‘Great tragedy’ underlines the need to address the threat of unexploded ordnance in Somalia

UNMAS issued a statement saying it was “deeply saddened and saddened” by the deaths of 27 civilians, including 22 childrenin the “catastrophic incident” involving unexploded ordnance (UXO) that occurred on Friday in the Lower Shabelle region.

Fifty-three people were also injured.

Innocent lives were lost

“UNMAS extends its condolences to the families affected by this devastating event and share in their grief and pain during this incredibly difficult time,” said Justin Smith, the agency’s head of Somalia.

“The loss of innocent lives, especially children, is a great tragedy that underscores the urgent need for greater efforts face the dangers exposed by the weapons attack in Somalia,” he added.

UNMAS was established in 1997 and its mission goes beyond the removal of insurgents from the land in countries affected by armed conflict.

‘Hard reminder’

Actions also address the problem of UXO, which are weapons such as bombs, mortars, grenades and weapons that fail to detonate. In many countries they are an even greater threat to safety than landmines, according to its website.

UNMAS said the incident in Lower Shabelle is a great reminder of the An ongoing threat that civilians face, especially childrenin conflict-affected areas, and highlights the importance of quick and decisive action to reduce the risks associated with explosive remnants of war.

The UN, through UNMAS and its partners, has reiterated its commitment to work with the Government of Somalia, international organizations, and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen its operational efforts.

Increase joint efforts

“Together, we must increase our collective efforts eliminate risks exposed by weapons of mass destruction and protecting the lives of vulnerable people, especially children,” said Mr. Smith.

Since 1991, the UN has worked to advance peace and security in Somalia, where African peacekeepers support the country’s armed forces in their ongoing fight against Al-Shabaab terrorists.

Last Friday there was also a deadly attack in a hotel in the capital Mogadishu, which left 16 people dead, including an employee of the World Health Organization (WHO).

Malik Mamunur, WHO representative in Somalia said “We condemn all attacks on innocent civilians and humanitarian aid workers and express our deepest condolences to the families of all those killed in this attack.”