In the vast and remote zones of Palorinya Refugee Settlement in Obongi District, West Nile, Uganda, access to electricity is more than a convenience; it is a lifeline. Deep within these communities, generators power health centres, water systems, and critical humanitarian services that thousands of refugees depend on every day.
At the heart of this operation is Nyingaling Harriet, an Assistant Fuel Officer with AIRD, currently managing the UNHCR/AIRD Main Outlet and Mobile Fuel Station in Palorinya.
Every morning, Harriet begins her journey with a mission: ensuring that fuel reaches generators powering health centres and water points across the settlement. Using AIRD’s Mobile Fuel Van, she navigates difficult terrain and remote roads stretching through Itula, Dongo, Ibakwe, Abio, and Longa zones, where rough roads and long distances make service delivery especially challenging.
Despite the demanding conditions, Harriet remains committed to the people who depend on these essential services.
“After receiving UNHCR-authorized fuel vouchers for generators, I plan my movements early to distribute fuel to the health centres and water points using the Mobile Fuel Van. Whereas it’s a daunting task due to the remoteness and state of the roads, I am always motivated to accomplish the task after all, the outcome would be worth it,” Harriet explains.
Her work plays a vital role in sustaining daily life within the settlement. In healthcare facilities, reliable fuel keeps lights on during nighttime emergencies and powers life-saving medical equipment. It also ensures the preservation of vaccines and medicines through uninterrupted cold-chain systems.
At water points, generators fuel pumping systems that extract and distribute clean drinking water from deep boreholes, helping communities maintain proper hygiene and sanitation standards.
For thousands of refugees living far from the national power grid, these generators represent safety, dignity, and survival — and Harriet’s dedication ensures they continue running.
Through her resilience and courage, Harriet exemplifies the commitment of AIRD fuel staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure uninterrupted humanitarian services in refugee settlements. Her journey across the remote roads of Palorinya is not only about delivering fuel; it is about delivering hope, health, and dignity to communities in need.
