The United Nations Mine Action Service continues to make progress with explosive clearance in Iraq. From the start of the year until mid-year, operations across Ninewa governorate achieved remarkable results.
Teams successfully removed 7,401 explosive remnants of war. Additionally, they eliminated 399 improvised explosive devices from high-risk areas. These efforts significantly increased safety and opened the way for humanitarian projects.
Meanwhile, the clearance teams completed 14 operations in different locations. These operations directly helped local communities begin rebuilding their lives. As a result, residents resumed livelihood activities. Humanitarian groups could also access the cleared zones and begin life-saving work.
Furthermore, the team responded to 51 community reports of explosive ordnance. In response, they removed 173 more dangerous items. These quick-response tasks helped reduce the risk to civilians in several neighborhoods.
The mission also focused on education and training. A total of 188 police officers received vital instruction to help protect their communities. Among them, 41 were women. These officers learned how to identify, report, and mark dangerous items.
In addition to police training, several technical courses took place. These included two drone training sessions and a GPS navigation course. Awareness courses on the dangers of mines, UXO, and IEDs were also held. These sessions aimed to build knowledge and increase local safety awareness.
Moreover, two advanced training courses prepared trainers to spread awareness even further. One intensive course also taught IED disposal, giving teams new skills to manage threats on the ground.
As part of its ongoing support to communities, the service delivered risk education to over 13,000 people. These sessions targeted communities near active clearance zones. The main goal was to inform people about how to stay safe while living in or near contaminated areas.
Altogether, explosive clearance in Iraq plays a major role in restoring safety and helping communities rebuild. Each task, training, and education effort adds up to a larger mission of peace and recovery. As operations continue, the team remains committed to protecting civilians and supporting national recovery.