Why Does Apopo Exist?

Today, Cambodia has the highest number of disabled people per capita, largely due to the many accidents caused by landmines. Many victims not only lose their lives but also suffer limb amputations, with children being particularly vulnerable. These mines not only cause deaths and injuries but also deeply affect the country’s economy. When an accident occurs, families often stop farming the land, fearing more mines in the area. Rice farming, one of Cambodia’s primary economic activities, suffers greatly, putting many families’ livelihoods at risk.

It is common to see people in the streets of Cambodia who have fallen victim to landmines, some singing or trying to lead dignified lives despite their hardships. Fortunately, organizations like Apopo are working to rid the country of mines. I had the opportunity to visit their headquarters in Siem Reap, where they train rats to detect mines. This organization has a unique approach: they use African rats, a species that undergoes about a year of training.

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Why Rats in Particular?

The training is highly effective, as a single rat can inspect 400 square meters in just half an hour, a task that would take a human with a metal detector up to four days. Moreover, metal detectors often produce false positives, while the rats are specifically trained to detect the scent of TNT, identifying mines with much greater precision.

The rats have a lifespan of around nine years but work for four to five years, as they only labor three to four hours a day to avoid heat exhaustion. Despite their short working hours, they are incredibly efficient. One major advantage of this method is that rats are light enough not to detonate the mines. They weigh about 1.5 kilograms, while mines typically require at least 5 kilograms to explode. However, if a child steps on a mine, the result can be fatal. Many of the amputees seen on Cambodia’s streets today are victims of mines they stepped on decades ago.

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A Profound Reflection

This trip profoundly moved me, making me reflect on how something unimaginable for many of us is the daily reality for others. Witnessing this firsthand reminded me of how fortunate we are and how what seems extraordinary to us is the normal life others endure and fight through every day.

I hope this story inspires you to see the world through a different lens and to appreciate what we often take for granted. Remember, you can follow more of my travels and adventures on my travel YouTube channel, beauty channel, and Instagram account.