Zimbabwean Demining Expert Dies in Argentina Explosion

Fire Fighters at the scene of the accident (image source)

Zimbabwean explosives and demining specialist Henry Martin Douglas Macharaga has died in Argentina after an explosive device he was handling detonated unexpectedly on August 19.

The blast occurred along National Route 34, a major highway linking several provinces to the Bolivian border. Macharaga, aged 52, was stationed at a The Development Initiative (TDI) base near Mosconi in Salta Province, where he was engaged in demining operations. Forensic teams, Tartagal firefighters and provincial police explosives experts have since secured the site as part of a full investigation into the fatal accident.

Macharaga’s career spanned decades and took him across some of the world’s most dangerous regions, including Afghanistan, South Sudan, Angola, Mozambique, Lebanon and multiple countries in Central and South America. Colleagues described him as a consummate professional whose expertise and courage contributed greatly to clearing hazardous areas for civilian populations.

He is survived by his wife and two children. His family has appealed to his employer for assistance with repatriation of his remains to Zimbabwe and financial support during what they described as “a profoundly difficult period of adjustment.”

TDI, founded in 2005, is one of the leading organizations in global mine action. The group has cleared more than 26,600 km of routes, removed 235,000 unexploded ordnance items, and safely destroyed over 2,400 tonnes of obsolete munitions across Africa and the Middle East. Its operations have been instrumental in restoring safety to post-conflict communities.

Commenting on the tragedy, humanitarian mine action specialist Dr. Tendai Nyamadzawo stressed the dangers inherent in the profession:“Demining is one of the most perilous fields of work. Despite rigorous training and safety protocols, the unpredictable nature of unexploded ordnance makes it high-risk. Macharaga’s dedication reflects the sacrifice of countless professionals who risk their lives to protect others.”

The death of Henry Martin Douglas Macharaga stands as a reminder of the grave risks faced by demining experts worldwide. His legacy endures in the lives made safer through his work.