UNOAU discusses AU support to mine action activities in Zimbabwe

17 Apr 2021

UNOAU discusses AU support to mine action activities in Zimbabwe

At the request of the African Union (AU), UNOAU participated in a meeting held virtually between a representative of the AU Mine Action Unit and the Zimbabwe Defence Attaché to Ethiopia to discuss ongoing and future support to Zimbabwe in the area of mine action on 17 April.

The Zimbabwean Attaché reminded of note verbales submitted to the AU requesting support towards Zimbabwe’s efforts to achieve its landmine ban treaty obligations by 2025 and highlighted a request for demining equipment in order to expand Zimbabwe’s demining activities. The AU representative underscored a commitment to move efforts forward within the AU strategic framework on mine action. He further agreed to support a proposed concept note on specific support options for Zimbabwe’s mine action activities. The participants agreed to hold an event, date to be confirmed, to focus attention on Zimbabwe’s activities and needs, with the additional aim of encouraging resource mobilization. UNOAU will support the drafting process of the above-mentioned concept note and will approach mine action partners to highlight the need for additional support.

Each year, the 4th of April marks the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action. This day highlights the important work being done to rid the world of Landmines, Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) and the increasing use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). In her message, SRSG Tetteh paid ‘tribute to the brave women and men who on a daily basis put their lives at risk; often working in dangerous and arduous conditions in demining areas to save the lives of others’.