[The Halo Trust] began operations in Mozambique in 1993, funded by the US, UK and others to the tune of nearly $57m (£37m). Calvin Ruysen, regional director of Halo in southern Africa, said: “This is the first heavily mine-affected country to reach an end state. That’s a massive story because it demonstrates that, with the right approach and resources, you can bring a problem to conclusion. It’s an example to other heavily affected states: the fact we’re here now is very important.”

The United States has been the largest individual donor to mine action in Angola making it the third largest recipient of U.S. mine action support in the world -- totaling more than $110 million since 1993. Our extensive efforts have saved thousands of lives through the clearance of roads, contaminated land, and allowed for the safe return of families displaced by conflict.