Saudi Arabia spends over $241 million to implement de-mining projects in 3 countries

Saudi Arabia Invests Over $241 Million in Global Landmine Clearance Efforts Through KSrelief

RIYADH: Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes, Saudi Arabia—through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief)—has allocated more than $241 million to support life-saving de-mining initiatives in Yemen, Azerbaijan, and Iraq. These efforts are part of the Kingdom's broader mission to respond to global crises, reduce human suffering, and promote stability in conflict-affected regions.

Saudi Arabia, represented by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), has spent a total of $241,167,000 to implement de-mining projects in Yemen, Azerbaijan, and Iraq. PC: Saudi Gazette

A Strategic Humanitarian Vision

Driven by a deep sense of responsibility, Saudi Arabia continues to extend its hand to countries grappling with the devastating impact of landmines and unexploded ordnance. Through KSrelief, the Kingdom has funded and implemented various regional and international mine clearance operations aimed at protecting civilians, enhancing safety, and fostering long-term development.

The Masam Project: Saving Lives in Yemen

Launched in mid-2018, the Masam Landmine Clearance Project is one of KSrelief's flagship humanitarian programs. Designed to confront the widespread threat of landmines in Yemen, the initiative has made significant progress in making affected areas safer for the local population.

The project is a joint effort involving Saudi experts and international specialists, supported by a workforce of 550 personnel, including 32 specialized mine clearance teams. These teams operate across multiple Yemeni governorates, working diligently to identify and remove explosive threats planted indiscriminately during years of conflict.

As of now, Masam has successfully:

• Cleared over 486,108 landmines, unexploded ordnance, and explosive remnants of war.

• Cleared approximately 65.9 million cubic meters of land, making vast areas safe for civilians to return, rebuild, and resume normal life.

Comprehensive Support for Victims

Beyond de-mining, KSrelief has implemented a prosthetics program in Yemen to support survivors of landmine explosions. The program has transformed the lives of 25,340 individuals by providing high-quality prosthetic limbs, rehabilitation services, and training for local medical staff.

With an investment totaling $39.5 million, this program ensures:

• Sustainable access to prosthetic services.

• Skill development for local healthcare professionals.

• Social and economic reintegration of victims into their communities.

KSrelief's support extends to broader health and social services, providing a holistic approach to healing and rebuilding for those affected by mines. However, the work is not without peril—approximately 30 brave workers have tragically lost their lives since the project's inception due to explosions encountered during clearance operations.

Expanding Humanitarian Outreach to Azerbaijan and Iraq

KSrelief's demining efforts are not confined to Yemen. In January 2024, the center launched a financial grant program in Azerbaijan to support mine clearance operations. These grants aim to accelerate reconstruction in war-torn regions, facilitate the return of displaced families, and reduce the environmental and physical dangers posed by landmines.

The initiative is especially focused on:

• Protecting civilians, including women and children.

• Supporting safe resettlement in cleared zones.

• Building local capacities to manage and prevent future risks.

In April 2024, KSrelief also expanded its humanitarian footprint in Iraq, funding surveys and clearance operations across several governorates affected by conflict. These efforts are geared toward:

• Creating mine-free zones for Iraqi citizens.

• Enabling safe agricultural and livestock activities.

• Supporting economic recovery and sustainable development.

Marking International Mine Awareness Day

On April 4, KSrelief observed the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, an annual event that highlights the global effort to eliminate landmines and the importance of protecting lives from these hidden dangers.

Through this observance, the center:

• Reaffirmed its commitment to mine action.

• Called for increased international collaboration.

• Highlighted the need for capacity-building in affected regions.

• Honored the memory of those who lost their lives while working to secure others’.

A Lifesaving Mission with Global Impact

Saudi Arabia’s investment in demining is more than just a financial commitment—it’s a testament to the Kingdom’s humanitarian values and dedication to global peace and security. Through KSrelief’s strategic projects, thousands of lives have been saved, communities have been restored, and future generations have been granted the opportunity to live free from the fear of landmines.

As the Kingdom continues its global humanitarian mission, these efforts underscore a powerful message: that peace, stability, and safety are rights every human being deserves, regardless of where they live.