In South Sudan, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) has achieved major progress in making the country safer by clearing landmines, cluster bombs, and other explosive devices. As of now, over 1,300 square kilometres of land and more than 4,000 kilometres of roads have been made safe.
This work was highlighted during the recent event marking the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, held under the theme “Safe Futures Start Here.”
This event is taking place in April 2025 across South Sudan, bringing attention to the serious danger left behind by years of violent civil war. Since 2004, over 5,000 people have died due to hidden explosives. These dangerous items remain scattered across farmland, schools, water sources, roads, and health clinics.
So far, UNMAS has helped clear over 15,000 farmlands, 344 schools, 316 water points, and 437 health facilities. More than 1.2 million explosives have been destroyed, and mine risk education has been given to over 7 million people to help them stay safe.
The UN’s Deputy Special Representative in South Sudan, Anita Kiki Gbeho, explained that this effort is not just technical work—it’s a key step in healing the country and moving towards peace. She stressed the need for continued funding, government support, and stronger systems to reach the goal of a mine-free South Sudan by 2030.
UNMAS works closely with South Sudan’s National Mine Action Authority, the UN peacekeeping mission, and aid groups to protect civilians, open up access to services, and support rebuilding efforts like fixing roads and public infrastructure. They also help local communities and government bodies learn how to stay safe and manage future risks themselves.
This important work is happening at a tense time, as political struggles are increasing between groups involved in the 2018 peace agreement. The United Nations is urging peace and stability to prevent a return to war, which would not only harm South Sudan but affect neighbouring countries as well.
