Impact of Landmines and ERW on Civilians in Hudaydah
Note: Numbers are as reported by multiple sources and have not been independently verified by UNMHA.
In June, UNMHA recorded six landmine and explosive remnants of war (ERW) incidents, resulting in eight civilian casualties in the Hudaydah governorate. This is a 50 per cent decrease compared to June 2022 and a 20 per cent decrease compared to the previous month. Casualties were primarily reported in Al Hali, Hays and At Tuhayta districts. There is a risk of increased landmine migration in the coming months, due to expected heavy flooding this time of year in the Hays, Al Khawkhah, and Mokha. During the previous year, seasonal flooding led to mines being moved long distances by flash floods, including anti-vehicle mines moved, further endangering civilians, livestock, and commercial traffic.
The Yemen Mine Action Coordination Center (YMACC) in Aden reported that in June stakeholders recorded 359,549 sqm of new hazardous areas, cleared 8,091 sqm, and destroyed 6 ERW in the Hudaydah governorate. The Yemen Executive Mine Action Centre (YEMAC) in Sana’a reported that it cleared 21,478 sqm and found, collected, and destroyed 44 landmines, one improvised explosive device, two cluster munitions, and 76 other ERW in the governorate.
Mine action advocacy and coordination activities
On 4 June, the Deputy Head of Mission met with the director of YMACC in Aden and discussed cooperation on mine action and possible Quick Impact Projects. On 6 June, UNMHA assessed that the Hudaydah International Airport apron area was free from explosive hazards, allowing the UNMHA helicopter to land on 7 June. Relevant information was shared with UN Country Team to facilitate humanitarian and development programming. On 13 June, UNMHA delegation, led by the Mine Action and Civil Affairs units, visited the YEMAC office in Hudaydah and conducted a needs assessment to identify opportunities for Quick Impact Projects. Moreover, UNMHA continues to coordinate with UN Country Team on various activities including delivering demining equipment to Hudaydah.