18 September 2008

Abéché, Chad: As a UNV volunteer 'Log' Assistant, I manage logistic functions including supply, transport, movement, etc. I serve as a focal person for the provision of staff accommodation. I remain conscious of all logistics needs and equipment maintenance in each location inside the Area of Responsibility (AOR) and coordinate re-supply through the applicable chain of command. I report daily through Joint Logistics Operation Centre (JLOC) command on the logistics status in the AOR: immediate problems, main pending issues, last consolidated progress etc…

On receipt of re-supply, I check and ensure dispatch to the people concerned. I ensure that records of all the main logistics stocks such as water, fuel, air support, vehicles, communication equipment, generators and engineering equipment or services in the AOR are accurately maintained; in the event that one or more of the above sections are absent, I will have to adequately fill in the gap. By maintaining close coordination with the Integrated Support Services Section representatives in the sector, I try to resolve logistics problems first locally and then with top management.

Let's look back to the beginning of the United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic and Chad (MINURCAT) in Abéché (Eastern Chad). I arrived in Abéché on 17 March 2008 to give support to the only Admin Officer, Elie Rizkala who had already spent almost a month on the ground. With a team of six (one administrator, one JLOC assistant, one Engineer and three Security officers) it was time to start the ball rolling.

It was really not easy, especially for me, where I had to be polyvalent in my service. I played the roles of Movement Control (MovCon), supply, fuel, transport, procurement, hotel reservation for staff staying overnight in Abéché etc. For almost three months, I was the only UNV volunteer deployed in this part of Chad.

This difference was never be felt as we all had excellent team spirit, courage and determination for the fulfilment of MINURCAT's mandate. I enjoy my job to the fullest because I volunteer my integrity and professionalism to serve humanity with loyalty and dignity. Today, the MINURCAT office in Abéché has over 100 staff and many more to come. I am proud to be part of MINURCAT's ground breaking team in Abéché.

I volunteered to serve the UN because I felt the urge to help the needy, to contribute to this noble work that the UN family is committed to. I volunteered my expertise in the fight to liberate mankind. My presence and contribution towards this objective among the needy fills my heart with joy.

Every day that passes by leaves me with the conviction that someone is being helped, saved or blessed. I volunteer not to victimize but to serve as a beacon of hope to the hopeless, help to the needy, voice to the voiceless and strength to the feeble. I feel proud and happy being part of this family today.