Protect and Serve: Donald Osunga's Journey of Service

Nairobi - Donald Osunga always wanted to provide service to humanity. His father was a military officer, and Donald admired his work ethic, discipline and the vigor with which he handled issues both at home and at work.

“I am passionate about serving humanity and ensuring safety and security of different categories of people,” said the 58-year-old father of eight and grandfather of eight.

Donald is the senior security personnel with IOM Kenya, managing a team of three, with the responsibility of ensuring the safety of nearly 400 IOM staff.

Growing up, a young Donald wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps, “to defend and protect.” He started his career in 1980, as a graphic designer with the Private Sector in Nairobi and joined The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Somalia in March 1994. His passion for security saw him volunteer his time with the radio operations department. His interest and dedication caught the eye of Wayne Edward Long, the then Chief Security Advisor, UNDP Somalia, now retired.

“Funny story, it is because of my husky voice!” Donald smiles as he remembers. “Mr. Wayne Edward Long recommended and I joined the radio operations team; I would support in monitoring flights."

Through mentorship and organizational support, Donald was trained and became a certified radio operation technician. He was also trained in security management and logistics, supporting the assessment of residential security and office building security among others.

“Today, I am grateful for the training I received, it has impacted my growth to better serve and protect,” said Donald. “When at home, I am very cautious on matters security, I ensure that all windows and doors are locked.”

Donald joined IOM in July 2002, as Radio Operator/Technician as well as support for common services. “I was happiest when I joined IOM, my contract had just ended in June,” He reminisced. “At the time, the civil war in Somalia that displaced tens of thousands of people, I was part of the IOM team that provided the critical support to the migrants, refugees and asylum seekers including the lost boys of Sudan. I was happy to serve and protect.”

 In 2009, Donald was appointed Senior Security Personnel, a position he holds to date.

 “I have been able to build and empower my team of three. I am happy that for the first time, IOM Kenya Office has a female security personnel,” he proudly said.

“I am very patient.”

Safety and security are very crucial to successfully deliver IOM’s mandate. Donald and his team have been able to effectively incorporate SCAAN into IOM’s security operations including guiding staff on how to use it.

“It is convenient such that staff members are able to respond to headcounts through SMS, emails or on the mobile APP. Like any other innovation it has its challenges”, Donald said.

“Most staff forget to enable data to help security officers trace or deliver help especially in time of emergencies.”

Donald’s typical day starts at five o’clock every morning. His dedication in ensuring all IOM staff receive required security training and are settled in secure locations is to be admired.

“I enjoy my work and appreciate the fact that I have something to wake up and do every day with positive results. It has helped me embrace inclusion, respect for diversity, professionalism and teamwork,”