31 March - For a Sudan Free of Landmines

31 Mar 2010

31 March - For a Sudan Free of Landmines

Khartoum, 31 March 2010. " This work requires constant vigilance, diligence and collective action on many fronts. On this International Day, I salute the mine action workers who brave dangerous conditions and risk their lives in this pursuit. Let us all rededicate ourselves to this life-saving cause so that our children can live on a planet free from the threats caused by landmines and explosive remnants of war".
On 1st of April 2010, Sudan will join the world in remembering the affliction of millions of women, men, boys and girls who are victims of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW).
The people of Sudan have suffered greatly from the impact of landmines and ERW for many years. Although the number of casualties has significantly decreased since 2002, mines continue to kill and maim civilians everyday, reduce agricultural activity and prevent many communities from making a livelihoods.
However, the picture is looking brighter today. Since 2002, the United Nations Mine Action Office has been working to reduce the dangers caused my landmines and ERW. Together with partnership of the National Mine Action Authorities and NGOs from the Mine Action Sector in Sudan, they have opened more than 39,914 km of roads, cleared 57,886,940 square metres of land. Over 27,917 anti-personnel and anti-tank mines have been destroyed, as well as 1million ERW. More than 3.18 million people have received education against the threat of mines/ERW, and victim assistance programs allow survivors to start new businesses and support themselves and their families.
It is important to remember the stories behind these numbers. Each kilometre of road opened means that a farmer can now bring his produce to the market to sell. New clinics and new schools can be built. Displaced populations can return to their land and rebuild their home.
To commemorate the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action in Sudan, the National Mine Action Centre and the South Sudan Demining Authority, together with the United Nations and partners from the Mine Action sector will organize events in Khartoum and Juba.
On 1st April, join us in Khartoum, at the Friendship Hall from 9am to 3pm, or in Juba at Buluk Square from 3pm to 6pm. On this International Day, we will renew our commitment to carrying out the life-saving work of mine action and working together towards a Sudan free of landmines and ERW.
Notes to editors:
UNMAO co-ordinates, facilitates, and oversees all mine action activities in Sudan. Second largest mine action programme in the world. UNMAO works with the National Mine Action Authority, the Southern Sudan Demining Commission/Authority and UN, national and international agencies to reduce the impact of landmines and UXO in Sudan.

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