37 years after independence, Zimbabwe is still worried about landmines that have not been de-mined especially along the Zimbabwe-Mozambique border areas.
Officiating at the 37th anniversary of the Defence Force Day, President Mugabe said although consented efforts have been made in trying to demine the landmines, more effort still needs to be done in as far as addressing the challenge is concerned.
President Mugabe said a team of the Defence Forces Corp of Engineers have been conducting de-mining activities in the Dumisa and Gwaivhi areas on the South Eastern Mozambique Border.
Female soldiers showcasing their skills during the Defence Forces Day at the National Sports Stadium on Tuesday: Pic Credit- Lovejoy Mtongwiza
“Much needs to be done in de-mining landmines on the Mukumbura, Chisecha and Rushinga areas. We have been getting more support from the Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) which is working on the Cecil Kopje and Forbes Border Post minefields.
“We commend the help we are receiving but there is much work to be done before we can declare the areas landmines free but we are happy with the significant progress that has been made to this date,” said President Mugabe.
Zimbabwe, as a state party to the Ottawa Convention on the Prohibition of Anti-Personnel Landmines, is expected to comply with the 2025 deadline for clearing all land mined areas.
“To meet the deadline, the Ministry of Defence recently enlisted the services of two more International De-mining Non-Governmental Organisations, Mines Advisory Group (MAG) and APOPO.
“The two organisations are expected to start operations before the end of 2017, and it is our fervent hope that their coming on board will enhance our chances of meeting the world deadline, “added President Mugabe.
Landmines kill more than 20 people each year and President Mugabe assured that his government will continue to monitor activities within the land mined areas in order to minimize unnecessary loss of life.
The Defence forces have also been working in reducing illegal cross border activities and the smuggling of contraband into the country.
