Empowering Communities Through Critical Infrastructure Clearance
Since conflict erupted in Sudan in April 2023, Greater Khartoum (Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri) has suffered immense damage to its electrical infrastructure. Explosive ordnance (EO) contamination in damaged electrical substations made it impossible for engineers to conduct safety assessments or undertake critical repairs.
In response, UNMAS, in coordination with the National Mine Action Center (NMAC), deployed its implementing partner SafeLane Global (SLG) to conduct urgent surveys, building clearance, and EO disposal across 15 high-priority substations.This life-saving work is made possible through the generous funding and support of the European Union, via the Service for Foreign Policy Instruments.
Impact at a Glance
- 7 of 15 substations cleared as of August 2026, including key hubs like Al-Kabashi and Al-Izergab.
- Up to 2.5 million beneficiaries supported per major hub through restored grid connections.
- 322 local community members, including 20 women and 52 children, trained via 32 direct EO risk education (EORE) sessions.
The Multiplier Impact: Small Footprint, Massive Benefit
Mine action around power infrastructure creates a powerful catalytic effect. Safe access to these substations allowed technicians to repair switchgear, transformers, and transmission connections. Restored electricity then powers municipal water pumping and treatment facilities, hospitals, and primary health clinics. Energy restoration also brings schools back online, powers local markets, bakeries and workshops, and restores telecommunications. Safe infrastructure enables broader UN and NGO operations, driving early recovery across residential neighborhoods.
Operation in Action
Voices from the Field
“The work carried out at the substations to remove war remnants is of utmost importance to Khartoum Electricity Company… Its operations are based on security and safety, and the key lies in the removal of all war remnants.”
– Operations Manager, Al-Izergab Substation
“When we began removing rubble, we were apprehensive about war remnants. However, the awareness campaigns had a significant impact on guiding behaviour, and we became reassured after the team confirmed our work areas were free of danger.”
– Civil Engineer, Construction Company
