An official has called on international partners to join
hand with government and double efforts to clear unexploded remnant of wars
across South Sudan.
Deputy Minister of Interior, David Marial Gumke, urged the international community to intensify efforts to ensure effective mine action in areas across the country affected by explosive hazards.
As South Sudan continues its transition from war to peace,
landmines and unexploded ordnance remain dangerous reminders of past violence,
posing threats to the population.
In the previous year, the government enacted the National
Mine Action Authority Act, 2023, legislation designed to address challenges
related to mine action activities.
“We continue to face explosive hazards that have long been
planted in our midst. There is a pressing need for the government and
international partners to redouble efforts and fulfill our commitment to
ensuring effective and successful Mine Action in affected areas across the
country,” Gumke stressed during the commemoration of the International Day for
Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.
Gumke assured that the government is committed to creating
an environment free from explosive hazards.
“We are dedicated to providing adequate security and
enhancing our working relationships as we strive for peaceful and accommodating
environments. This action is driven by a moral responsibility to free our
children and communities from the physical and psychological fear of explosive
ordnance,” he stated.
“Wars are fought, peace is made, but nothing is more
inspiring than the power of collective action. Together, we will overcome the
challenges and pave the way for a South Sudan free from explosive ordnance
contamination.”
The official further urged cooperation from the national
level to grassroots communities to ensure that international humanitarian
organizations have the access and protection they deserve.
Landmines and remnants of war are explosive devices designed
to detonate upon the presence, proximity, or contact of a person.
Reports indicate that South Sudan, once a war zone, is still
littered with an unknown number of landmines and other explosive remnants of
war. These landmines reportedly continue to obstruct movement, deter investors,
and instill fear in returning refugees.
According to the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), over 84 million square meters of cluster munitions and mines have been cleared in nearly two decades.