Joan Kogo, a mental health activity manager for doctors without borders (MSF) in Sudan says her experiences have been a mix of highs and lows.

The conflict, which began on April 15, has left top UN officials expressing their shock at increasing sexual violence against women and girls.

The crisis has left thousands of people killed, forced millions to flee their homes

Calls for a cease-fire from the international community have fallen on deaf ears as fighting extends to nearly three months.

The conflict, which began on April 15, has left top UN officials expressing their shock at increasing sexual violence against women and girls.

The crisis has left thousands of people killed, forced millions to flee their homes and caused a humanitarian crisis.

“Sudan’s bordering countries must immediately lift entry restrictions for individuals fleeing the conflict in the country and ensure access to protection and safety for about half a million people who have already fled,” Amnesty International said in a statement.

Joan Kogo, a mental health activity manager for doctors without borders in Sudan says her experiences have been a mix of highs and lows.

Her assignment spans across different states in Sudan responding to emergencies and providing vital support in regions like West Darfur and Central Darfur.

Her main responsibility has been to strengthen and introduce mental health activities, ensuring that quality services are delivered according to their protocols.

She says working in conflict-affected areas means witnessing extreme suffering and deprivation. In her own words, witnessing the immense physical and emotional pain endured by individuals affected by conflict can be overwhelming and emotionally draining.

“Sometimes, there are instances where we are unable to reach everyone in need due to access constraints or security risks, and this poses its own set of challenges,” she says.

Kogo recalls that when the war broke out, she assumed it was a temporary precautionary measure.