Project Masam has launched a new refresher training course at its headquarters in Marib Governorate, targeting engineering teams operating across Marib, Shabwah, and Al-Jawf, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen field readiness and operational efficiency.
The training forms part of a broader capacity-building programme designed to equip demining teams with the skills needed to respond to evolving threats on the ground, particularly the increasing use of improvised explosive devices and newly adapted landmine types.
Yemen remains one of the most heavily contaminated countries in the world due to years of conflict, with landmines and explosive remnants of war continuing to pose a serious threat to civilians and hindering safe movement, agriculture, and recovery efforts.
Project Masam’s technical advisor Basi Gauss said the courses are conducted regularly to ensure teams remain prepared for changing field conditions. He noted that refresher training plays an important role in restoring both operational and mental readiness, particularly following periods of reduced activity such as Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. He added that sustained training efforts have contributed to a reduction in field incidents in recent years.
Muntazer Al-Rafani, Deputy Director of the Yemen Executive Mine Action Centre (YEMAC), emphasised that such programmes are central to developing team capabilities. He highlighted the importance of providing up-to-date knowledge on mine action techniques, including the safe handling of improvised explosive devices, which present an increasingly complex challenge.
Al-Rafani added that the training combines practical and theoretical components, including performance assessments, identification of emerging skills among team members, and reinforcement of compliance with national and international safety standards.
This initiative follows a similar training programme launched last week at Project Masam’s headquarters in Aden, which targeted teams operating in Aden, Lahj, Al-Dhale, Taiz, and Hudaydah, as part of continued efforts to strengthen operational capacity across Yemen.
