In Zimbabwe, children as young as four cross through a minefield every day to reach school. Zimbabwe is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world, a legacy of the Liberation War in the 1970s. Along the borders in the northeast up to 5,500 mines were laid every kilometre. Almost 50 years later these mines still threaten a new generation.
"I was afraid of stepping on a landmine on the way to school."
Samantha age 11. Rushinga, Zimbabwe.
Morning roll call at school in Rushinga district, Zimbabwe.
"Raise your hand if you walk through a minefield to school."
150 children age 4 -15 attend this school in Rushinga district.
Children as young as four walk through the minefield to school. The older students usually guide the younger children, keeping to established paths to reduce the risk.
These images capture the generational impact of conflict and the juxtaposition of the freedom and fun of childhood with the lethal barrier minefields that transect the land and the children's lives.
"We leave the house together with my friends and cross the minefield. My favourite lesson is Shona."
"As a teacher, I am very worried because there is the possibility of losing one of our children to the mines."
Mrs Abigail, teacher, Rushinga, Zimbabwe.
Everisto is 12 years old. He loves football and running. He says his school football team is the best. He crosses the minefield to come to school. His grandfather's cattle were killed by a landmine.
In Zimbabwe, landmine clearance charities like The HALO Trust are working with the Zimbabwean government to clear the minefields.
Local men and women are trained and employed to make the land safe. Often they are working to clear their own communities, ensuring all children have a safe path to school.
