Combating the Threat of Unexploded Ordnance: The impacts of DRC’s EORE Sessions in South Sudan
In the war-torn states of South Sudan, the remnants of conflict pose a persistent threat to the safety and well-being of communities.
Posted on 29 Aug 2024
Unexploded ordnances (UXOs), including landmines and other explosive remnants of war (ERW), continue to endanger lives long after the cessation of hostilities.
To address this critical issue, Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE) sessions have emerged as a vital tool in mitigating the risks associated with these deadly remnants.
DRC’s Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding Sector, with funding from the German Federal Foreign Office, has made significant strides in this regard, reaching out to 29,826 people in the areas of Akobo, Magwi, and Maban by August this year.
The scope of the problem
South Sudan’s continuous protracted conflicts leave behind a legacy of explosive hazards. UXOs litter farmlands, roads, and residential areas, rendering large swathes of land dangerous and unusable.
These hidden dangers continue to claim lives, maim civilians, and hinder socio-economic development. The presence of UXOs affects all aspects of life, from daily activities like farming, grazing, fishing, and fetching water to the broader challenges of rebuilding infrastructure and fostering community development.
In areas like Akobo, there have been cases of remnants of war found in the river, killing animals on grazing land and endangering members of the community.
DRC’s humanitarian disarmament and peacebuilding sector
DRC's Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding Sector has been at the forefront of addressing the UXO threat in Magwi, Akobo and Maban.
With the support of the German Federal Foreign Office, DRC has implemented a comprehensive EORE program aimed at educating communities and creating awareness about the risks posed by UXOs and how to safely avoid them.
The program's primary objective, conducted within communities, schools, churches, and through local radio broadcasts, is to reduce the incidence of UXO-related injuries and fatalities through targeted awareness campaigns and community engagement.
Achievements to date
As of June, this year, DRC's EORE program has reached 29,826 people in the regions of Akobo, Magwi, and Maban.
This achievement highlights the program's extensive reach and the critical importance of its mission. The sessions are designed to cater to diverse audiences, including children, adults, and community leaders, ensuring that the message of safety and caution permeates every level of society.
The Importance of EORE Sessions
EORE sessions are instrumental in creating awareness about the dangers of UXOs and equipping communities with the knowledge needed to stay safe. These sessions typically cover the following key areas:
Identification of UXOs: Participants are taught how to recognize different types of UXOs and ERW. Visual aids, such as pictures and diagrams, are used to help identify common explosive devices.
Safety protocols: Communities learn what actions to take if they encounter a UXO. This includes maintaining a safe distance, marking the location, and reporting the finding to the appropriate authorities.
Risk behavior avoidance: EORE sessions emphasize behaviors that can mitigate the risk of encountering UXOs, such as sticking to known paths and avoiding suspicious objects or areas that may be contaminated.
Emergency response: Participants are informed about the procedures to follow in the event of an explosion, including first aid measures and how to seek medical assistance.
Data collection: EORE sessions often include components of data collection, helping mine action organizations gather crucial information about the locations and types of explosive hazards.
Safe land use: Educating communities about which areas are safe for farming, grazing, and other activities helps protect their livelihoods.
Sustainable living: Preventing accidents ensures that community members can continue their daily activities without disruption, supporting economic
Community involvement and empowerment
A crucial aspect of the EORE program is community involvement. DRC works closely with local leaders and community-based organizations to tailor the sessions to the specific needs and contexts of each community.
This collaborative approach ensures that the education provided is relevant and resonates with the participants in the different communities. By empowering local communities with knowledge and skills, the EORE program fosters a culture of safety and vigilance that can significantly reduce the impact of UXOs.
Briefs
The states of Akobo, Magwi, and Maban are some of the areas among others affected by the legacy of conflict, making them focal points for DRC’s EORE efforts.
Akobo: One of the states marred by inter-communal violence and past conflicts, EORE sessions have been critical in restoring a sense of safety among the inhabitants.
The program has helped reduce the number of UXO-related accidents and enabled residents to resume farming and other daily activities with greater confidence.
Magwi: Located in the southeastern part of South Sudan, has seen significant progress due to the EORE initiatives.
The sessions have reached schools, marketplaces, and community gatherings, ensuring a broad dissemination of life-saving information. The reduction in UXO incidents in Magwi stands as a testament to the effectiveness of these educational efforts.
Maban: Home to many internally displaced persons (IDPs), the threat of UXOs is particularly acute.
DRC EORE program plays a crucial role in safeguarding the lives of IDPs EORE program supports humanitarian workers by ensuring that areas are safe for the delivery of aid and services.
By educating the community, DRC facilitates a safer environment, enabling aid organizations to operate more effectively and reach those in need without undue risk.
Challenges and future directions
Despite the considerable success of the EORE program, challenges remain. The vast and often inaccessible terrain of South Sudan, coupled with ongoing instability in certain areas, poses logistical difficulties.
Cultural and language barriers: Diverse Populations: Different languages, dialects, and cultural norms can make it challenging to create effective and universally understandable educational materials.
Mistrust: In some states, there may be a mistrust of outsiders, including educators from other states of South Sudan, which can hinder the delivery of EORE program
Additionally, sustained funding and resources are essential to maintaining and expanding the reach of EORE initiatives.
Looking ahead, DRC aims to build on its achievements by incorporating innovative methods such as digital platforms and mobile applications to disseminate risk education.
Furthermore, strengthening partnerships with local governments, international organizations, and other stakeholders will be key to enhancing the program’s impact.
Conclusion
The Explosive Ordnance Risk Education sessions conducted by the DRC Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding Sector have proven to be a crucial intervention in creating awareness within communities of the dangers posed by unexploded ordnances in South Sudan.
By reaching out to 29,826 people in Akobo, Magwi, and Maban, the program has made significant strides in safeguarding lives and fostering a safer environment for communities.
Continued support and innovation will be essential to sustain these efforts and ultimately achieve a UXO-free South Sudan.
Contact
Alexander Tristan DAVEY | Country Director | The Link House Block 3K South, Thongping Juba - South Sudan | [email protected]
