A UN official has said that landmines kill at least 10 people every day around the world and that 40 per cent of the casualties are children.
Bruno Donat, Chief of the UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS), Geneva office, made the remarks on Monday to commemorate the 11th International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.
The United Nations International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action is observed on April 4 each year, the aim of which is to raise awareness about landmines and progress toward their eradication.
He disclosed that in 2015, some 64 square km of land were cleared, equivalent to 16,000 football pitches.
This year’s theme for the commemoration of the day is “Mine Action is Humanitarian Action.”
Donat explained that mine action saved lives and ensures that landmines and explosive hazards in war-torn areas are found and destroyed.
He said that through destruction, it would make delivery of humanitarian assistance possible, so that people and supplies could reach those most in need.
Donat said that in Geneva, UNMAS is marking the day with an exhibition showcasing a selection of photos and art pieces that illustrate the pillars of mine action, such as clearance, stockpile destruction, mine risk education, victim assistance and advocacy.
He said UNMAS would also host seven live interactive sessions with country programmes from Afghanistan, Iraq, Mali, Palestine, Somalia, South Sudan and Syria.