A career dedicated to reaching people in need: An interview with OCHA Burkina Faso's Raissa Njoya

The humanitarian crisis in Burkina Faso has left 6.3 million people in need of assistance. Delivering life-saving humanitarian aid has never been more crucial, especially to more than 2 million people who are internally displaced across the country. However, access constraints from insecurity to armed violence have restricted the movement of humanitarian workers and supplies, leaving many vulnerable populations without essential services and support.

Raissa Njoya, a Humanitarian Access Officer at our office in Burkina Faso, works with local communities and authorities to ensure that life-saving assistance reaches those in need by fostering a secure environment for humanitarian operations.

How did you decide to become a humanitarian?

During my time with the ICRC, I worked in different roles, from Protection Team Leader to Head of Sub-office. In all instances, interaction with armed forces was part and parcel of my job. From there, working within civil-military coordination and access was natural progression in my career.

What inspired you to pursue a career in civil-military coordination and access at OCHA?

I have always felt that access and civil-military coordination are central to humanitarian action. The work we do to build a much-needed bridge with all parties to be able to reach people affected by a crisis is hugely motivating, something that inspires me every day. And different contexts bring different challenges, but if you work hard to find solutions, it is such a rewarding experience. Working in Burkina Faso, for instance, is very humbling. The context brings new challenges every day, so every day there is something new to learn. This forces you to preserve and never lose sight of the very reason why we are here.

If you were to point you to the best and the worst part of your job, what would they be?

Understanding people’s needs and seeing them fully benefit from the aid we provide, are the most satisfying part of my job – and of our very reason to be as OCHA. On the flip side, no matter how critical this work is, some fail to see its relevance and impact and that is my biggest frustration.

A memory you will always cherish?

With my team, we went on a mission to Kaya to train security and defense forces and humanitarians on humanitarian principles. I was stunned by the level of interest that everyone showed, and how they valued what we were sharing with them. Knowing that they will put those principles into practice was very fulfilling.

Do you have a role model?

My mom is my number one source of inspiration, the very reason why I am who I am today. She showed me that a woman can proudly stand on her own feet, and above all, she taught me the core values I continue to live by - perseverance, endurance, adaptability, and hard work.

What advice do you have for women wanting to start a humanitarian career?

In my current assignment, I have learned firsthand how important it is to see the bigger picture. So, to my fellow women, I say “never forget to use this approach to thinking”. Not only it can be a great source of inspiration – for you and for those around you – but it will also help you stay focused on your very purpose in the face of challenges. And don’t shy away from seeking a mentor. It can prove essential to be able to rise above any given circumstance, to get a different perspective, and ultimately to gain experience and new skills.