In the green mountains of Eastern Antioquia, where for years the conflict left invisible but deep traces, new stories are blooming today. It is not only about mines destroyed; it is also roads, parks and, above all, the trust of communities rebuilt.
Soldiers of the Humanitarian Demining Engineer Battalion No. 7 have shown that their mission goes beyond removing explosive devices, their operation is in the same way social, pedagogical and deeply humane.
Concepción: a park that beat again
In the municipality of Concepción, the main park was once again filled with color, laughter and community gathering. There, the mine clearance specialists participated in a maintenance and beautification activity that included painting, adaptation of spaces and logistical support.
The activity was not limited to construction. Puppet workshops and an emotional cinema activity at the park were held, creating safe spaces for family integration.
Mayor, Adrian Henao Carvajal, expressed his gratitude with words that reflect the collective feeling: "I want to send a very special thanks message to the members of the Humanitarian Demining Battalion No. 7 for their commitment and collaboration. Their support was fundamental in the restoration of the main park and in each of the activities that they carry out in the municipality. God bless you."
The support in labor, especially in painting and adaptation work, managed to recover a space that is the heart of the municipality.
About 800 people were benefited, mainly children who in the same way received instruction in anti-personnel mine risk education, a key component to save lives and generate awareness.
More than a community activity, it was a symbolic act, because where there was fear before, today there is cinema, games and learning.
San Carlos: a path that opens up opportunities
"In coordination with the Communal Action Board and inhabitants of the Puerto Rico village, of the municipality of San Carlos, more than 35 meters of superficial asphalt were built in order to improve the conditions for the mobility of its inhabitants with their products, such as subsistence products, in this way the Battalion continues to contribute to the well-being and service and thus reaffirming its commitment to the Antioquian people," said Lieutenant Colonel Yesid Carreño Sua, commander of the Humanitarian Demining Battalion No. 7.
This work directly benefits 35 peasant families who use the road to transport and market their agricultural products, thus strengthening the local economy.
The president of the village, Julieth Jara, said with emotion: "We want to thank the Humanitarian Demining soldiers who collaborated with us in the construction of this path. Thank you very much."
For those who live in the countryside, each meter of track represents time gained, less physical effort and more opportunities for progress. In regions where geography is a constant challenge, improving access means dignity and development.
More than soldiers, allies of the territory
The actions of the 7th Humanitarian Demining Engineer Battalion consolidate a close and supportive institutional presence. Its work coordinates security, pedagogy and social development, demonstrating that the reconstruction of the community fabric is as important as the elimination of explosives.
Every brushstroke in the park, every meter of asphalt and every child who learns about mine prevention are signs of a territory that is moving towards tranquility.
Today, the Battalion is not only clearing the lands, it is also clearing fear and sowing hope.
Source: Press - Humanitarian Demining Brigade
