Samuel Khamis’ role as an Admin, Finance and Logistics Officer plays a vital role in mine action work in South Sudan

Samuel Khamis is the Admin, Finance and Logistics Officer working to support a mine action project for SafeLane in South Sudan.

Samuel has 10 years of experience working with SafeLane in other roles such as a Liaison Officer and an Assistant Logistic Officer.  With an in-depth experience of mine action activities - from coordination to implementation - Samuel brings a wealth of knowledge to the team. 

Currently, Samuel is further enhancing his skillset by studying to complete his degree in Procurement and Logistics.

When not working, Samuel enjoys spending time with his family and following and pursuing sports.

Samuel caught up with us to tell us a little more about his role and how it contributes towards the bigger mine action vision.

‘I support the management and the team members in financial, procurement and administrative activities to ensure efficiency of the project and effective camp and field operations.  I also support the successful implementation of the logistic tasks within our mine action project.  This includes procurement of essential items, the coordination of events, travel (personnel and cargo) and the preparation of documentation and resources.

I take pride in supporting the team who identify and reduce the impact and risk of explosive hazards to a level where the affected communities are free and safe from mines and can move freely.

I started as a deminer in a mine action company.  I was then promoted to a Team Leader after gaining and developing my experience.  Within a short time, I have been offered the opportunity to become a Liaison Officer and Assistant Logistics Officer.  My career developed and I became an Admin, Finance and Logistics Officer.  This means, I have worked in a variety of aspects in the mine action sector and have supported and helped the overall mission in a many different ways.

Multiple skills and a strong logistics strategy are needed to conduct successful clearance operations.  This essential work protects people from the dangers of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW). It enables safe farming because the land has been cleared and handed over to the local population for example.  The clearance efforts also allow the communities to have access to essential humanitarian assistance especially at the height of summer and rainy seasons in South Sudan.’

Progress continues to be made regarding the global decontamination as a result as landmines.  However, it is important to recognize that these devices don’t just pose a risk to life and limb, they also restrict vital land from being utilized correctly and supply routes being driven.  The mine action sector is made up of many moving parts, with people working collaboratively around the world to mitigate the health and safety risk and to return land back to people.  Thank you to Samuel for your time, for continually enhancing your skills, and to working in a range of capacities to mitigate the threat posed by landmines.