The journey of a Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) practitioner in the field of humanitarianism is one of navigating complex challenges, fostering community resilience, and ensuring the dignity of displaced populations.
From the initial chaos of emergency response to the ongoing efforts of maintaining safe and organized camps, a CCCM practitioner’s role is vital in creating environments where those uprooted by conflict and disaster can find stability and hope.
This story delves into the experiences, trials, and triumphs of a dedicated CCCM practitioner, Koang Bol Chiengjock Tup, highlighting the profound impact of his work in some of the most vulnerable communities in South Sudan.
What inspired you to pursue a career in Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM)?
My journey into CCCM was driven by a deep-seated passion for working closely with communities and an unwavering commitment to helping those in need. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the impact humanitarian workers had on my own village, and this left a lasting impression on me. I often saw them providing essential services, and their work resonated deeply with me. When I later had the opportunity to become involved in this field, I saw it as my turn to give back to my community and make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
How has your experience in this field shaped you personally and professionally?
My experience as a CCCM practitioner has been profoundly transformative, both personally and professionally. Engaging with communities on a daily basis, as well as coordinating with other stakeholders, including local authorities, has broadened my perspective and enhanced my understanding of the complex challenges displaced communities face. The constant need for creativity in community engagement has also been incredibly fulfilling. I am continually driven to come up with new ideas that can better serve these communities, and this aspect of the work is something I genuinely love. Over time, I’ve grown more resilient and adaptable, qualities that are essential in this line of work.
What was it like when you first started working in CCCM?
When I first started, I was taken aback by the sheer number of people in desperate need due to displacement caused by floods and conflict in South Sudan. It was a humbling experience to see so many lives upended by circumstances beyond their control. I remember feeling overwhelmed at first, but as I settled into my role, I began to understand that every action, no matter how small, contributes to making a significant difference in the lives of those we assist. This realization has kept me motivated and driven to continue in this field.
Can you describe a typical day in your life as a CCCM practitioner?
Each morning, I am picked up from Rubkona Town where I stay, and the start of my day depends on my daily or weekly activity plan. I make sure that the CCCM team members under my supervision receive clear instructions on the priority tasks for the day or week. During our Monday briefings, the team shares key updates, discusses challenges, and outlines the activities to be conducted, including where, by whom, and what resources are needed.
I often join the team in the field, participating in community engagement meetings, site-level coordination meetings, site maintenance activities, and population headcount exercises. In the absence of the CCCM Manager, I act on his behalf, supporting camp management staff, attending coordination forums with other stakeholders, and liaising with the support department to ensure they provide the necessary support for our camp management activities. Toward the end of each month, I collaborate with the CCCM Manager to submit sector updates and share monthly 5Ws reports with the CCCM cluster, summarizing the major activities achieved during the month.
Given the spontaneous nature of my work, I sometimes prepare a comprehensive work plan for the week or bi-weekly, but it often needs to be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances. For instance, in August 2024, heavy rainfall in Unity State required me to adapt quickly, addressing issues brought up by the community, such as supervising the pumping out of rainwater and engaging with community members.
What has been one of the most rewarding aspects of your work in CCCM?
One of the most rewarding aspects has been mentoring community structures, including women, youth, and leaders. Through capacity-building training, I’ve had the opportunity to empower these individuals, helping them to strengthen their self-governance capacities. Watching them grow in confidence and capability, and seeing how they, in turn, uplift their communities, has been incredibly fulfilling. It’s a continuous cycle of learning and teaching that benefits everyone involved.
How do you maintain motivation in such a challenging environment?
The challenges in this field are immense, but the resilience and courage of the communities we serve are what keep me going. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment in knowing that I’m part of something larger than myself—a collective effort to help those in dire need. The trust that people place in me to listen to their grievances and work towards resolving them is both humbling and motivating. It gives me a sense of purpose and continuity, driving me to do more and to ensure that these communities have a platform to voice their concerns and receive the support they deserve.
How has working with displaced communities influenced your view of humanitarian work?
Working with displaced communities has deepened my understanding of the critical importance of humanitarian work. It has shown me that humanitarian efforts are not just about providing immediate relief but also about restoring dignity and hope to people who have lost so much. Seeing the direct impact of our work on individuals and communities has reinforced my belief in the power of humanitarianism to transform lives. It’s not just about providing food, shelter, or medical care; it’s about helping people rebuild their lives and regain a sense of normalcy after experiencing profound loss and trauma.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in CCCM or humanitarian work in general?
My advice would be to approach this work with both passion and resilience. Humanitarian work, particularly in CCCM, is challenging and often requires you to go beyond your comfort zone. However, the rewards far outweigh the difficulties. It’s important to stay adaptable and to always be open to learning from the communities you serve. They are the true experts in their own lives, and your role is to support and empower them. Also, remember that no action is too small—everything you do contributes to the greater good. Finally, never lose sight of the human aspect of this work. It’s easy to get caught up in logistics, but at the heart of everything we do is the goal of helping people in need.
What has been your most memorable experience in your CCCM work so far?
One of the most memorable experiences was when a group of community leaders I had mentored came together to resolve a conflict within their camp. They used the skills and knowledge they had gained through our training sessions to mediate the situation effectively, without external intervention. This was a powerful moment for me, as it underscored the importance of capacity building and the long-term impact it can have. It was incredibly rewarding to see them take ownership of their community’s well-being and to know that my work had played a role in that.
What message would you like to share with the world on this World Humanitarian Day?
On this World Humanitarian Day, I would like to remind everyone of the power of compassion and the importance of standing in solidarity with those in need. Humanitarian work is not just the responsibility of a few—it’s a collective effort that requires the support and involvement of everyone. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply raising awareness, each of us can contribute to making the world a better place for those who have been displaced or otherwise affected by crises. Let’s continue to support one another and work towards a future where everyone has the opportunity to live in safety, dignity, and peace.
Koang Bol Chiengjock Tup journey in humanitarianism reflects not just his personal journey, but the shared experiences of countless humanitarian workers around the world. We are united by a common purpose—to help those who are most vulnerable and to ensure that they are not forgotten. On this day, let’s celebrate the strength and resilience of the communities we serve and reaffirm our commitment to making a positive impact in their lives.
