The humanitarian outreach in the Lake Chad region is about to become more effective, efficient, and sustainable as the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) are set to strengthen their partnership to enhance Coordination, Increase Resource Mobilization, Improve Assessment and Analysis, Strengthened Capacity, and enhanced Advocacy.
According to Chief Military Public Information Officer, Lt Col Abubakar Abdullahi in a press statement on Tuesday, this collaboration was announced on May 28, 2024 by MNJTF Force Commander, Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali, during a visit by OCHA’s Head of Office in Chad, Dieudonne Bamouni, to the MNJTF Headquarters.
General Ali expressed gratitude to OCHA for its diligent coordination of humanitarian support and pledged the full backing of the MNJTF, stating, "We welcome any effort that will bring peace and stability in Lake Chad."
In his remarks, Dieudonne Bamouni lauded the MNJTF for its efforts, particularly its non-kinetic strategies, which have significantly contributed to a rise in terrorist surrenders.
Bamouni acknowledged the progress made by the MNJTF in stabilizing the region. He outlined OCHA’s ongoing activities in Chad to provide support to affected populations and highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in fostering long-term peace and stability.
The Head of Office promised that OCHA would assist in training MNJTF personnel, with a particular focus on understanding the implications of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA) during their operations.
This training, he said, is expected to enhance the MNJTF's capacity to enforce ethical standards and protect vulnerable populations in the region.
Partnership with OCHA (United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs) to strengthen humanitarian support in the Lake Chad region fosters collaboration among humanitarian actors, reducing duplication and ensuring a more cohesive response.
It will also foster collaboration among humanitarian actors, reducing duplication and ensuring a more cohesive response.