UNFPA capacity building at Windhoek, Namibia (11-22 June 2012)

I had a wonderful opportunity to be a workshop trainer and facilitator at the UNFPA capacity building event in Windhoek, Namibia. Participants came from UNFPA offices across Africa, representing programme and operations functions.

The PSB (Procurement Services Branch) team from Copenhagen led the training on procurement systems and procedures while I focused on supply chain and logistics, with an emphasis on in-country logistics.

My training promoted pro-active interaction between the programme and support functions. Huge benefits can be realized when people are encouraged to break down barriers and work together rather than in silos. Programme efficiency is improved when logistics and supply chain elements are factored into programme planning, programme budgets and donor proposals. My message was reinforced by a simulation exercise which participants really appreciated.

I enjoyed being in Namibia, a beautiful country, and to be working with a great team from PSB: the Africa procurement team leader, Ms. Ingergerd, and her colleagues Peder, Lidia, Lauren, Sandra, and Karen.

UNFPA workshop for the Ministry of Health, Sierra Leone

Pamela with workshop participants

I had a fantastic week in Sierra Leone (28th May to 3rd June) to co-facilitate a UNFPA 'Procurement and Logistics' training workshop with Karen Rasmussen for the Ministry of Health. The workshop even earned a mention in the national press!

The opening ceremony was attended by the Director of Drugs and Medical Supplies, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Mr. Bassie Turay, the Deputy Director of Drugs and Supplies, Mr.Jack Lansana, and the UNFPA country representative for Sierra Leone, Madam Ratidzai Ndlovu. Procurement officers responsible for health commodities came from various institutions including the Procurement Unit in the Ministries of Health and Sanitation, and Defense and the National Procurement Authority. I was so encouraged to exchange knowledge with participants who were so engaged and keen to learn.

My Sierra Leone trip ended with a beautiful reunion and a surprise beautiful breakfast prepared by my former UNICEF friends Dorothy, another Dorothy and Farajah! Wonderful ladies…..thank you for the friendship and hospitality.

The Standard Times