UK allots £7m for landmine clearance in Ukraine, Afghanistan

KABUL (Pajhwok): The United Kingdom has allocated £7 million to support the Hazardous Area Life-support Organisation (Halo Trust) in its landmine clearance efforts in Ukraine and Afghanistan, according to a media report.

The funding will allow the charity to continue its work making land safe for agriculture in Ukraine and restoring essential services disrupted by landmines in Afghanistan, the Standard reported.

Specifically, £4.3 million will be directed towards mine action in Ukraine, and £3 million will be used to support efforts in Afghanistan.

The funding will extend Halo Trust’s operations in both countries for an additional year, from April 2025 to March 2026.

Development minister Anneliese Dodds visited the Halo Trust base in Thornhill, Dumfries and Galloway, on Wednesday, where she witnessed the organisation’s efforts and how it also creates jobs in the local community.

She said, “No one should have to live in fear of being killed or maimed by a single wrong step. These deadly devices sow fear and destruction for decades, and organisations like the Halo Trust do vital work in clearing them.

I’m proud to announce this support for the Halo Trust to continue its life-saving work, removing these deadly devices from some of the world’s most hazardous areas.”

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