Over 1200 Somalis killed or injured by IEDs, remnants of war in 2022-UN

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: ­More than 1,200 Somalis were killed or injured by explosive ordnances including land mines, IEDs and explosives remnants of war, the UN has said.

The UN released the figures in marking the International day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action. Previous UN reports have indicated that Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) have become the most effective weapon of war by the militant group Al-Shabaab.

UN Secretary General’s Deputy Representative for Somalia Anita Kiki Gbeho said the toll of explosive ordnance on Somalis was ‘too high a price to pay’ noting that the UN was committed to ‘working with Somali authorities and local and international partners to protect civilians and foster peace, security and development in Somalia.’

“On this International Day, we especially recognise the courage and dedication of the mine action operators and their commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for all Somalis,” the UN official said.

The UN said it was working with the Somali government at the national and state level to mitigate the impact of explosive ordnance.

“The support includes the provision of explosive ordnance risk reduction, survey and clearance activities, and advocacy and capacity development initiatives to promote adherence to international legal instruments.”