In the wake of receiving the prestigious Humanitarian Award Global, Lifetime Achievement Award, long-serving United Nations official Mabingue Ngom called for a paradigm shift in humanitarian efforts in Africa.

Stressing the urgent need for rapid adaptation to current contexts and crisis prevention mechanisms on the continent, he said: "To bring about change, particularly in behaviour, we need to connect with people on their own terms. 

The humanitarian landscape has changed, requiring adopting models that save lives and preserve livelihoods."

Ngom advocates a two-tiered approach to humanitarian efforts, combining immediate and rapid responses with early warning and early action. 

An approach inspired by his frontline experience supporting communities during crises, including the Ebola epidemics, the COVID-19 pandemic and conflicts in the Sahel, Lake Chad Basin, and Equatorial Africa.

It is crucial to revitalize current approaches to humanitarian action in the region. "We need to increase humanitarian funding, philanthropic engagement and private sector participation to alleviate human suffering, build community resilience and mitigate economic challenges," he warns.

Humanitarian emergencies in Africa, caused by natural and man-made disasters, have multiplied over the years, exposing communities to heightened vulnerabilities.

He advocates for effective responses to humanitarian crises that will contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and accelerate the aspirations of Agenda 2063 for Africa's transformation.

For him, strict adherence to humanitarian principles, global solidarity, collaborative partnerships and inclusive engagement with local communities are essential to reshaping humanitarian action on the continent.

Emphasising the role of religious and cultural leaders, young people and modern technologies in changing behaviour to improve family health services, he calls on institutions such as the United Nations, to continue in its role of facilitating a better multilateral system, and to show greater independence and effectiveness as a global actor.

“The UN is global, and it should remain global.”  

This, he believes, is the key to significant changes.

After the awards ceremony, Ngom reiterated the need to focus on Africa's youth and its direct link to socio-economic and political development. 

"We must harness the demographic dividend through strategic policy interventions such as improved health systems, education, skills development, good governance and accountability."

Ngom continues to advocate for a transformative approach to humanitarian interventions in Africa. His work remains a testament to the power of change to create a better life for all.