
Juba — More than 200 square kilometers of land in South Sudan remain uncleared of landmines, the National Mining Authority said on Friday.
Speaking during the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, Jurkuch Barac Jurkuch, chairperson of the National Mine Action Authority, said approximately 200 square kilometers remain to be cleared as of 2024.
“The National Mining Authority and our partners marked significant milestones to clear and remove mines and unexploded ordnance to build a safe environment in South Sudan with a vision of peace, safety, and stability,” said Barac.
Barac said landmines and explosive remnants of war have continued to endanger lives, restricting access to essential services and preventing communities from rebuilding their lives.
“Since the launch of the first humanitarian demining teams in 2004 and the establishment of the National Mine Action Authority following the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005, South Sudan has made remarkable strides.”
He said they have so far reclaimed more than 1,300 square kilometers of land, adding that efforts are underway to clear remaining land contaminated by mines and unexploded ordnance.
He announced a new target to rid the country of landmines and unexploded ordnance by 2030.
For her part, Anita Kiki Gbeho, special representative of the Secretary-General of the mission in South Sudan, called on the government and partners to continue to support efforts to clear landmines.
“A South Sudan free from explosive hazards is now within reach. we must continue working toward. Mine awareness and mine action are more than just technical undertakings,” said Kiki.
Meanwhile, Zehrudin Sukanovic, Chief Mine Action, UNMAS South Sudan, reaffirmed their commitment to clearing minefields and battlefields and strengthening sustainable national mine action capacity.
“Mine action remains committed to being a critical enabler, supporting UN missions, UN entities, humanitarian operations, and communities while fostering national ownership and capacity building,” Sukanovic.
Observed on April 4 annually, the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action brings together partners across South Sudan to underscore the importance of mine action in safeguarding communities from the lingering threat of explosive remnants of war.