April 4th is International Mine Awareness Day that is observed annually to reflect on the devastating effects landmines and unexploded ordnance have on land, communities and livelihoods, whilst focusing on the efforts made so far to clear contaminated areas for the future safety of those at risk.
Landmines and unexploded ordnance continue to threaten the livelihoods of communities around the world today. Recent figures from the 2020 Landmine Monitor show that:
- 2019 was the fifth year in a row with high numbers of casualties due to landmines;
- 5,554 casualties from landmines and explosive remnants of war were recorded in 2019;
- Children accounted for 43% of the 2019 casualties where the age was known;
- As of October 2020, 66 countries around the world are still contaminated with landmines.
It is clear to see that the threat of landmines continues to be a reality for millions of people, therefore TDI are dedicated to reducing this risk through clearance activities and providing life-saving explosive ordnance risk education.
Every year, TDI project teams take part in events in each country in which we work to mark this day, raising awareness of the effects of landmines. In 2021, TDI will celebrate our 15th year working in South Sudan clearing landmines and unexploded ordnance, and raising awareness of these hazards. The theme for this year’s events in the country is ‘through perseverance and partnership we make progress.’ TDI Risk Education Officers will visit communities to deliver mine risk education and explain what to do when potentially dangerous items are found. As COVID19 is still an ongoing threat in many countries around the world, ready-made packs of hand sanitisers and masks will be distributed to the communities visited in conjunction with the risk education sessions. The day’s events will be supported with billboards and radio broadcasts to spread the message to as wide an audience as possible.
TDI is proud to assist in this annual day’s events whilst protecting children and communities living in danger of unexploded ordnance in each country that the company works in.