The Fulfillment of a Commitment to Serving Others
"Most young people think that community engagement is a waste of time, but for us, it is the most valuable thing." – Mahamat Tahir Hassane Mally.
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Amidst the hundreds of temporary shelters set up at the Milezi site in N’Djamena, Mahamat Tahir Hassane Mally moves with careful attention, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. On this site, where over 500 families affected by the recent devastating floods in Chad’s capital have been relocated, the 25-year-old plays a crucial role. He oversees relief operations and ensures they are carried out efficiently. For more than three months, Mahamat has been dedicating himself to assisting the most vulnerable populations. "I help identify new arrivals, distribute food kits, and coordinate field efforts. The needs are immense," he explains.
Mahamat is no stranger to community engagement. In 2022, when torrential rains caused severe flooding in N’Djamena, he mobilized alongside other young people to support affected families. Filling sandbags and helping the elderly move to safer areas, he demonstrated remarkable determination and selflessness. "I feel truly fulfilled when I bring comfort to people. That’s my real satisfaction," he says with a sincere smile.
Holding a degree in Human Resources, Mahamat is also an active volunteer in several associations. His commitment and involvement in various initiatives through U-Report led to his appointment as Deputy Coordinator of the Milezi site.
For Mahamat, community engagement is more than just a series of actions—it’s a passion.
Most young people think that community engagement is a waste of time, but for us, it is the most valuable thing.This is how we contribute to our country's development.
Launched in 2016 with UNICEF’s support, the U-Report initiative now brings together over 1.5 million young people across Chad. These young men and women actively engage in their communities, proposing concrete solutions to address local challenges. Through what they call U-Actions, they tackle issues such as climate change, organize public clean-up campaigns, conduct awareness-raising activities, provide digital training, aLaunched in 2016 with UNICEF’s support, the U-Report initiative now brings together over 1.5 million young people across Chad. These young men and women actively engage in their communities, proposing concrete solutions to address local challenges. Through what they call U-Actions, they tackle issues such as climate change, organize public clean-up campaigns, conduct awareness-raising activities, provide digital training, and lead recreational activities for children.
Thanks to U-Report and training provided by UNICEF and Chad’s Ministry of Social Action, Solidarity, and Humanitarian Affairs, Mahamat has gained valuable skills in leadership, communication, awareness-raising, and crisis management.
"U-Report has given me knowledge and hands-on experience that I apply every day."
To sustain this spirit of solidarity and address the daily challenges faced by communities, Mahamat calls on humanitarian and non-profit organizations to further support young people engaged in community service. He also encourages his peers to join youth-led initiatives and make a difference. As for his own journey, his commitment remains unwavering.
"My ambition is clear: to continue my engagement and become a key humanitarian actor in Chad,"
he says.
Thanks to UNICEF and its partners, U-Reporters across Chad are leading impactful initiatives, all united by a shared mission: to be drivers of positive change.