UN increases efforts to render Somalia free of explosive hazards

The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) on Thursday pledged to continue efforts to clear Somalia of explosive remnants of war (ERW) and to enhance the capacity of the Somalia Explosive Management Authority (SEMA), Xinhua reported.

Landmines and ERW continue to pose a threat to the safety of Somali people, causing accidents and injuries, with 1,390 civilian casualties recorded since 2004.

UNMAS has secured $240,000 for its humanitarian mine action project in Somalia to promote peace and safety, the source mentioned.

UNMAS has highlighted the need for an effective humanitarian mine action response in areas of Somalia exposed to new explosive contamination due to recent military operations.