On the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, observed annually on 4 April, Project Masam carried out an Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE) session for students in Yemen’s Hajjah Governorate, highlighting the ongoing risks posed by landmines and unexploded ordnance across Yemen.
Hajjah Governorate, including the Midi district, is among Yemen’s most heavily mine-affected areas, with widespread contamination after years of conflict in a country where an estimated one to two million landmines have been laid.
The session was delivered by Team 38 at Al-Ja’ada Primary School in the Midi district. Activities took place outdoors in shaded areas near the school, where large groups of students gathered for instruction. Children were shown visual materials and printed warning cards illustrating different types of explosive hazards and safe behaviour messages.
Students were guided through basic safety principles, including not approaching unfamiliar objects, avoiding contaminated areas, and reporting suspicious items to adults or local authorities. The session included direct interaction between trainers and students, with questions and demonstrations to reinforce understanding.
Team 38 leader, Engineer Saif Al-Mashmari, said the session focused on helping children recognise explosive threats and respond safely. He noted that the activity contributed to improving awareness in an area where contamination remains present.
He also warned of increased risks during the rainy season, when flooding can move landmines into new locations, including near homes, schools, and roads.
Sheikh Majid Jaidi said recent floods have already caused shifts in landmine locations, increasing the threat to civilians, particularly children, women, and farmers. He highlighted the importance of continued awareness efforts alongside clearance operations.
He also commended Project Masam teams in the Midi district for their work in surveying and clearing contaminated land and removing landmines and unexploded ordnance.
Marking Mine Awareness Day, the session forms part of Project Masam’s wider efforts to reduce risk through community awareness, alongside ongoing clearance operations to protect civilians across Yemen.
