Majda Rizq, a Sudanese pharmacist with MSF, recounts her humanitarian journey amid war and a cholera outbreak in Sudan. After being displaced from Khartoum to El Gedaref, she leads efforts to treat cholera patients and provide essential health services to nearly 1 million displaced individuals. In collaboration with local health authorities, MSF mobilizes resources to combat the crisis despite overwhelming challenges.
Majda Rizq, a MSF pharmacist from Sudan, reflects on her life shaped by humanitarian work amidst war. Growing up in a large family, she dedicated over 25 years to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), working in operational roles, especially in emergencies. After marrying Mohamed Koko, they settled in Khartoum, but were forced to relocate to Wad Madani due to the war, eventually moving again to El Gedaref under dire circumstances.
As violence in Sudan escalated, Majda’s mother joined them, but sadly passed away before they could return her home to Wad Madani. In August 2024, a cholera outbreak compounded their suffering, prompting Majda to take on a bigger role in MSF’s emergency response in El Gedaref, where she now serves as a deputy project coordinator, aiding thousands of displaced individuals.
El Gedaref presented a critical humanitarian crisis, with nearly 1 million displaced individuals, and a pressing cholera outbreak alongside inadequate water and sanitation services. MSF faced escalating demands, providing crucial medical treatments to cholera patients and expanding their capacity to accommodate a growing number of cases.
In 2024, MSF’s initiatives widened beyond cholera treatment to encompass basic healthcare, with two mobile clinics delivering essential services to the displaced population. They conducted over 16,000 outpatient consultations, provided prenatal care, administered routine vaccinations, and treated malnourished children, showcasing their comprehensive approach to health amid adversity.
Clean water scarcity posed a significant challenge, especially during the rainy season when existing sources became contaminated. MSF responded by distributing vast quantities of drinking water and constructing emergency latrines, crucial for community health amidst the cholera crisis.
Collaboration with the Ministry of Health in El Gedaref was vital to their efforts, underscoring the importance of community strength in humanitarian crises. Despite the overwhelming situation and personal struggles, Majda finds motivation in her family and their collective commitment to rebuilding their lives and communities once peace is restored.
Majda Rizq’s story highlights the profound impact of humanitarian work in the face of war and cholera in Sudan. Through her dedication and collaboration with MSF, she addresses critical medical and sanitation needs among displaced populations. The ongoing challenges, exacerbated by the cholera outbreak, demonstrate the vital role of community support and health initiatives. Ultimately, hope for a peaceful future drives their continued efforts to rebuild and restore health and safety for all affected.
Original Source: www.doctorswithoutborders.org
