The rural population of Bai region, Somalia, was at risk for coming into contact with landmines planted during former conflicts. Although United Nations Somalia II (UNOSOM II) was mandated to clear landmines, their efforts concentrated mainly upon roads and airports, opening access for relief supplies to flow. This left a number of areas of rural Bai region with active minefields, mostly unidentified and unmarked (Africa Rights & Mines Advisory Group, 1993). Civilian casualty rates, although low, were consistent, with children being a significant proportion of the injured.
Due to limited resources, a largely illiterate population, great distances, and an unstable security situation, unique problems presented obstacles to interventions. These difficulties were dealt with by educational interventions, using local resources to implement a landmine awareness program. This program was low cost, used little technology, and was appropriate for the target population. In the months following the intervention, the number of landmine casualties appearing at the regional hospital declined considerably.
Learning Objectives: 1. Describe the impact of landmines on the rural population of Southern Somalia. 2. Discuss a unique approach to consider in the delivery of education to this population
Keywords: Landmines, Education
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.