Saudi Arabia’s Project Masam: Clearing Land Mines in Yemen
In an exceptionally impressive display of dedication to humanitarian aid and safety, Saudi Arabia’s Project Masam has successfully dismantled 1,046 land mines planted by the Houthi militia in Yemen in a mere seven days. This remarkable achievement forms part of the ongoing endeavours by the Saudi aid agency KSrelief to eliminate the threat posed by these deadly explosives.
The initiative, overseen by KSrelief, has deployed specialist teams to concentrate on the crucial task of neutralising the land mines, effectively rendering them harmless. The mines removed included 915 unexploded ordnance, 118 anti-tank mines, 12 improvised explosive devices, and one anti-personnel mine. The indiscriminate placement of these explosives by the Houthi militia has presented a significant peril to the innocent civilians of Yemen, particularly vulnerable groups, such as children, women, and the elderly.
Project Masam is just one facet of Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive effort under the guidance of King Salman to assist the people of Yemen. The initiative serves the vital purpose of ensuring safe routes for humanitarian assistance to reach the citizens of Yemen, where such aid is urgently required.
The extensive demining operations, conducted in various regions including Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale, and Saada, have had a significant and positive impact. Project manager Ousama Al-Gosaibi reported that since the inception of the initiative in 2018, a staggering 428,580 mines have been cleared. This includes 271,376 unexploded ordnance, 142,801 anti-tank mines, 7,947 improvised explosive devices, and 6,447 anti-personnel mines. The enormity of these numbers underscores the gravity of the threat that the project aims to eliminate.
Furthermore, the project has adopted a proactive approach by training local demining engineers and equipping them with state-of-the-art technology. Additionally, it extends its support to those injured by the devices, exemplifying a thorough and compassionate approach to the issue at hand.
The gravity of the situation in Yemen is further underscored by the estimated 5 million people who have been compelled to abandon their homes due to the conflict, with many displaced by the presence of landmines on their land. The efforts of Project Masam play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of these affected individuals by clearing crucial areas including villages, roads, and schools, thereby facilitating the movement of civilians and the delivery of much-needed humanitarian aid and services.
Moreover, the commitment to this cause is demonstrated by the extension of the project’s contract until June 2023, with an additional cost of $33.29 million. This decision underscores the unwavering dedication of Saudi Arabia to this vital humanitarian effort.
The remarkable work undertaken by Project Masam echoes the sentiments of solidarity and compassion during times of adversity. It serves as a beacon of hope in the face of the grave challenges faced by the people of Yemen. Saudi Arabia’s unyielding commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the citizens of Yemen is a testament to the values of humanitarianism and solidarity.
