Juba, South Sudan – (African Boulevard News) – South Sudan is facing a daunting task as it struggles to meet the 2026 deadline for clearing all landmines, says the UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS). According to UNMAS, over 5,000 people have been killed or injured by unexploded ordnances and landmines since 2004.
This crisis is putting the country’s fragile peace process and economic development at risk. In an interview with African Boulevard News, the Director of UNMAS in South Sudan, Tim Lardner, said, “Mines and explosive devices pose a significant threat to the lives and livelihoods of the people of South Sudan, and much more needs to be done to reduce this threat.”
The landmines and unexploded ordnance scattered throughout South Sudan have been left over from years of fighting and civil unrest since the country gained independence in 2011. These explosives are found in residential areas, farmland, and infrastructure, making it difficult for citizens to farm their land or children to attend schools safely.
The process of clearing landmines is long, complex, and costly. One of the biggest challenges is identifying and tracking the location of the mines. “Many mines were laid decades ago, and no accurate records were kept of their location. This makes our task more difficult,” said Lardner.
Moreover, South Sudan’s political and economic instability has made it hard to secure enough funding for the clearance process. “We need resources, more staff, and better equipment. Our funding is always precarious, and we rely on donations from governments and organizations,” stated Lardner.
Despite the challenges, the UNMAS has cleared almost two-thirds of the country’s hazardous areas. But with the 2026 deadline fast approaching, the organization is urging all stakeholders to come together to ensure that these explosives are removed. They are seeking continuous funding for the clearance process, as well as awareness campaigns targeting the local communities about the dangers of landmines.
The situation in South Sudan calls for urgent attention and action from all sides. It is essential to prioritize the clearance of landmines, so that the country can move forward towards a peaceful and prosperous future. As Lardner puts it, “It is crucial to remember that the real victims of this crisis are the people who live with the threat of these explosives every day.”
