When Prakriti G.C left Nepal for a volunteer assignment in South Sudan, she never imagined she’d be working with ammunition. But over time, her role has become a quiet yet essential part of peacekeeping. It doesn’t make headlines, but it requires precision, responsibility, and trust. Prakriti makes sure that every piece of ammunition is stored safely and tracked accurately. Her work may be behind the scenes, but it plays a powerful role in building peace—one piece at a time.
In a country still healing from years of conflict, safety is fragile. Communities are rebuilding, and peacekeeping operations are a necessity. That’s where Prakriti comes in.
Working with the Ammunition Management Unit under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Prakriti makes sure precision is key in her daily work and that pieces of ammunition are stored safely, tracked carefully, and handled according to the highest safety standards. It is work that happens behind the scenes—but without it, peacekeeping teams couldn’t do their jobs, and the risk to local communities would be far greater.
Prakriti’s days are filled with checklists, inspections, and coordination. She manages logistics, oversees storage procedures, and helps organize training sessions on ammunition safety. But it’s not just about systems—it’s about people.
“I work closely with peacekeepers, logistics teams, local staff, and international colleagues. We all come from different backgrounds, but we share a common goal: to make sure our operations are safe for everyone involved.”
Prakriti has led training sessions, improving awareness and compliance. She’s also simplified transportation and storage processes, reducing the risks that come with handling such sensitive materials. And in a place where trust means everything, she brings people together, teaming up across departments and with local partners.
“Prakriti has demonstrated outstanding dedication and professionalism in ensuring the highest safety standards. Her meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach have significantly enhanced ammunition management in South Sudan.” Bassam E. Asmar, UNMISS Administrative Officer.
Working in South Sudan isn’t without its challenges. Unpredictable conditions, limited resources, and the constant need to adapt have tested her patience and resilience. But Prakriti sees every challenge as a lesson. “This role has taught me how powerful teamwork can be, especially in tough situations. It’s shown me the importance of staying calm, thinking ahead, and never losing sight of the bigger picture.”
One moment she’s particularly proud of? Leading a large-scale ammunition safety training programme. It was a turning point—not just for operations, but for the people involved. “The training gave people confidence,” she says. “It created a sense of shared responsibility. That is something I will always carry with me.”
On International Day of Peacekeepers, Prakriti talks about turning adversity into opportunity and how volunteering isn’t just something she does—it’s part of who she is. “Volunteering has given me a deeper sense of purpose. It’s about service, yes—but also about empathy, understanding, and the belief that even behind-the-scenes work can help build peace.”