In July 2013, I embarked on a mission from South Sudan to Ethiopia to assess the humanitarian needs of South Sudanese refugees who had fled across the border due to escalating violence in their homeland. The trip was both logistically challenging and emotionally impactful, providing crucial insights into the plight of displaced communities and the efforts of humanitarian organisations working to support them. The Journey The mission began with a flight from Juba to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s bustling capital. From there, the journey continued by car to Mizan Teferi, a town near the Ethiopian border where the refugee camp was located. The drive through Ethiopia’s stunning landscapes, with its rolling hills, lush greenery, and vibrant villages, offered moments of respite amidst the gravity of the mission. However, the remoteness of the area underscored the challenges of delivering effective humanitarian aid to refugees in such locations. The Refugee Camp in Mizan Teferi The visit to the refugee camp was a sobering experience. Thousands of South Sudanese, forced to flee their homes due to violence and insecurity, were struggling to rebuild their lives in unfamiliar territory. Key Observations: 1. Living Conditions: • Despite the efforts of humanitarian organisations, including UNHCR, WFP, and several NGOs, the camp faced significant challenges in meeting the refugees’ basic needs. • Overcrowding, inadequate access to clean water, and limited healthcare facilities were among the pressing issues. 2. Efforts by Humanitarian Organisations: • Humanitarian partners were working tirelessly to provide food, water, and shelter, but the scale of the crisis made it difficult to ensure comprehensive coverage. • Projects focused on nutrition, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), and protection for vulnerable groups, especially women and children, were in place but required more resources and support. 3. Resilience of Refugees: • Despite the difficult conditions, the resilience and determination of the refugees were remarkable. Many were working hard to create a sense of normalcy, establishing small markets and community groups within the camp. Debriefing in Addis Ababa After completing the mission in Mizan Teferi, I returned to Addis Ababa to debrief with our team there. The debriefing was an opportunity to share findings, discuss the urgent needs observed in the camp, and strategise on how to enhance support for the refugees. The Addis Ababa office was a hub of activity, with colleagues coordinating humanitarian interventions not only in Ethiopia but also in neighbouring countries. The collaborative spirit of the team was inspiring and reinforced the importance of collective action in addressing regional crises. This mission was a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict and the immense challenges faced by those forced to flee their homes. The dramatic situation in the refugee camp underscored the need for sustained humanitarian support and advocacy to ensure that the voices of displaced populations are heard. At the same time, the visit reaffirmed my respect for the incredible resilience of refugees and the dedication of humanitarian workers striving to make a difference under challenging circumstances. The mission to Mizan Teferi and the subsequent debriefing in Addis Ababa remain etched in my memory as a poignant chapter in my humanitarian journey.