08 Oct 2024

Sam Okeyo

Embracing the role of a humanitarian pharmacist is not just a career, it's a powerful dedication to the betterment of humanity. Every day presents fresh and exhilarating challenges, and although the journey might be arduous, the returns are incredibly fulfilling. The real joy lies in the people you encounter, the relationships you forge, and the remarkable chance to collaborate with individuals from diverse corners of the globe.

As a pharmacist, my role has taken me from the bustling healthcare systems of Sierra Leone to the high risk zones of Afghanistan, where my responsibilities extended far beyond managing medicines. I’ve learned what it means to be resilient, to lead with empathy, and to help bring life-saving care to those who need it most. These experiences have not only shaped my career but have strengthened my belief in the power of humanitarian work and the vital role pharmacists play on the frontlines of crisis.

Sierra Leone: Transforming lives through clinical pharmacy

In Sierra Leone, as a Clinical Pharmacy Manager, I witnessed firsthand the power that pharmacists have in directly impacting patient care. Establishing a clinical pharmacy department allowed us to enhance medication safety and personalise treatment, even with limited resources. I quickly learned that in resource-constrained settings, managing clinical care requires adaptability and creative problem-solving. When faced with shortages of essential medicines, I worked closely with medical teams to ensure our patients received the best possible care, even when supplies were running low.

Empowering local staff was another critical part of my work. By mentoring them and sharing best practices, we not only improved pharmacy services but also ensured sustainability long after external support had ended. This experience solidified my belief that pharmacists can be a driving force for better healthcare, even in the most challenging conditions.

Afghanistan: Leading with humility and empowering communities

Afghanistan presented its own set of challenges. As a Project Pharmacy Manager, I managed supply chains in a high-risk zone while balancing the cultural and security dynamics. One of the most important lessons I learned here was avoiding “saviourism syndrome”. Humanitarian work is not about “saving” people, but about partnering with and empowering local communities. In Afghanistan, I worked closely with local healthcare providers to follow treatment protocols that were adapted to the available resources.

Resilience was another key aspect in Afghanistan. Despite constant security risks, the dedication of the local teams was inspiring. Their strength and commitment taught me that leadership in crisis situations goes beyond logistics—it’s about fostering a culture of support, empathy, and open communication. This empowered our team to overcome even the toughest challenges and continue delivering vital care under immense pressure.

Pharmacists: Champions of change in crisis zones

From Sierra Leone to Afghanistan, one consistent truth emerged: pharmacists are more than medicine managers in humanitarian settings. We are agents of change, bridging the gap between logistical challenges and patient care. By collaborating with local staff and building their capacity, we ensure healthcare systems can thrive long after we leave. The ability to adapt, lead with empathy, and support communities in crisis makes pharmacists crucial players in humanitarian healthcare.

Looking ahead: A vision for continued impact

These experiences with MSF have strengthened my commitment to advocating for better access to essential medicines worldwide. The lessons I’ve learned continue to inspire me as I strive to ensure pharmacists remain at the forefront of humanitarian efforts. I am excited to continue this journey, knowing that even in the most difficult circumstances, pharmacists can bring hope, healing, and lasting change.

Driven by a deep passion for humanitarian work, Sam has dedicated his career to improving healthcare delivery in some of the world’s most challenging environments. With a Master of Pharmacy degree from Rhodes University, South Africa, where he has graduated with distinction, he uses his expertise to bring vital medical supplies and care to vulnerable populations. Currently serving as a Project Pharmacy Manager with Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), his work takes him to the frontlines of humanitarian crises, where every decision can mean the difference between life and death. Whether in Afghanistan or Sierra Leone, he is at the heart of efforts to ensure that life-saving medications and medical equipment are available and used effectively. His work encompasses managing complex supply chains, training local staff, and setting up systems that ensure medications are safely stored and distributed, even in the most resource-limited settings. Beyond his immediate fieldwork, he is also committed to advancing the global conversation on healthcare accessibility and patient safety. He has actively contributed to community health projects and published research on medication comprehension, while also passionately highlighting the indispensable role that pharmacists play in humanitarian efforts worldwide.