Aki Ra

Aki Ra: From Child Soldier to Demining Hero

Aki Ra, born around 1970, is a remarkable figure whose life story is as complex and layered as the landmines he has spent decades clearing. His journey from being a child soldier in the Khmer Rouge to becoming one of Cambodia’s leading deminers and museum curators is nothing short of extraordinary.

From Orphanage to Soldier

Aki Ra’s story begins with tragedy. He was taken in by Yourn after his parents were killed by the Khmer Rouge, joining a group of orphaned children who shared similar fates. The question arises: How does one go from being an innocent child to becoming a soldier? Aki Ra’s transformation into a child soldier is a stark reminder of the devastating impact war has on the lives of its youngest victims.

From Soldier to Deminer

After his time as a soldier, Aki Ra’s life took a dramatic turn. He began working with the United Nations (UN) as a deminer in 1992, removing and destroying over 50,000 landmines. This transition from placing to clearing mines is a powerful metaphor for redemption and second chances.

The Cambodian Landmine Museum

One of Aki Ra’s most significant contributions is the establishment of the Cambodian Landmine Museum. By charging tourists to see his collection, he turned a personal tragedy into an educational tool that raises awareness about landmines and their devastating effects.

Aki Ra’s Philanthropic Work

His work extends beyond demining. Aki Ra cares for young landmine victims and conducts mine risk education groups to teach people about the dangers of unexploded ordnance (UXO) and landmines. His efforts are a testament to his commitment to helping those affected by war.

Aki Ra’s Challenges

Despite his achievements, Aki Ra has faced numerous challenges. He was briefly imprisoned in 2001 and again in 2006, which forced him to cease demining activities for a time. However, he did not let these setbacks deter him. Instead, he trained with the International School of Security and Explosives Education and obtained full certification as a deminer.

Establishing Cambodian Self Help Demining (CSHD)

In 2008, Aki Ra established CSHD with the help of Landmine Relief Fund and the Vietnam Veterans Mine Clearing Team – Cambodia. This organization has cleared over 163,000 square meters of land in its first year alone, putting over 2,400 people back on their land.

Aki Ra’s Recognition

For his tireless efforts, Aki Ra has received several prestigious awards. He was honored with the CNN Hero award in 2010 and the Paul P. Harris Fellowship for peace and conflict resolution in 2013. His work also earned him the Manhae Foundation Grand Prize for Peace in South Korea in 2012.

Conclusion

Aki Ra’s journey is a powerful narrative of resilience, redemption, and hope. From being a child soldier to becoming a demining hero, his story serves as an inspiration to all who face adversity. Aki Ra’s work continues to make a significant impact on Cambodia, not just by clearing landmines but also by educating the next generation about the dangers they must avoid.