Mines Awareness and Victim Rehabilitation, Vietnam
Location: Vietnam
Client: Government and NGO
Outline: Although it had been nearly 25 years since the end of the Vietnam war, it was estimated that there existed more than six million unexploded mines and bombs contaminating the land.
We were asked to develop a regional Mines Awareness and Victim Rehabilitation programme directed at the rural population. To create an effective programme, it was necessary for us to effect inter-agency co-operation and coordination between government initiatives and the non-governmental organisation-led clearance activity that had already started.
We assessed areas known to have contained mines and bombs by location and density and recommended the best place to build Mines Awareness and Victim Rehabilitation training facilities. We established the centres, produced the necessary educational materials and conducted classes for the local population to help prevent further death and injuries.
Outcome: Even with the best facilities and expertise this work will always be difficult and dangerous, but with the right knowledge and skills in place, safe and productive land can be returned to farmers and communities.