How Many Lives Were Lost in Unexploded Ordnance Incidents in Afghanistan Last Year?
Synopsis
In a tragic report, Afghanistan's National Disaster Management Authority revealed shocking statistics on unexploded ordnance incidents over the past year. With 87 lives lost and hundreds injured, this issue is a pressing concern for the country. The alarming rate of child victims underscores the urgent need for action.
Key Takeaways
87 people killed and 333 injured in unexploded ordnance incidents.
67.5% of victims were children .
Efforts by 155 demining teams are ongoing to clear land.
Over 105,000 square kilometers remain contaminated.
UNAMA ranks Afghanistan third globally for landmine casualties.
Kabul, Feb 4 (NationPress) In the past year, at least 87 individuals lost their lives and 333 others sustained injuries due to 193 incidents involving unexploded ordnance in Afghanistan, as reported by the Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority (ANDMA) on Wednesday.
Hafiz Mohammad Yousof Hamad, Head of the ANDMA Information Department, stated that the Mine Clearance Coordination Department, along with demining organizations, successfully cleared 58 kilometers of land from unexploded devices in 2025 and neutralized 24,720 mines, according to Pajhwok Afghan News.
Hamad emphasized that 67.5% of the victims were children, highlighting the grave threat posed by unexploded ordnance to the youngest and most vulnerable members of the Afghan population. He also mentioned that 155 demining teams are currently active in Afghanistan. Over the last year, these teams have conducted awareness training for more than 2.1 million people.
Despite these efforts, about 105,000 square kilometers of land in Afghanistan remains polluted with unexploded ordnance, as reported by Pajhwok Afghan News.
On Tuesday, the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) indicated that Afghanistan ranks third worldwide for casualties resulting from landmines and remnants of war.
UNAMA reported that nearly 80% of the victims are children, often injured or killed while playing or unwittingly handling unexploded ordnance. The agency urged for increased financial assistance to demining organizations striving to clear mines and educate the public about explosive risks, as noted by Afghanistan's leading news outlet, Khaama Press.
UNAMA revealed that clearance teams operate daily to eliminate explosive remnants while awareness campaigns are underway to minimize public exposure to such hazardous materials. The UN mission has recommended that individuals in Afghanistan refrain from touching suspicious items and instead report them to authorities to prevent further casualties.
Decades of conflict have left Afghanistan burdened with landmines and unexploded ordnance, posing ongoing threats to its populace.
Point of View
It is our responsibility to shed light on the dire situation in Afghanistan regarding unexploded ordnance. The continued loss of life, especially among children, calls for immediate action and international support for demining initiatives. We stand firmly with the people of Afghanistan in advocating for a safer environment free from the threats of landmines and unexploded remnants.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are unexploded ordnance (UXO)?
Unexploded ordnance (UXO) refers to explosive weapons that did not detonate when they were supposed to. This includes bombs, shells, grenades, and landmines that pose a serious risk to life and safety.
Why are children particularly affected by UXO?
Children are often drawn to the appearance of unexploded ordnance, mistaking it for toys or objects of curiosity, leading to tragic injuries or fatalities.
What efforts are being made to clear UXO in Afghanistan?
Demining teams are actively working to clear contaminated areas, conduct awareness training, and educate communities about the dangers of unexploded ordnance.
How can the international community help?
Increased financial support for demining organizations and awareness campaigns can significantly aid efforts to reduce casualties and clear affected areas.
What should individuals do if they find suspicious objects?
People are advised not to touch any suspicious items and to report them immediately to local authorities to prevent further injuries.
