The War Has Ended But Landmines Still Continue TO Kill Children

Over the past decades there have been hundreds of thousands of people who have been injured by landmines. The majority of children injured die from the results of the blast - mainly because of their small bodies and closer proximity to the centre of the blast.


Those people who survive the initial blast of a mine will most likely require amputations, long hospital stays and extensive rehabilitation.

Countries that have a significant landmine problem are usually also suffering many other major problems. They mostly have a poor economy; their social and economic infrastructure has been torn apart by the ongoing fighting; educational programmes have mostly ceased and professional people have long since left.

Military hardware is in the hands of armed gangs, poorly trained soldiers or even children. Among the weapons that remain when the war ends there may be thousands, if not millions, of anti-personnel mines. Health care is largely dependent on a variety of foreign aid agencies whose work is also hampered by the presence of mines.

Many victims are alone in isolated locations when they are injured. They may have been collecting wood or thatch or herding animals. They can lie for hours waiting for help, with shattered bones and severe bleeding. First the rescuers must negotiate the minefield before they give any support to a victim. Once basic first aid has been applied evacuation may then involve a bumpy ride through mountains or jungle that may take days. ICRC statistics claim that only 25% of mine victims arrive at hospital within 6 hours of being injured with 15% having to travel for more than 3 days before they reach a hospital.

By Samod Biobaku
simplysamad@yahoo.com