative is seen as a significant contributor to improving the lives of local communities and aligns with Cambodia's goal of becoming landmine-free.
H.E. Ly Thuch expressed his appreciation for the APOPO initiative, noting that the CMAA might consider forming a task force. This task force would aim to bolster the project by working in conjunction with relevant ministries and institutions at both national and sub-national levels.
Furthermore, Mr. Michael Heiman extended his gratitude to the Senior Minister and provided updates on other key accomplishments of APOPO in Cambodia. Among these is the successful operation of the APOPO Visitor Centre in Siem Reap, which features maps of areas threatened by landmines and exhibits images of demining operations, particularly those involving trained mine-detecting rats.