Motasim has worked in humanitarian mine action since 2006, but his connection to the issue began before his professional career. In 2004, members of his extended family were travelling from their village to the market when their vehicle struck a landmine. Several members of his family were killed.
Until then, Motasim had not known exactly what direction his life would take. He describes himself at the time as what Sudanese people sometimes call a “free worker” - someone doing whatever work was available, from selling goods to construction.
The landmine accident changed his perspective. He understood that mines were not simply a technical problem. They could affect everyone.
Two years later, while living in Kadugli, he happened to attend an awareness-raising session organized by FPDO in collaboration with FSD. He was captivated by what he heard. When an organizer explained that FPDO was recruiting and organizing training, Motasim applied.
He completed Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Level 1 in 2006 and was soon deployed as a deminer with an MTT. Over almost two decades, mine action has taken him across Sudan, including Kadugli, Kassala, Blue Nile, Darfur and Khartoum. He also spent time in Mozambique working as a dog handler.
He obtained EOD Level 2 in 2015. Since then, he had been waiting for an opportunity to undertake EOD Level 3.
The training has exposed him to advanced knowledge and techniques, particularly building searches, different types of fuzes, buried items and low- and high-order techniques. He particularly appreciates instructors who demonstrate techniques themselves and, in his words, “get their hands dirty” alongside participants.
The 15 trainees come from different organisations and backgrounds, but Motasim says the group now feels like a family. They support each other and push one another to improve.
After almost twenty years in HMA, Motasim also sees the threat changing. Landmines remain a central problem, but Sudan now faces increasing UXO, changing weapon systems, drones and explosive contamination in urban environments.
“We need to adapt,” he says. And his ambition after so many years remains simple.
“I hope one day my country will be free of mines and know peace. After that I will be happy.”
Motasim, EOD 3 Training Graduate
