Meet Jedidah Ngui, a Nutrition Officer in West Pokot, Kenya, who has worked with Action Against Hunger for five years. In her role, Jedidah coordinates and integrates all sub-county nutrition activities by training local health workers and community volunteers to “implement programs by themselves once Action Against Hunger leaves the area,” she proudly explained.    

Jedidah recording key nutrition indicators. Photo: Guy Calaf

Jedidah studied nutrition to “help the community.”  During my visit to the region, observing her interact with our staff and beneficiaries made it abundantly clear that she is most certainly succeeding in her objective.  Following Jedidah around on a typical work day made me realize just how much she covers not just in terms of geographical distance but through the depth and breadth of her operations.

On Sunday, while most people would be at home relaxing with their families, Jedidah traveled from our regional base, driving upwards of six hours to visit two facilities – first stopping by the District Record Office (DRO) to make sure that they had enough reporting tools in stock and then going to the Ministry of Health to assess ongoing activities and to ensure that the staff was properly implementing its micronutrient supplementation activities. 

Without a single minute to catch a break, Jedidah proceeded to one of our supplemental feeding facilities to advise pregnant and nursing women on the right proportions of nutrients needed to feed their children.  Following Jedidah alone was tiring enough; just imagine carrying the work and the responsibility that come with it – something she is incredibly proud to do, maintaining a dignified smile every step of the way. 

Jedidah at a Mother-to-Mother Support Group. Photo: Guy Calaf

Jedidah’s work ethic is the embodiment of dedication and professionalism.  Yet somewhere behind this unyielding commitment lies a profound and genuine sense of compassion.  Jedidah is a true humanitarian, working unreservedly in the face of a daunting sense of destiny, to create a space to be human.

Jedidah visits an Action Against Hunger-supported Health Facility in West Pokot. Photo: Guy Calaf

Editor's Note: Stay tuned for a video feature on Jedidah's work later this week. Meantime, learn more about World Food Day and how to Act Against Hunger (#ActXHunger) here!