41 year old James Roland Carew, medical coordinator in DanChurchAid's mine action in Mali, is profiled as a humanitarian hero on UN's World Humanitarian Day on August 19th.
James became an aid worker to make a difference and save lives. This is what he does in Mali through his mine action work with DanChurchAid.
He trains UN staff in incident management and life-saving techniques, and provides medical advice, training and programme support.
Remnants of war limits recovery
Recent and ongoing armed conflict in Mali has resulted in dangerous explosive remnants of war (ERW).
In addition to ERW, improvised explosive devices and landmines also affect livelihoods, freedom of movement, the safe return of internally displaced people and economic recovery.
Contamination also limits the safe deployment of national and international forces in northern Mali, who are tasked with stabilizing the region and consolidating security.
Sense of accomplishment in spite of set backs
“I enjoy knowing that what I teach people will help them save other people’s lives,” says James.
He explains that it is difficult to see first-hand how conflict destroys communities, and how people are forced to leave their homes due to fear.
“The worst part is feeling helpless as conflict undoes achievements in clearing areas of ERW,” he says.
Despite this, James gets a real sense of accomplishment in seeing people working and planting crops on land that could not be used for many years because of war and ERW, and helping mine victims to recover and have a dignified life.
World humanitarian day
UN's World Humanitarian Day is a day to commemorate all people who have lost their lives in humanitarian service and to celebrate the spirit that inspires humanitarian work around the world.
Read more about James Roland Carew and many other humanitarian heroes at World Humanitarian Day
