Camel herders in Marib, Yemen, face significant risks from landmines as they attempt to reclaim their nomadic lifestyle disrupted by war. With dangers persisting even in quieter areas, these herders are forced to confine their livestock to prevent fatalities. Despite ongoing humanitarian efforts, casualties from landmines remain prevalent, highlighting the urgent need for attention and action.

In Yemen’s Marib province, a significant threat looms over camel herders due to the presence of landmines. Displaced by ongoing conflict, the Bedouins aspire to restore their traditional nomadic lifestyle; however, locating safe grazing land has become increasingly treacherous. “Grazing was more abundant further south, but those areas are infested with landmines. Whenever one of the animals heads south, a mine explodes under it,” explained Ogaim Suhail, a camel herder.

Since 2015, Yemen has been embroiled in a conflict between Iran-aligned Houthis and a Saudi-led military coalition. Although the frontline has remained largely stable for years, the United Nations cautions against potential violence resuming, particularly in light of recent global conflicts.

Landmines continue to pose a deadly risk, as evidenced by a 2024 Human Rights Watch report, which states that such devices have been responsible for civilian casualties even in previously non-active fighting areas. “Landmines are our first problem in war areas, near the Houthis,” noted camel herder Saleh al-Qadry.

Supporting these claims, a local human rights organization, Mwatana, recorded 537 instances of landmine deployment from January 2016 to March 2024. A Houthi Defence Ministry official attributed these mines to mercenaries, stating they were utilized to hinder the advancement of Houthi forces in Marib.

According to the United Nations Development Programme, unexploded ordnance presents a grave danger to millions in Yemen, particularly in Marib, where herders live in constant fear of landmines. Compelled to restrict their movements, herders like Saeed Onaig express concern: “If we release them, they may head towards the landmines and step on them, causing them to explode.”

In summary, camel herders in Yemen’s Marib province are confronted with the lethal threat of landmines, which complicates their struggle to reclaim a nomadic lifestyle after displacement due to war. Despite the absence of major escalations, the danger posed by unexploded ordnance remains ever-present, underscoring the dire humanitarian situation faced by these communities. Acknowledging the impact of the ongoing conflict, it is critical to address the risks associated with landmines for both civilians and livestock in Yemen.

Original Source: www.straitstimes.com

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