Mbera – Every year on 19 August, the world celebrates World Humanitarian Day to honour the women and men who, often in difficult conditions, devote their lives to helping others. This year's theme, “Strengthening global solidarity and empowering local communities,” focused on recognizing the critical role of local actors in humanitarian response. 

Abidine Ould Sidewa, a nurse at Mbera refugee camp in Mauritania, describes his contribution in protecting the vulnerable and providing for people in need of humanitarian assistance.

1. What led you to be involved in humanitarian work? What is your role at the Mberra camp triage centre?

I started as a trader in Timbuktu (in Mali), but it was when I discovered community health work that I truly understood what it meant, such as being helpful, listening and supporting others. This is what inspired me to train as a nurse in 1998. Since then, I have been committed to serving all people in need, regardless of their origin.

Since April 2024, I have been working at the triage centre for new arrivals from Mali. We provide consultations, malnutrition screening, vaccinations for zero-dose children and awareness-raising. This system enables us to identify individuals who are ill before they integrate into the community, which has significantly reduced community deaths.

2. What are the common diseases you handle and how do you raise awareness among communities?

In the field, I deal with diseases that mainly affect children and women: acute respiratory infections, malaria, diarrhoeal diseases, measles and, mostly, malnutrition. These conditions are often worsened by a lack of access to healthcare, safe drinking water and a balanced diet.

To raise awareness among the population, I take a tailored approach for each context. I talk to mothers, community leaders and young people. I inform them about the importance of vaccination, simple hygiene practices, the risks associated with births unattended by a skilled health worker, and the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding. I also rely on community leaders and dialogue sessions to convey messages clearly and respectfully. I always emphasize the importance of following vaccination schedule, as it saves lives.

3. Can you tell us about any incident that has stayed with?

In 2022. I met a pregnant refugee woman, alone with two young children, both suffering from severe malnutrition. She was distrustful, exhausted and refused treatment for religious reasons. I took the time to listen to her, to understand her fears and beliefs. It wasn't easy, but little by little, she began to trust me.

I arranged for her to be transferred to a health centre, organized nutritional care for her children, and accompanied her throughout her journey, right up to delivery. She gave birth to a healthy baby. That day, she thanked me emotionally. It brough tears to my eyes.

4. What progress give you confidence in the future of local humanitarian action?

I see real transformation: communities are becoming aware of their role, asking questions and getting involved. Collaboration with the police, the structured reception of new arrivals, and growing interest in health show that humanitarian work is no longer limited to emergencies. It is becoming a driver of recovery and empowerment.

For me, reaching the most vulnerable is not just about providing care or resources. Above all, it means recognizing their humanity and their fundamental right to live in safety, in good health and with hope. Humanitarian aid begins when we refuse to look away. By strengthening the capacity of local communities to care for themselves, we are not only saving lives: we are planting the seeds of a more equitable, dignified and united future.