Last week, APOPO welcomed representatives from the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA) during the Fifth Review Conference of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (RevCON 5) in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The visit showcased APOPO’s innovative landmine detection and clearance programs and highlighted the critical role of PM/WRA’s support in humanitarian mine action across multiple regions
Ongoing Partnerships in Humanitarian Mine Action
APOPO’s collaboration with the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA) has been pivotal in addressing explosive remnants of war (ERW). Since October 2020, PM/WRA has supported APOPO’s demining operations in Zimbabwe, in a region critical for local community livelihoods and wildlife preservation.
In January 2023, PM/WRA and U.S. Embassy staff visited APOPO operations in the Sengwe Corridor, further demonstrating their commitment to humanitarian mine action. This partnership extends beyond financial support, involving direct engagement and strategic collaboration.
Innovative and Life-Saving Programs
During the recent RevCon5 visit, delegates toured the APOPO Visitor Center in Siem Reap and learned about two key programs:
- The Victim Assistance Program, implemented in partnership with Humanity and Inclusion, supporting mine-affected communities
- The Cluster Munition Remnants Survey using Technical Survey Dogs (TSD) in Eastern Cambodia
At the forefront of these efforts are APOPO’s mine detection rats (MDR aka HeroRATs) and technical survey dogs (aka HeroDOGs), whose remarkable skills in detecting explosives have transformed demining operations. These animals play an essential role in restoring hope and safety to vulnerable regions, ensuring that affected communities can rebuild without fear.
International Collaboration
The recent visit highlights the ongoing global cooperation in addressing the devastating impacts of explosive remnants of war. We extend our gratitude to the U.S. Government and the Weapons Removal and Abatement Office for their continued support in building safer communities worldwide.
APOPO sincerely thanks the U.S. Government for their steadfast support in building safer communities.
