6.4 million Afghans at risk from landmines, most of them children
HALO Trust urges global support as Afghanistan remains one of world’s most mine-contaminated countries despite decades of clearance efforts
KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — Over 6 million people in Afghanistan remain at risk from landmines and unexploded ordnance, with children accounting for the majority of victims, according to a new report by the HALO Trust, one of the world’s leading demining organizations.
As reported by Khaama Press, the UK-based group warned that Afghanistan is still among the most heavily mine-contaminated countries, decades after conflicts first seeded the landscape with deadly explosives. The HALO Trust estimates that 6.4 million Afghans live under direct threat from explosive remnants of war.
In a statement, the organization urged the international community to continue funding mine clearance in the country. “This must not become a forgotten humanitarian issue,” said Farid Hamayoun, a senior official with the HALO Trust, calling for sustained global attention to protect vulnerable civilians.
The group said that children are disproportionately affected, making up around 80 percent of victims. In many rural areas, unexploded ordnance resembles toys or household items, leading to frequent accidents involving minors who lack access to safe play spaces.
Since the start of its operations in Afghanistan, the HALO Trust has cleared more than 1,400 square kilometers of land, directly benefitting 17 million people. Cleared areas have enabled farming, education, and basic infrastructure to return to communities once deemed unsafe.
Despite the progress, mine-related casualties continue to be reported in several provinces. Aid agencies and demining experts warn that without renewed international commitment, ongoing clearance efforts could stall, endangering lives and slowing recovery in an already fragile state.
“With Afghanistan facing deep political and economic uncertainty, mine clearance is not just a safety measure — it’s a prerequisite for long-term national stability and recovery,” said Hamayoun.
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