Decades of conflict have left parts of Colombia affected by landmines and improvised explosive devices, posing ongoing risks to communities and limiting safe access to land and infrastructure. Clearance operations play a critical role in improving security conditions and supporting long-term social and economic recovery in affected regions.

In support of these efforts, Global Clearance Solutions (GCS) is working with Humanity & Inclusion (HI) to assess and introduce mechanical clearance assets suited to Colombia's challenging operational environment. The cooperation focuses on determining how mechanical support can be applied safely and effectively alongside existing humanitarian clearance methods.

Addressing difficult terrain and contamination patterns

Clearance operations in Colombia are characterised by dense vegetation, hilly terrain and dispersed contamination. Improvised devices, often functioning similarly to anti-personnel mines, are frequently found along roads, footpaths and near civilian infrastructure such as schools and homes. These conditions place significant demands on both operators and equipment.

HI selected a compact, remotely operated mechanical platform to support its operations, based on its ability to navigate steep terrain and dense vegetation while increasing safety and efficiency during ground preparation and clearance tasks. The system is intended to complement manual and survey activities, reducing direct exposure of deminers to explosive hazards where mechanical application is appropriate.

Training, accreditation and early operational support

In February 2020, HI commenced mechanical accreditation training at its training centre in Basillas. GCS supported the process through on-site technical advisory assistance, accompanying the equipment and providing operator training aligned with humanitarian mine action requirements.

Once training and field accreditation are completed, mechanical operations will begin under close monitoring. The performance and operational contribution of the mechanical asset will be evaluated over an initial three-month period to assess suitability, productivity and integration into HI's clearance workflows.

During the early operational phase, GCS will also provide daily service and maintenance support to ensure reliable performance and to assist HI teams in building technical confidence and self-sufficiency.

Supporting safe and sustainable mine action

The introduction of mechanical assets in Colombia reflects a cautious, evidence-based approach to mine action, where technology is applied only when it demonstrably improves safety and operational effectiveness. By combining equipment, training and technical support, GCS supports humanitarian partners in adapting clearance methodologies to local conditions while maintaining compliance with established mine action standards.

Through this cooperation with HI, GCS contributes to clearance efforts aimed at reducing explosive risks, restoring access to land and enabling affected communities in Colombia to move toward recovery and sustainable development.