Developing Abandoned Improvised Mine (AIM) clearance capacity in Mine Action

Artios Global successfully provided a capacity development initiative for the Directorate of Mine Action Afghanistan (DMAC) to enhance the organisation’s ability as Afghanistan’s National Mine Action Authority to fulfil operational and quality management functions related to Abandoned Improvised Mines (AIM).

BACKGROUND 

Providing training on the basics of AIM components.

Based on DMAC policy, Abandoned Improvised Mines (AIMs) are predominately pressure activated victim operated IEDs located in areas of the country that are not in active conflict. DMAC now has evidence that over 50% of civilian casualties in the country related to explosive ordnance contamination are the result of AIMs.  Affected communities are routinely requesting assistance from DMAC to enable them to safely return home and resume a normal life. 

OUR ROLE

Bespoke and engaging training media.

Artios conducted a training needs analysis to inform the development a training management package specific to the needs of DMAC. This was achieved through key informant interviews, a wide range of practitioner surveys and focus group discussions. A team of highly experienced staff was then deployed to Kabul in January 2020, with full logistical support by the HALO Trust, to facilitate an interactive capacity development training initiative.

RESULTS

Demonstrating a barrel disruptor as key piece of AIM disposal equipment

22 key DMAC management staff successfully completed the training initiative, with a 100% pass rate for the final course assessment. The assessment covered the following areas: 

1. AIM Types, construction and methods of employment. 

2. AIM Threat assessment. 

3. AIM Clearance procedures general overview. 

4. Quality planning for AIM operations. 

5. Quality assurance for AIM operations. 

6. Quality control for AIM operations. 

Collectively there was also a significant focus on setting the conditions to support the adoption of these enhanced KSAs in the workplace in the long term. 

We look forward to following the progress as DMAC implement this enhanced capacity to achieve positive outcomes as they grapple with the significant humanitarian need in Afghanistan related to AIMs.   

With special thanks to:

• The Directorate of Mine Action Afghanistan (DMAC) and the participants

• The Governments of Germany and the Netherlands. 

• HALO Trust Afghanistan Programme.