UN pledges to eliminate threat of explosive hazards in Somalia

The United Nations on Monday reaffirmed its support for freeing Somalia from explosive hazards and highlighted the impact that the scourge has on the citizens.

James Swan, the UN secretary-general's special representative for Somalia, said the world body is determined to bolster national capabilities to counter threats posed by explosive devices in a sustainable manner.

"The continued use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) poses a serious threat to the country and its population," Swan said in a statement issued in the Somali capital, Mogadishu, to mark the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.