Removing mines to make families safe in Kosovo

Peja is one of the seven major cities in Kosovo with a total population of over 48,000 inhabitants. The public park lies across the neighborhoods of Kapershnicë and Zatra and receives foot traffic from over 20,000 people annually. It is an idyllic location for morning and afternoon hikes, with hiking information boards and maps located along the paths. The locals use it for walks, jogs, picnics, and grazing their animals. In 2013, a local encountered a suspicious item and called the authorities, which resulted in the identification and destruction of a dangerous cluster munition. A month later another one was seen and reported. Upon survey, this park has become a dangerous area – the last left in the city.

Fatmir is a local from Peja, who visits the park each week with his dog Ace. He and his family and friends enjoy spending time in the forested areas of the park. Fatmir says that he is aware of the contamination, so he only accesses the area when HALO does not operate, while still only following safe and cleared access routes.

Thanks to our supporters, HALO started clearance at Peja in March 2020 and was able to find five cluster sub-munitions so far. Residents are already using the now safe land for recreational activities and grazing.

Thank you for making our work possible!