Introduction
In the heart of South Sudan, where conflict and instability have marred the landscape for years, a quiet yet crucial battle is being fought. This is the battle against explosive ordnance—mines, unexploded bombs, and other remnants of war that threaten the lives of civilians and hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid. At the forefront of this battle are the deminers, unsung heroes working tirelessly to clear these deadly hazards. Among them is Salila Abdulai Wani, one of the 37 women deminers working with the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) in South Sudan. This article provides a window into the daily life of deminers like Salila, exploring their vital role in peacekeeping and the impact of their work on communities.
Background: The Crucial Role of Deminers
Since its inception in 2004, UNMAS South Sudan has been a cornerstone of peacekeeping efforts in the country. The organization has played a pivotal role in clearing explosive ordnance from conflict-affected areas, enabling safe passage for civilians, peacekeepers, and humanitarian workers. Over the years, UNMAS South Sudan has successfully destroyed more than 1.2 million pieces of explosive ordnance, a testament to the dedication and bravery of its deminers.
The threat of explosive ordnance is not merely a matter of safety but a significant barrier to development and stability. Mines and unexploded ordnance can render vast areas of land unusable, disrupt agricultural activities, and impede the movement of aid and relief workers. By clearing these hazards, deminers are not only saving lives but also facilitating the rebuilding and recovery of communities devastated by conflict.
A Day in the Life: Following Salila Abdulai Wani
Salila Abdulai Wani begins her day before dawn. As a deminer with UNMAS, her workday is governed by precision, patience, and unwavering focus. The early start allows her and her team to make the most of the cooler morning hours, which are crucial for safety and efficiency.
Morning Routine and Preparation
Salila’s morning begins with a thorough briefing. Each day, deminers review their objectives, assess the safety protocols, and discuss any new intelligence regarding the locations they will be working in. This is a critical part of the process, ensuring that every team member is aware of potential risks and is equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge.
Following the briefing, Salila dons her protective gear: a heavy-duty helmet, a visor to shield her face, and a body suit designed to protect against shrapnel and blasts. The gear is essential for safety but can be cumbersome in the sweltering heat. Despite the discomfort, Salila and her colleagues wear it with pride, understanding the gravity of their mission.
On the Field: Clearing Explosive Ordnance
Once on-site, Salila’s work is both meticulous and intense. She and her team use specialized equipment, including metal detectors and manual probing tools, to locate and identify explosive ordnance. Each step is measured and cautious, as the risk of detonation is ever-present.
The process involves clearing a grid section by section. Salila carefully scans the ground, listening for any signals from the metal detectors and visually inspecting the area. When a suspicious object is found, the team must assess whether it is a live explosive device. If so, they must safely neutralize it using controlled detonation methods or remove it for further handling by specialists.
Salila’s role requires not only technical skills but also immense psychological resilience. The constant awareness of danger, combined with the responsibility of ensuring the safety of her team and the community, demands a high level of mental fortitude. Her dedication is driven by a deep commitment to making South Sudan a safer place for its residents.
Interactions with the Community
Throughout her day, Salila interacts with local communities affected by the conflict. These interactions are crucial for building trust and cooperation. Residents often provide valuable information about suspected minefields or recent incidents involving explosive ordnance. By engaging with the community, Salila helps to foster a sense of security and encourages local involvement in the peacekeeping process.
In some cases, Salila and her team conduct educational sessions for local schools and community groups, teaching them about the dangers of unexploded ordnance and how to stay safe. These outreach efforts are essential for preventing accidents and ensuring that the community is aware of the risks and how to report potential hazards.
End of the Day: Reflection and Debriefing
As the sun sets, Salila and her team conclude their work for the day. They return to their base, where they undergo a debriefing session to review their progress and discuss any challenges encountered. This reflection period is an opportunity to assess the effectiveness of their operations and to plan for the next day.
The debriefing also includes a time for Salila and her colleagues to unwind and support each other. The nature of their work can be emotionally taxing, and having a supportive team environment is crucial for maintaining morale and mental well-being.
The Broader Impact of Demining Efforts
Salila Abdulai Wani and her fellow deminers are part of a broader effort to restore stability and facilitate development in South Sudan. Their work not only saves lives but also has far-reaching impacts on the country’s recovery and rebuilding process.
By clearing landmine-infested areas, deminers make it possible for agricultural activities to resume, which is vital for food security and economic recovery. They also enable the construction of infrastructure, such as roads and schools, which are essential for long-term development.
The safe passage provided by demining efforts allows humanitarian aid to reach those in need more efficiently. This is particularly important in a country where access to basic services and relief supplies can be severely restricted by the presence of explosive ordnance.
The Role of Women in Demining
The inclusion of women in demining operations, like Salila, represents a significant advancement in peacekeeping efforts. Women bring unique perspectives and skills to the field, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the operations. Their presence also challenges traditional gender roles and demonstrates that women can excel in high-risk, high-skill professions.
Women deminers often serve as role models for other women in conflict-affected areas, inspiring them to pursue careers in fields traditionally dominated by men. Their involvement in demining also underscores the importance of gender equality in peacekeeping and development efforts.
Conclusion
The work of deminers in South Sudan, exemplified by the dedication of Salila Abdulai Wani, is a testament to the courage and commitment required to address the dangers of explosive ordnance. Their efforts are vital in creating a safer environment for communities, facilitating humanitarian aid, and supporting the country’s recovery and development. As we recognize the bravery and contributions of these unsung heroes, it is clear that their role is indispensable to the success of UN Peacekeeping missions and to the broader goal of achieving lasting peace and stability in conflict-affected regions.
