The Japanese Ambassador has spoken about the dangers of land mines in South Sudan. Seiji Okada says children are more at risk because they are not aware of their dangers.
He highlighted about the importance of non-technical survey in the areas affected to avoid casualties.
‘Children may find something small and funny. But don’t pick it. Never go close to it, it is very important for everybody to know. The reason Japan is supporting this program is it has also experienced this kind of conflict in the past. That’s why the safety of the people is very important. I hope by now you have learned and there will be no more casualties in this village.’
Director General of the National Mine Authority, Henry Okwera, says the government of Japan has been trying to reduce the risk of land mines through awareness.
‘The government of Japan has been giving all the support. The effects of mines have been reduced in South Sudan because of the support Japan’s government is offering. Japan is also supporting the mine risk education that’s why the community affected by mines now knows its dangers. It is also strengthening the capacity of the National Mine Action Authority.’ Okwera adds.
The UN Humanitarian Coordinator, Alain Noudohou says UN’s aim is to make sure that people stay at their homes without any threats of land mines.
‘The aim is to make sure {IDPs} stay or come back to their homes so they can start rebuilding their lives. That’s why what you are seeing this morning is to try to learn how to make sure you don’t get threatened by mines, or other explosive devices. To make sure your environment, your village is very secure to stay. We were also very impressed with what we saw earlier. Please talk to people about information where mines are located to make sure you continue to be safe in your village.’
For the past five years, it was hard for the team to demine all the mine areas. But with the recent technical survey, it encourages many to return home and receive awareness about the risks of landmines.
The Japanese government has spent 14.2 million US dollars around landmines safety issues.
The officials spoke during their visit on Thursday to Lologo site in Juba for non-technical survey and giving awareness education on mines to the community where over 3000 people have returned after the conflict.