MAG’s emergency response project for Gaza is contributing to the post-conflict reconstruction efforts by ensuring as safe an environment as possible for the local population and development agencies.
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A MAG UXO specialist preparing to defuse a bomb. |
From 31 January to 6 February, MAG:
• Assessed nine schools for the presence of unexploded ordnance (UXO) at the request of UNICEF and UNDP, and declared free of UXO
• Held four mine- and UXO-awareness briefings at schools
• Conducted a joint inspection with the UN of a number of large aircraft bombs, high explosive and smoke-generating incendiary (white phosphorous) projectiles gathered in an area in Gaza. The white phosphorous was found in close proximity to approximately 7,500kg of high explosive and was a potential risk that could result in a detonation in the centre of the city. The white phosphorous was safely removed and stored. Plans are underway to ensure the safe removal of UXO
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White phosphorous wedges recovered by MAG from the roof of a school. Children can be seen in the schoolyard below. |
A paramedic and three additional UXO specialists deployed to Gaza on 5 February, making a total of four deployed to Gaza to work with the UN and other agencies to establish the extent of UXO contamination.
MAG’s emergency response project is supporting the post-conflict reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts by:
• Working as an implementing partner of UNMAS to identify and prioritise UXO-affected communities for emergency clearance activities
• Reducing the threat of death and injury posed by UXO to communities and humanitarian agencies working in Gaza
• Supporting provision of safe access for internally displaced people/communities and humanitarian aid agencies travelling to, and within, communities
If you would like to support MAG's life-saving work around the world, please click below to donate safely and securely online – a small donation can make a huge difference.
More than 90 per cent of MAG's income is spent directly on our clearance programmes worldwide.
MAG would like to express its gratitude to the following donors for supporting to the Gaza emergency response project: Department for International Development (UK); United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA).
Links:
- Emergency response in Gaza: update
- Audio: Saving lives in Gaza
- MAG responds to Gaza crisis
- DFID website [external link]
- UNMAS website [external link]
- UNOCHA website [external link]
9 February 09
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