Prince Harry advocates for landmine clearance in Angola

Earlier this week, Prince Harry traveled to Angola to raise awareness for landmine clearance, revisiting a significant trip made by his mother, Princess Diana, in 1997. During this visit, the Duke of Sussex engaged in discussions with Angolan President João Lourenço regarding ongoing demining efforts in the country. The legacy of landmines stems from Angola's brutal 27-year civil war, resulting in countless casualties and injuries as explosive devices left behind continue to pose a threat to civilians. The Halo Trust charity, which Prince Harry supports as its patron, has been instrumental in working towards a mine-free Angola by 2025. Princess Diana's impactful visit in January 1997 raised global awareness about the dangers of landmines. Captured in iconic photographs, she walked through an active minefield, significantly influencing public opinion and contributing to the eventual treaty banning landmines. Just months after Diana's passing, this treaty was ratified, emphasizing her lasting impact on the cause. Prince Harry’s recent visit not only honors his mother’s legacy but also aims to galvanize further international support for demining initiatives in Angola, underlining the importance of continuing this vital work. Harry's experience in Angola is not his first interaction aimed at promoting landmine clearance. Previously, in 2019, he visited the country, where he participated in demining activities and reinforced his commitment to supporting efforts to remove remnants of past conflicts. During his latest trip, he reiterated a vision of a mine-free Angola, thereby expressing a readiness to invest significantly in ongoing projects through the Halo Trust for the next three years. In a statement from Halo Trust CEO James Cowan, the collaboration with the Angolan government was highlighted, showing a united front tackling the aftermath of the conflict. As of now, the Halo Trust has reported finding over 120,000 landmines and 100,000 explosive devices in Angola since its operations commenced in 1994. Despite substantial progress, the organization reveals that approximately 1,000 minefields remain, covering around 67 square kilometers. Tragically, numerous civilians have been affected by these landmines since the conflict ended, emphasizing the urgency for continued demining efforts. The ongoing commitment and advocacy from figures like Prince Harry and the Halo Trust aspire to eradicate landmines in Angola and safeguard future generations from the horrors of war remnants.