The Masam Landmine Clearance Project – Yemen has launched a refresher training programme for its demining teams operating in the Marib and Aden sectors.
This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to reintegrate and requalify teams that were inactive for over 21 days during the holy month of Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr.
Reinforcing critical safety concepts
Retief Horn, Project Masam’s Deputy Managing Director, emphasised the importance of the training, noting that the programme focuses on reinforcing safety protocols and renewing the teams’ commitment to standardised demining methodologies.
“All participating teams have previously received similar training,” Horn said. “However, this training is designed to reinforce critical safety concepts and ensure that teams maintain a high level of preparedness during field operations.”
The programme included practical field training utilising the “block clearance” methodology – a technique particularly effective in minefields with unclear or absent markings (as is the case in Yemen where minefields have been laid without proper marking or maps).
Horn highlighted the project’s commitment to enforcing strict safety-distance protocols during clearance operations. He explained that the minimum safe distance between teams is maintained at 25 metres when dealing with anti-personnel mines, and 50 metres when clearing anti-tank mines.
Ensuring vigilance and a safe return
The Deputy Managing Director cautioned that teams operating in areas with low mine density may fall into a false sense of security, potentially leading to lapses in maintaining safe working distances. He stressed that these refresher trainings are essential for reinforcing the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols, ensuring the continued protection of personnel in the field.
A lifesaving project entering its seventh year
Commenting on the teams’ performance, Horn highlighted a significant improvement in their operational efficiency, particularly as the project nears the completion of its seventh year.
He insisted that Project Masam remains committed to equipping its teams with state-of-the-art tools and delivering top-tier training – factors that continue to strengthen their capacity to save lives and clear Yemeni land of deadly threats.
“I am fully confident that our teams will sustain their progress,” Horn concluded. “Project Masam will continue to stand as a beacon of hope for the Yemeni people on their path toward safety and stability.”
