Landmines still kill at least 10 people every day around world: UN official

Landmines kill at least 10 people every day around the world and 40 percent of these casualties are children, a UN official has said.

Bruno Donat, chief of the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) Geneva office, made the remarks ahead of the 11th International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.

The UN official added that in 2015, some 64 square km of land were cleared, which is equivalent to 16,000 football pitches.

The United Nations' International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action is observed on April 4 each year, the aim of which is to raise awareness about landmines and progress toward their eradication.

This year's theme for the commemoration of the day is "Mine action is humanitarian action."

Mine action saves lives and ensures that landmines and explosive hazards in war-torn areas are found and destroyed, making possible the delivery of humanitarian assistance so that people and supplies reach those most in need, Donat explained.

In Geneva, UNMAS is marking the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action with an exhibition showcasing a selection of photos and art pieces that illustrate the pillars of mine action, such as clearance, stockpile destruction, mine risk education, victim assistance and advocacy.

According to the UN official, UNMAS will also host seven live interactive sessions with country programmes from Afghanistan, Iraq, Mali, Palestine, Somalia, South Sudan and Syria. Endit