JUBA - “Every time we succeed, we are not just removing explosive ordinances. We are also planting possibilities.” This compelling call to action from Nyoka Loice Scopas, representing the Women in Mine Action Network, reflects the critical importance of the United Nations Mine Action Service’s work in South Sudan, where civil war has left a legacy of landmines and other unexploded ordnances, which continue to kill indiscriminately. “It is deeply…

In March, MONUSCO marked a transition with the appointment of James Swan as its new head, while the mission continued its stabilization efforts. In Ituri, Operation "Nyundo II" successfully secured the release of fourteen hostages, alongside community-led repairs on the Fataki-Lodha road. Regarding security and human rights, the Acting Head of Mission denounced the tragic killing of a UN staff member, while UNJHRO highlighted the urgent need to…

Afghanistan has the third highest explosive ordnance casualty rate in the world, with 50 people killed or injured every month.

Consultations have been launched to shape the next phase of the EU-funded Support Facility to the Technical Committees, bringing together the United Nations Good Offices Mission, UNDP, and the European Commission, alongside the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot coordinators and Co-Chairs of the 13 Technical Committees. This process comes at a key moment, as Phase II of the Support Facility approaches its conclusion in late 2026. This funding is…

BOR – “Every time I visited the prison, I encountered female inmates who wanted to feel useful but didn’t know how. So, I decided to do something to help.” After 30 years working as a prison officer in her home country Gambia, Fatou Njie joined the United Nations Mission in South Sudan with a personal mission in mind: leaving a lasting legacy. “For me, being a prison officer was always my dream. I knew I wanted to leave a memorable footprint in…

Today, on 3 April 2026, MINURSO celebrated the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action under this year’s theme: “

When Home Is No Longer Safe: A Family’s Return in Sudan In many parts of Sudan, families returning home after conflict face a hidden danger: explosive hazards. During fighting, explosive items can fall into residential areas without detonating. Long after the violence stops, these items remain a serious threat to civilians. For families trying to rebuild their lives, these hidden hazards can turn homes, parks, and neighborhoods into dangerous…

As we enter April, we commemorate the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action (IMAD). Since its inception in 1997, UNMAS has responded to conflicts across the world, working to mitigate the impact of explosive ordnance on communities. Since establishing a programme in the OPT in 2009, UNMAS has worked with partners and local communities to minimize explosive risks and support peace. Throughout this period UNMAS has…

Landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices exact a devastating toll on civilians, especially children...

The world marks the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action on 4 April, reaffirming the essential role mine action plays in securing peace, enabling recovery, and driving sustainable development. This year’s global theme, “Invest in Peace, Invest in Mine Action,” highlights a fundamental truth: peace cannot be sustained where landmines, cluster munition remnants, and other explosive ordnance continue to endanger…