On April 4th, the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, the world is reminded of a deadly threat that continues to claim lives and hinder recovery in Yemen: landmines and explosive remnants of war.
In a powerful speech marking this occasion, Ousama Algosaibi, Managing Director of Project Masam, issued a stark warning: “The failure to uphold international agreements and sustain demining efforts is costing lives. Yemen cannot afford more delays.”
A Crisis Deepened by Neglect
Over the past months, funding cuts have severely impacted mine action programs, jeopardising the safety of thousands of Yemeni civilians.
“The withdrawal of key supporters has forced vital partnerships to dissolve, leaving a devastating gap in humanitarian demining efforts,” Algosaibi stated. This gap means more landmines remain hidden in farmland, schools, and streets — threatening the lives of innocent civilians, particularly children.
Despite global bans and international efforts to curb the use of landmines, the Houthi militia continues to deploy these deadly devices indiscriminately.
“As one mine is cleared, dozens more are planted,” Algosaibi noted grimly. “This is not just a battle against explosives in the ground — it is a battle against the cycle of terror and suffering imposed on Yemeni civilians.”
Members of the Yemeni army pose in front of Ibrahim Aqeel School on the western outskirts of Taiz, a school still contaminated by landmines. Credit: Elsa Buchanan for Project Masam
Project Masam’s Tireless Efforts
Since 2018, Project Masam has been at the forefront of Yemen’s demining mission. Fully funded by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the project has cleared an astounding 65.8 million square meters of land. “Every mine removed is a life potentially saved, a home reclaimed, a future restored,” Algosaibi emphasised.
The project’s mission, however, extends beyond just mine clearance. It stands on three core pillars: demining, peacebuilding, and rebuilding Yemen’s future.
“Demining is not just about removing explosives; it’s about restoring hope, stability, and economic recovery,” he said.
A Yemeni farmer, Zeid Mohamed, 45, who was displaced by landmines and lost access to his land, poses next to his motorbike near the Aden-Hudaydah coastal road in Mokha, Yemen. Credit: Elsa Buchanan for Project Masam
Upholding International Law
Algosaibi also stressed the urgent need for the international community to uphold the humanitarian agreements they have ratified.
“The First and Second Geneva Conventions of 1949, the 1990 Declaration on the Rules of International Humanitarian Law — these are not optional guidelines. They are legal and moral obligations that must be enforced,” he urged.
Despite these established protections, ambiguity in international law has allowed grave violations under the pretext of military necessity.
“We cannot let legal loopholes be exploited while civilians pay the price,” Algosaibi said. “The world must demand accountability and action.”
Dalila Abdo Ahmed was severely injured after stepping on landmines near her house on the morning of her wedding in Taiz, Yemen. Credit: Elsa Buchanan for Project Masam
A Call for Immediate Action
As Yemen teeters on the edge of famine, with millions displaced and struggling for survival, the need for mine action has never been more critical.
“We urge the international community — governments, NGOs, and humanitarian actors — to take responsibility and reinstate funding for life-saving demining efforts,” Algosaibi added.
“We also call for immediate pressure on the Houthis to disclose minefield locations. The safety of millions depends on it.”
On this International Day for Mine Awareness, the managing director said Project Masam honours the resilience of Yemen’s people and the bravery of its deminers.
“We are not just clearing landmines; we are clearing the way for a safer, brighter future for Yemen,” Algosaibi concluded. “Let us stand together in this cause — stronger and more determined than ever.”
The commitment to removing these threats must be unwavering, as every mine removed brings Yemen closer to a future of peace and recovery. With continued international support and collective action, the people of Yemen can begin to rebuild their lives and communities, free from the deadly toll of landmines.
Siblings pose at the Fun City Park theme park, located opposite Sira Castle in Aden City, Yemen. Credit: Elsa Buchanan for Project Masam
Article first published by Medium.
