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Updates From the National Staff Association
Dear Esteemed National Staff team,
As we bid farewell to 2023, I find great pride in recounting our shared journey. Your unwavering commitment and dedication have served as the foundation for our successes of the past year.
We extend a warm welcome to the new national staff colleagues who joined the UN team in 2023.
Management’s commitment to nurturing the growth and capabilities of our national staff has led to several reassignments and temporary assignments with eight of our national staff colleagues promoted to National Officer positions.
In recognition of our hard work and dedication, substantial salary increments were implemented in April. This was made possible through the collaborative efforts of our dedicated team and management’s commitment to fair compensation.
Responding to the evolving needs of our staff, the Global General Service Test (GGST) was discontinued, streamlining our recruitment processes and ensuring a more equitable selection.
Conscious of the importance of family planning and support, In vitro fertilization coverage for mothers is now included in our health benefits providing crucial support to our team members.
Our active engagement in the NSU Global meeting in Bamako (March) and the ICSC workshop in Nairobi (September) amplified NASA’s presence on the international stage. I am honored to have been voted as Assistant National Staff Coordinator for NSU, a testament to our leadership.
Our engagement with the International Civil Service Commission (ICSC) and the subsequent Staff Compensation Package survey were crucial in addressing staff concerns. We advocated for the Education Grant (EG) for National Staff, and the matter was presented before the ICSC for consideration during the Global meeting.
Initiating the NASA-Fund contribution marks a significant step towards achieving our financial goals as a Union. As of now, we have achieved a quarter of our target.
Regrettably, we acknowledge the departure of valued members and their immediate family members. Our thoughts are with their families during these challenging times.
Let us observe a moment of silence as we collectively remember and honor our departed colleagues and their family members. May their souls rest in eternal peace.
As we anticipate the challenges and triumphs that 2024 will undoubtedly bring, our focus remains steadfast on the following key plans and initiatives:
Continued Engagement with MONUSCO to create an environment where the interests and needs of each party are effectively addressed and aligned, ensuring a positive and beneficial outcome for everyone involved.
Building the NASA Fund and we kindly urge each one of you to contribute promptly, as your timely payments significantly contribute to the success of our collective efforts.
Expanding our involvement in global events for sustained and meaningful engagement with international forums.
Prioritizing staff wellbeing and we strongly encourage your active participation in the organization’s welfare programs.
Exploring and advocating for benefits and opportunities for our national staff.
The unexpected closure of MINUSMA and UNITAMS presented a significant challenge. As management navigated the complexities of scalability, our focus on ensuring our staff not only retain gainful employment but also receive enhanced benefits to cope with the continuously rising cost of living underscores our collective commitment to adaptability and resilience in the face of unforeseen changes.
Addressing any potential decline in morale and fostering a sense of unity among the staff is a continuous challenge that demands ongoing attention and innovative solutions.
In conclusion, I extend my deepest gratitude to each member and leaders of the NASA team for your dedication, passion, and hard work throughout 2023. Special thanks to our Director RSCE, Mr. Paulin Djomo Metanhi, and Director Mission Support MONUSCO, Mr. Ebrima Ceesay for championing our cause and fostering a collaborative working environment. This level of engagement is essential for creating a better working relationship.
As we embrace the holiday season, I wish you all joy, peace, and a prosperous New Year. May our collective efforts continue to brighten the path to a brighter future for NASA and the UN organization.
Warm regards,
Madinah Mbabazi Baker, NASA President
