In 1997, Princess Diana walked through a minefield in Huambo, Angola, bringing international attention to the plight of landmine victims and the urgent need for clearance efforts. Today, that same minefield has been transformed into a thriving community hub. The site, now known as Avenida 28 de Maio, is home to a bustling school, where children learn and play in safety, free from the fear of landmines. To honor the legacy and impact of Diana's historic walk, the school is now named after the Princess herself.
Then and Now: Left, Princess Diana walks through a minefield in Huambo in 1997. Right, the same area today, now a bustling street known as Avenida 28 de Maio, where children safely attend school and the community thrives.
José Cassoma Calei, a teacher at the school, vividly recalls the days when HALO was clearing the minefield. “When they were doing the clearance work here, it was difficult to work. Because when they detonated a device, the pupils had to leave, along with the teachers,” he shares. The evacuations were frequent, and the threat of hidden explosives was a constant shadow over daily life. But through the dedicated efforts of HALO’s demining teams, all the mines were cleared, and the area was made safe.
The transformation of Avenida 28 de Maio is a testament to the long-term impact of HALO’s work. What was once a dangerous minefield is now a vibrant street where children can attend school without the looming threat of landmines. This remarkable change underscores the importance of sustained demining efforts and the powerful legacy of Princess Diana’s advocacy.
Aurelio José, HALO's HR Manager in Angola, reflects on the significance of Diana’s visit. “The visit that Princess Diana did at that time was really important and was a moment to encourage not just The HALO Trust, but the government of Angola to reduce the impact of mine laying in the country.” Her visit not only raised global awareness but also galvanized international support, leading to increased funding and resources for demining efforts.
Students of the Princess Diana School in Huambo today, built on the land she walked in 1997.
Since 1994, HALO has cleared over 1,000 minefields in Angola, enabling families to live without fear and paving the way for community development. The school on Avenida 28 de Maio is just one example of the many success stories made possible by HALO’s work. Today, the children who attend classes here do so in an environment where safety and opportunity flourish, a stark contrast to the perilous conditions of the past.
