Southern town celebrates end of demining

In July 2008, Kapoeta became the first town in Southern Sudan where all exit routes were fully cleared of mines. Demining work started in June 2005 and covered 283,000 sqkm.

“Landmines [will] be a problem for Southern Sudan for many years to come,” David Gressly, the regional coordinator for the UN Mission in Sudan, said adding that the UN would resume demining following the rainy season in October after being suspended in June. Residents of Kapoeta, however, will not be waiting for the deminers any more.

According to local officials, landmines have continued to hold back Southern Sudan’s potential, especially in places like Kapoeta, despite the end of Sudan’s 21-year civil war in January 2005.

[Full report: http://www.irinnews.org/Report.aspx?ReportId=80636]