This brave little rat has been saving lives in Cambodia for quite a time now and it has just been awarded the gold medal for exceptional bravery by England’s PSDA. This award by the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals is on the same level of the George cross award.
Magawa, is the first rat to join the superhero – animals who received PSDA awards among other brave dogs, cats, horses and pigeons.
This hero has discovered around 39 landmines while making more than 141 000 square meters safe on its missions. This African giant pouched rodent is a living example to prove that size doesn’t matter if you want to make the world a better place.
More info: PDSA.org.uk | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | APOPO.org | Previous Medal Winners
The hero- rat who won a gold medal by PSDA for its bravery

Magawa with its medal

Magawa with its human partner

The proud but humble hero!

The medal was made by the only company that makes PSDA medals. “Cleave and Co.” is the company that forges all the PSDA medals and they are also the proud creators of the engagement ring of Meghan Markle ; the Duchess of Sussex.
Awarding Magawa with this gold medal was an exciting occasion for all the parties included. It was a special awarding ceremony since the ceremony was held via live link due to the COVID-19 impacts.
The landmine detector; Magawa




This hero-rat is extremely important to Cambodia since there are close to 6 million landmines estimated to be buried beneath the country and still causing casualties. Many lives were saved by Magawa which makes it very worthy of the PSDA Gold Medal.
The life saving rodent


Magawa in action


Magawa and the other rodents who serve to detect landmines have excellent smelling senses and memories as well
Hero-rats detect landmines faster than any human with a metal detector




The PSDA was founded in 1917 so that the financial status of the owner doesn’t affect the pet in any way for them to suffer. The Award Programme was founded in 1943 which allowed to mark and raise the status of animals who serve honorable duties to make this world a better place.
What footage of Magawa in action

Languages, music, and cinematography are some of the most interesting things to me. Love to explore more about the world and share it with all of you online!
Hotelier | Writer | Music/Movie Enthusiast | Human!