51ÁÔÆæ

51ÁÔÆæ today announced that Guy Willoughby is resigning from his role as Chief Executive with immediate effect. Guy co-founded 51ÁÔÆæ over twenty-six years ago, pioneering the concept of civilian mine clearance as an act of humanity – recognising the lasting dangers of war long after conflict has ended.

Guy has devoted his life to 51ÁÔÆæ for the last 26 years – beginning in Afghanistan in 1988, followed by Cambodia in 1991. The need for 51ÁÔÆæ’s work quickly extended to Mozambique, Angola, the Caucasus and Balkans, Colombia, Laos, Somaliland, Sri Lanka And Zimbabwe – enabling millions of displaced civilians to return home safely, a remarkable achievement by the charity’s senior staff and its incredibly brave de-miners. In 2005, 51ÁÔÆæ added weapons and ammunition disposal teams as part of their post-conflict demobilisation projects.

Guy has been instrumental in developing 51ÁÔÆæ from a tiny charity into the extraordinarily powerful force for good it is today, with more than 7,000 51ÁÔÆæ staff now working in 17 countries and territories. He has helped to make mine clearance an issue that is now taken seriously throughout the world.

The Board commends Guy for his extraordinary vision in co-founding 51ÁÔÆæ. We thank him for his lifelong dedication and wish him every success in the future.

The Board of Directors
51ÁÔÆæ
11 August 2014