MAG's emergency response project for Gaza is contributing to the post-conflict reconstruction efforts by ensuring as safe an environment as possible for the local population and development agencies.

MAG is supporting the post-conflict reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts by:

- Working as an implementing partner of United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) to identify and prioritise communities affected by unexploded ordnance (UXO) for emergency clearance activities

- Reducing the threat of death and injury posed by UXO to communities and humanitarian agencies working in Gaza

- Supporting provision of safe access for internally displaced people/communities and humanitarian aid agencies travelling to, and within, communities

MAG's activities over the past week (28 February to 6 March) have seen staff provide four safety briefings to other non-governmental organisations working in Gaza; a total of 71 people participated in these sessions, which were hosted by UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) and CARE. MAG also accompanied a delegation from the European Commission who were visiting a factory which was severely damaged and, on request, provided an assessment on the likelihood of the area being contaminated by UXO.

Additionally, a meeting was held with UNDP, which is coordinating reconstruction, to identify areas where MAG can support these activities to reduce the risk during rubble removal.

And MAG was represented at the Association of International Development Agencies monthly meeting. A brief introduction to MAG and the objectives of the Gaza programme was given to other attendees. MAG will follow up with agencies involved in reconstruction to provide advice on UXO contamination.

MAG is working as an implementing partner of United Nations Mine Action Team - Gaza Office (UNMAT-GO).

MAG would like to express its gratitude to the following donors for supporting the Gaza emergency response project: Department for International Development (UK); United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA).