KABUL, 2 April 2024 - An old land mine has killed nine children in eastern Afghanistan on Sunday, according to local authorities.

The children - five boys and four girls, all aged between 5 and 10 - found the decades old mine close to their village in Ghazni province and were playing with it when the tragedy took place.

Arshad Malik, Country Director for Save the Children in Afghanistan said:  

"Afghanistan is one of the most mine-contaminated countries in the world with two thirds of its districts affected by unexploded ordnance. This heartbreaking news is a stark reminder of the persistent dangers posed by remnants of war. 

Due to their natural curiosity, and the pressure many are under to collect scrap metal and contribute to their families’ household incomes, children are the most affected by explosive remnants of war. Around 60 people – mostly children – are killed or maimed every month. The international community and the de facto authorities must prioritise removing explosive remnants of war and other hazards.” 

Save the Children and its partners have programmes in 18 provinces in Afghanistan. As part of its child protection programming, the organisation raises awareness of the risks posed by unexposed ordnance and equips children with the skills and knowledge to protect themselves and others from harm. 

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For further enquiries please contact:

• Rachel Thompson rachel.thompson@savethechildren.org

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