The United States is working with Papua New Guinea to address the risks posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO) and other explosive remnants of war. The collaboration involves several projects funded by the U.S. Government, which is recognized as the largest financial supporter of conventional weapons destruction globally.
“The United States is proud to support Humanitarian Mine Action efforts in Papua New Guinea,” said Col. Baskins, senior defense official and Defense Attache with U.S. Embassy Port Moresby. “These programs reflect our commitment to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific, and strengthens the partnership between our two nations.”
A five-week Humanitarian Mine Action training program concluded on July 25, aiming to improve the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) capabilities of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF). The initiative was designed to equip PNGDF personnel with skills for handling and disposing of explosive remnants such as landmines and UXO to help protect local communities.
U.S. Marines from 1st EOD Company of I Marine Expeditionary Force led the training in Port Moresby and other locations throughout Papua New Guinea. The program covered topics like ordnance identification, safe handling procedures, controlled demolitions, and emergency response techniques.
“It has been a great experience to work alongside the PNGDF in delivering this training. Their dedication is inspiring, and we are confident that the skills they are learning will make a lasting impact,” said SSgt Mueller, EOD Team Leader from 1st EOD Company, 7th ESB.
In addition to training initiatives, the U.S. Government has provided a $2.25 million grant to the HALO Trust for UXO remediation left over from World War II and for improving UXO reporting and tracking systems. The HALO Trust signed a memorandum of agreement with Bougainville's autonomous region in June and plans similar agreements with Oro Province soon. Activities include surveying and mapping unexploded ordnance sites for national tracking purposes, providing community risk education, and excavating hazardous areas identified during surveys.
The United States began supporting UXO removal efforts in Papua New Guinea in 2009 when its Quick Reaction Force removed or destroyed more than 2,700 UXO items along with additional small arms ammunition in Torokina, Bougainville. The ongoing partnership aims to help return land safely for community use through cooperation among U.S., PNG government agencies, PNGDF personnel, local authorities, and international partners.