Wings of Relief: Why UNHAS is Essential for Humanitarian Work with Vitalis Okello

‘Pathway to WFP’ is the LinkedIn career series by the World Food Programme investigating the professional backgrounds and life choices that led our staff to the world’s largest humanitarian agency. Subscribe to the newsletter to receive new episodes directly in your inbox!

The United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS), managed by the World Food Programme, provides passenger and light cargo air transport services, enabling the humanitarian community to implement timely and effective responses in emergencies and protracted crises. Currently active with 21 operations globally, UNHAS plays a crucial role in ensuring timely and safe access to populations affected by hunger, conflict, insecurity, climate-related shocks, and health emergencies.

Embark on a journey with Vitalis Okello, Aviation Associate at WFP in Kenya, as he shares insights into his career path, challenges faced, and the rewarding nature of humanitarian aviation. Dive into the world of UNHAS and the vital role of Aviation staff in facilitating humanitarian air transport in hard-to-reach locations. Gain insights into Vitalis’ daily tasks and responsibilities, from flight planning to runway inspection, and the impact of his work on lifesaving missions for thousands of refugees.

Introduce yourself! What is your role at WFP? Where do you work and where are you from?

My name is Vitalis Okello, and I am an Aviation Associate with WFP, based in Kakuma, a town in northwestern Turkana County, Kenya. I’m originally from Siaya County, near Lake Victoria.

In my role, I oversee aircraft operations and ensure the security of the airstrip during movements from Nairobi. Maintaining this airstrip is critical for the humanitarian community, enabling them to reach hundreds of thousands of refugees who have fled from neighboring countries—including South Sudan, Somalia, DR Congo, and Ethiopia—over the years.

Tell us about your professional journey: how did you start your career? What is your academic and previous professional background.

After high school, I attended the East African School of Aviation in Nairobi, Kenya, where I earned a diploma in Aeronautical Communications and became a Federal Aviation Administration Certified Flight Dispatcher.

I began my career in 1994 with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority. In 2000, I joined WFP’s Aviation Service as a Communications Assistant in Lokichogio, northwest Kenya—one of the first UNHAS operations. From there, humanitarian workers and relief cargo were flown into what is now South Sudan to provide essential support.

As I gained experience, I developed additional skills and advanced to the role of Air Operations Logistics Officer. Following South Sudan’s independence in 2011, I played a role in establishing the UNHAS operation in Juba, the new capital. After that, I briefly stepped away from WFP Aviation to work with the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO) in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, as an Air Operations Tasking Officer.

In 2022, I rejoined UNHAS in Kenya, where I now serve as an Aviation Associate, overseeing operations in Kakuma.

What brought you to WFP? Feel free to expand on how you joined the organization, and how your experience has been so far.

After gaining experience with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, I wanted to use my aviation skills to make a positive impact on people in dire need. In October 2000, I came across a job advertisement in a local newspaper for WFP’s air operations in South Sudan, based in Lokichogio. I applied and joined the team.

At the time, the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) had not yet been established, but WFP was already providing common air services for the humanitarian community.

Can you tell us about UNHAS in Kenya?

UNHAS has been operating in Kenya since 2012, providing safe and reliable air transport services to support humanitarian assistance. It plays a critical role in assisting refugees and asylum seekers, particularly in Kakuma and Dadaab—home to two of the world's largest refugee camps.

In Kakuma, we support dozens of humanitarian organizations by providing weekly flights from Nairobi, enabling them to assist nearly 300,000 people in need at the Kakuma Refugee Camp and Kalobeyei settlement. Reaching Kakuma from Nairobi takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes by flight instead of two days by road, making air transport a vital for humanitarian efforts.

UNHAS also works closely with national authorities to maintain and improve aviation infrastructure. In 2024, we rehabilitated the Kakuma airstrip and built a new terminal, significantly improving the passenger experience compared to the temporary check-in structure used previously.

What does an Aviation associate day look like?

My day typically starts early, especially on days when there are flights from Nairobi. I wake up around 5AM to prepare key documents, including the flight manifest, which contains all passenger information. Then, I leave the WFP compound and head to Kakuma Airstrip, about a 10-minute drive away.

Upon arrival, I conduct a short briefing with the security team, which provides 24/7 protection for the airstrip. Next, I carry out a runway inspection to ensure everything is ready for the incoming flight from Nairobi.

Once the inspection is complete, we begin the check-in process and security screening for passengers, assisted by four porters dedicated to UNHAS operations. Check-in closes one hour before departure. In the meantime, I monitor the VHF radio for communication with the arriving flight and other aircraft operating around Kakuma airstrip.

After the aircraft lands, the porters and I assist passengers with their luggage and ensure they exit the airstrip safely. Once all arriving passengers have left, we begin the boarding process for departing travelers.

If there is incoming humanitarian cargo from the capital, we coordinate with the respective United Nations agencies and NGOs for pickup. Once the flight departs, I send a departure message back to Nairobi and then return to the office to continue flight planning for the next day.

What is the most rewarding part of working at WFP?

The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that my work helps the most vulnerable people receive the support they need from the humanitarian community. It’s truly a team effort! 

UNHAS is a lifeline for organizations like WFP, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency , IOM - UN Migration , and NGOs such as the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and the Lutheran World Federation (LWF), which rely on our flights to carry out life-saving work. Any contribution to sustaining UNHAS operations in Kenya is invaluable—it directly helps save lives, both in the refugee camps and within the local community.

What are some of the challenges you face in your job and how do you overcome them?

Weather conditions in Kakuma can be unpredictable and extreme. Since the runway is not tarmacked, drainage issues can arise, sometimes forcing flights to divert to Lodwar, which is a two-hour drive away. This can increase costs for our passengers, who then have to travel by road.

To mitigate this risk, we recently rehabilitated the runway and introduced soak pits to improve drainage, allowing excess water to flow away more effectively.

Can you share 3 tips on how to pursue a similar career?

• Choose the right institution and career path – Select a reputable school that offers relevant aviation programs.

• Obtain the necessary qualifications – Whether it’s a degree, certification, or license, ensure you meet industry requirements.

• Gain experience and network – Look for internships and connect with professionals in the field to learn and grow.

Thank you Vitalis!

Let us know your thoughts and questions and share these career tips with the future humanitarians in your LinkedIn connections. Subscribe to our ‘Pathway to WFP’ newsletter to receive the next episode in your inbox!