One of the TDI teams in South Sudan found themselves in the spotlight when they were asked to clear an area in Pariang in the midst of construction of an oil field. Community confidence was lost while residents waited in anticipation for TDI to reach the area. Until the area was assessed and cleared, construction of the oil field was halted and the day-to-day routines of the community came to a standstill.

Safety is often a struggle in many parts of South Sudan. The journey from Wau to Bisellia is no different, This route is known for its threats to security, ambushes and regular bouts of fighting. In order to protect civilian safety and assist the movement of humanitarian support, TDI have been conducting clearance activities along this route since November 2018.

Every year on 4 April, the world celebrates International Day of Mine Awareness and Mine Action with commemorative events. The theme for the events this year was “Safe Ground – Safe Home”. TDI took part in the celebrations held in several counties within South Sudan, continuing to raise awareness of the dangers associated with landmines and UXO.

To wrap up a month of focusing on staff from our various field projects, we would like to introduce Arnel. Born and raised in the Philippines, Arnel has worked for TDI since 2017 and has developed himself into two roles since joining the EDD project in South Sudan.

This week we introduce you to three women who form part of a TDI Multi-task Team in South Sudan. With their own areas of expertise, these hardworking women all play a crucial role in the clearance efforts taking place in the country.

Roshan, a qualified Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Operator, began his career in humanitarian Mine Action in 2002. He is the current TDI Operations Manager for Sudan and South Sudan, and is responsible for all operations and technical activities on his project.

This month, we introduce you to various staff from the field. Meet Fatou, the TDI Medic, currently based in the Central African Republic. She joined the Mine Action industry in 2004, initially deployed in her home country. Since then, she has gained work experience in many other African countries.

From once living in fear, the market county of Ariath is finally experiencing some relief. A once heavily contaminated area, clearance work currently being conducted by TDI Multi-Task Teams is bringing about positive change in the local community. By becoming aware of these objects, along with the clearance efforts, the residents of Ariath can look forward to a safer future.

Since 2016, TDI teams have conducted surveys and clearance efforts in the DRC. Each day unearths a new item of unexploded ordnance and the prevalence of these munitions tragically cost the lives of many civilians each year. Clearance efforts are welcomed to reduce the occurence of accidents associated with these devices.

At approximately 7.30pm on 12th November 2018, the TDI compound in Gao, Mali, was atatcked by a vehicle-borne IED, causing significant damage.