Rashad Al-Alimi Awards Project Masam and National Mine Action Program for Landmine Clearance Efforts
In a remarkable display of recognition for humanitarian efforts, Yemen’s President Rashad Al-Alimi presented Saudi Arabia’s Project Masam with the prestigious Medal of Bravery. This award was in acknowledgment of the project’s relentless work to clear Yemen of landmines and remnants of war that posed a grave threat to civilians.
Al-Alimi, who serves as the chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council and commander-in-chief of the armed forces in Yemen, also honored the country’s National Mine Action Program for their crucial role in this initiative. The medal was presented to Brig. Gen. Amin Al-Aqili, the program’s director, alongside Ousama Al-Gosaibi, the managing director of Project Masam.
Recognition for Sacrifice and Dedication
On June 26, 2023, President Al-Alimi issued two decisions to commend both Project Masam and the National Mine Action Program for their unwavering commitment to clearing Yemeni lands of deadly explosives planted by Houthi militias. The recognition also paid tribute to the martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety and security of the Yemeni people and future generations.
Expressing his gratitude, Al-Gosaibi dedicated the award to the government of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their steadfast support of Yemen through various humanitarian projects. Since its inception in 2018, Project Masam has cleared over 55 million square meters of land and removed a staggering 436,376 mines, improvised explosive devices, and unexploded ordnance.
Humanitarian Mission Continues
Overseen by the Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief, the demining operations conducted by Project Masam have been vital in regions like Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale, and Saada. These efforts have been crucial in safeguarding civilians, especially vulnerable groups like children, women, and the elderly.
Despite the risks involved, Al-Gosaibi affirmed Project Masam’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling its humanitarian mission. The project’s workers have faced significant dangers, with 33 individuals losing their lives and 47 others sustaining injuries while clearing mines.
Continued Support and Impact
The National Mine Action Program has played a pivotal role in removing over 800,000 mines, contributing to a total of more than 1.2 million mines and unexploded ordnance eradicated in Yemen since 2015. The Saudi initiative not only provides training to local demining engineers but also equips them with modern tools and offers support to those injured by explosive devices.
In a region where over 5 million people have been displaced due to the conflict, the efforts of Project Masam are crucial in clearing villages, roads, and schools to ensure the safe movement of civilians and the delivery of essential humanitarian aid.