April 4th is International Mine Awareness Day that is observed annually to reflect on the devastating effects landmines and unexploded ordnance have on land, communities and livelihoods, whilst focusing on the efforts made so far to clear contaminated areas for the future safety of those at risk.

Are you familiar with the work that Combat Stress does? For over 100 years this charity has provided assistance to veterans from every service and conflict. Read more here to find out about this charity and why it is so close to Sean, a Trainer/Mentor for TDI.

For over 100 years, Combat Stress has assisted former servicemen and women dealing with issues including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression. Today, the charity provides “specialist treatment and support for veterans from every service and conflict, focusing on those with complex mental health issues.”

For over a decade, TDI has conducted clearance activities throughout South Sudan. In early 2020, TDI began clearing contaminated minefields in Mabior-Anguei, north of the country. Numerous incidents relating to unexploded ordnance (UXO) had taken place here, claiming livestock and wounding community members.

Meet Tom, an orange Labrador originally from the United Kingdom who worked for TDI in Mali and then retired with his new family in Zimbabwe in 2018.  Tom struggled to adapt to the loud environment in which he was based in Mali so was retired as a working dog. It was not long before he was on his way to his new forever home.

Say hello to Marina, one of TDI’s new Kennel Master and Dog Trainers in Mali. Her career working with dogs spans almost thirty years, beginning in 1990. She has worked with dogs in a range of countries including South Africa, Afghanistan and Iraq before joining TDI in Mali in early 2020.