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CMAC, APOPO Sign MoU on EU-Funded Cluster Munition and UXO Clearance in Border Provinces
Phnom Penh, October 27, 2026: The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) and APOPO signed a Memorandum of Understanding today at CMAC Central Headquarters in Phnom Penh, officially launching a project to accelerate the survey and clearance of cluster munitions and unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Cambodia's border provinces.
The agreement was signed by Michael Raine, Country Director of APOPO in Cambodia, and a representative of CMAC. Titled "Supporting Stability and Recovery in Cambodia's Border Provinces Through Accelerated Survey and Clearance of Cluster Munitions and Unexploded Ordnance (UXO)," the project will run for 18 months, from October 2026 to March 2028, with a total budget of 1,600,000 euros—equivalent to approximately $1,800,000—provided as a grant from the European Union.
APOPO has been a vital international partner for CMAC in mine and explosive remnants of war (ERW) clearance since 2014. Through this long-term cooperation, both organisations have contributed significantly to freeing land from the threat of explosive remnants—particularly in areas affected by Thai cluster munitions in 2025 that struck residential areas and farmland—while strengthening technical capabilities and mine clearance operations, including the use of mine-detection dogs and rats in humanitarian work.
The project is expected to directly contribute to restoring socio-economic activities in affected regions, enhancing community safety and establishing favourable conditions for sustainable development. The joint effort also highlights the importance of cooperation between CMAC and international partners in addressing war remnants that continue to threaten the lives and safety of citizens.
Under the project, CMAC and APOPO have committed to continuing their close cooperation by leveraging their skills, experience and technical capabilities to accelerate safe and efficient clearance and surveys—a meaningful contribution to protecting citizens' lives, restoring communities and promoting human security along Cambodia's border.
Source: H.E Heng Ratana, Director of Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC)
Reported by The Khmer Today
