Angola's lingering landmine threat: Costly path to safety
Almost a thousand minefields remain in Angola following the end of the civil war in 2002. The country requires around £184 million to clear them, according to Brigadier General Leonardo Sapalo.
The civil war in Angola lasted nearly 27 years, and though it ended over twenty years ago, landmines scattered throughout the country continue to claim civilian lives.
Data from the National Demining Program of Angola indicates that about 88,000 people have fallen victim to mines. Additionally, many individuals displaced during the war still cannot return home due to the presence of these mines.
The mines also obstruct the construction of a railway line in the so-called Lobito Corridor, a critical investment for Angola and neighbouring countries like Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia.
The railway line itself has been completely cleared of mines, allowing work to continue and trains to resume their routes. However, some areas adjacent to the tracks still require demining, Sapalo stated on Wednesday during a meeting with representatives of the British organisation HALO Trust, which is aiding in clearing Angola of wartime remnants.
Progress in demining
General Sapalo reported that to date, along the Lobito corridor, 43,142 anti-personnel mines, 2,460 anti-tank mines, and 235,050 unexploded ordnances have been removed. The cost of clearing one square metre is approximately £2.40.
During a meeting with representatives of the British organisation HALO Trust, General Sapalo stressed the necessity of continued work for the safety and development of the country.
