August's Iraq programme report:
MAG continues to implement operations both within Iraq and along the border with Turkey and Iran, despite ongoing instability.
MAG returned two cleared minefields to communities in Soran (Erbil governate) during August. The cleared land has facilitated access to an orchard and the building of an irrigation channel for agricultural purposes.
Mine Action Teams (MATs) also started work in a minefield in Choman close to the major road route to the Iranian border, reducing the risk to vehicles and passengers, while three MATs continued work in high priority minefields in Mergasor and Sidekan. Clearance will assist rural communities to revive their economic base by releasing agricultural land.
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| MAG deminers set up their equipment before starting work in Kirkuk governorate |
In Dahuk, MATs responded to high priority tasks identified by MAG Community Liaison (CL) teams through consultation with local communities. One team conducted clearance at a site in Demka village along the Turkish border, to support conflict recovery in Internally Displaced People (IDP) communities. A second team worked at a minefield situated beside a school for IDP in Bachika.
Twelve MATs undertook minefield and battle area clearance in Sulimaniyah and Kirkuk governorates. Work was completed on three minefields during August and three further minefields were opened. MAG’s work along the former Green Line continues to create a safer environment for conflict affected communities.
In addition, mechanical demining teams were deployed across northern Iraq to support MATs working manually and improve the efficiency of operations. They prepared 134,393 sq/m of land in support of clearance operations. In Gir Chapa, in Mosul governorate, teams cleared a minefield to support a bridge reconstruction project.
Small Arms and Light Weapons
With funding granted from the Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement, U.S. Department of State, MAG has established a mobile small arms and light weapons (SALW) destruction project - click here for more information: Mobile SALW destruction project launched.
» To read the full monthly report of MAG's operations in Iraq click below:
Iraq Programme Update - August 2007
» MAG would like to express gratitude to the following donors to the Iraq programme:
Belgian Government; Irish Aid; Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of the Netherlands; Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement, US Department of State; SIDA (Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency); Trocaire.
Related links:
MAG's Iraq programme
Iraq photo gallery
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