Productivity of mine clearance more than doubled with the development of demining machines

Heng Ratana
Deputy Director General (Cambodian Mine Action Centre)

Japan's high-leveled technology

Mine clearance is a very slow and patient process. The reason for this is of course, it's a very dangerous job, we need to have very good concentration. Without machines and development of new technology, we may not have been able to deliver good services as we have today.

Four or five year ago, we spent almost the same amount of money to clear half of the current output. Now, we have doubled or tripled the productivity with the same input and the same resources put in. With the new research development project, we will increase productivity and efficiency of our operation. We expect to have perhaps double productivity compared with that of today. So, this new technology through the research development success enables us to deliver these effective services for demining.

It is still a long way for Cambodia to clear mines. In the future, I believe that these machines will have very positive impact on mine clearance in Cambodia; they are not solely for mine clearance but also for the development in Cambodia.

Responding to the expectations from local residents

Our people, especially those living in the mine affected areas really want to see the land turn to become very safe for them as soon as possible. In the areas where we have conducted research and development trial (integration trial), some lands have already been used for growing sweet potato, rice or corn. They were planted in the beginning of the rainy season, around May last year. Now our people are about to harvest their products, rice, corn and so on this month.
They are very happy to see that this project can clear the land for them quickly so that they can make use of that land immediately and safely.

Partnership with JICS

JICS has always been a very important partner for CMAC in carrying out suitable activities. CMAC has been working together with JICS since 1994 -1995.
JICS has been involved in procuring a number of equipment for CMAC using the supports and assistances from the People and Government of Japan in the best way. JICS and CMAC always try to do the best to achieve important goals set by both governments.
Indeed, we do not only buy machines, but the machines that meet the requirements on the ground to manage operations in a very effective way.

I believe that JICS is one of the leading organizations in Japan with extensive experiences in procurements of the demaining equipment, from management down to technical staff. This competency can provide a reliable services with great competitive advantages. CMAC management, fully trusts on JICS continuing procurements of very suitable machines. We can carry out projects in a very professional way based on the effect that you have -- procurement management effect.

(Edit:January, 2009)