Deep in the heart of northern Sri Lanka, a remarkable transformation is unfolding. A dedicated organization, The HALO Trust, has achieved a monumental milestone by safely clearing over 300,000 landmines from war-torn lands. This inspiring journey not only restores safety but breathes life back into communities, allowing families to return home after years of displacement.

In a region often overlooked by the two million tourists flocking to Sri Lanka each year, the quiet efforts of The HALO Trust have made waves. These skilled teams have carefully removed explosive remnants of the decades-long civil conflict, clearing an area larger than Manhattan. Thanks to their commitment, approximately 250,000 people are now able to reclaim their ancestral homes.

The impact of landmines stretches far beyond the physical terrain—they signify the haunting reminders of conflict. Sri Lanka’s civil war endured for more than 30 years, with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil clashing against the central government. Once peace was restored in 2009, The HALO Trust quickly mobilized to tackle the hazardous remnants of war.

Across districts such as Jaffna, Kilinochchi, and Mannar, the process of detonation and disarming began. Step by step, HALO has been diligently restoring lands once shrouded in despair. On June 18th, they proudly announced the stunning achievement of removing their 300,000th landmine, alongside clearing 120 square kilometers of land for safe use.

“Thanks to HALO, over 280,000 people who were previously displaced can now return to their homes safely,” the organization shared in a recent press release. This statistic is far more than just a number; it reflects families reunited, gardens reclaimed, and futures rebuilt.

As the island country draws tourists with the promise of its beauty, HALO is racing against time to clear the remaining contaminated areas, hoping to enhance Sri Lanka’s appeal. This endeavor could bring in over $3 billion to the economy in 2024 alone, a welcome boost for the nation.

Vithoozen Antony, the Operations Manager for HALO in Sri Lanka, poignantly remarked, “These minefields were laid when I was still in primary school. I remember the fear and uncertainty they caused. Today, I stand proud leading a team dedicated to clearing them. This milestone embodies lives saved and land returned.”

HALO’s work continues on a global scale, having recently marked a staggering 550,000 mines and unexploded items cleared in Cambodia since 1991. Each demystified landmine brings communities closer to healing and revitalization.

Let’s celebrate the incredible efforts of The HALO Trust in repairing the fabric of communities in post-war Sri Lanka!