In Tunisia, climate change and economic challenges put a strain on communities’ livelihoods. Yet, behind the scenes, the dedicated efforts of individuals like UN Volunteers Wafa Hmadi and Takwa Khelifi serving with the World Food Programme (WFP) in Tunisia, drives impactful change. From developing innovative climate adaptation projects to producing engaging public campaigns, these volunteers are not only supporting WFP’s mission. They also inspire a future where nutritious food and sustainable livelihoods are within everyone’s reach.
As a Resilience & Emergency Preparedness Program Associate, Wafa has been a driving force behind resilience-building efforts, helping at-risk communities prepare for and adapt to future challenges. “I have provided technical support and assisted in the development of various activities and processes of adaptation fund project submission, including emergency preparedness and response, resilience, and climate change adaptation, ensuring alignment with wider Program policies and guidelines,” she explained.
At the heart of her work is an ambitious project designed to strengthen livelihood security of the most vulnerable people in the Governate of Tozeur. Leading its design and data collection, Wafa played a key role in developing the project’s concept note and submitting the proposal to funding partners. Focused on enhancing nutritional resilience, this project is set to enable local communities to adapt to the impact of climate change, ensuring their long-term nutritional resilience.
Through her work, she’s not only helping to secure funding, but she’s also laying the ground for inclusive, sustainable interventions that empower women, youth and vulnerable groups. “To ensure that our programs are inclusive and accessible, we adopt a participatory approach that involves local communities, government partners, and other stakeholders from the outset, explains Wafa.
By engaging with local stakeholders, we can tailor our interventions to be culturally appropriate and relevant, ensuring that no one is left behind.” -- Wafa Hamdi -- UN Volunteer Resilience & Emergency Preparedness Associate, WFP Tunisia.
As a Communications Associate, Takwa’s role is pivotal in raising awareness about nutritional resilience and promoting healthy nutritional habits and responsible consumption. Her multifaceted work spans strategic communication, content production, and stakeholder engagement.
One of her standout contributions was her work on a programme which aims to reduce food waste while promoting healthier eating habits across the country. Implementing social and behavioral change strategies, she contributed to the production of a 16-episodes sitcom, set to air on national TV, to raise awareness about food consumption, local products, and the importance of reducing bread waste. “The sitcom is anticipated to be a significant cultural touchstone, blending entertainment with educational messages about nutrition and local food products,” notes Takwa.
Furthermore, Takwa has played a significant role in another programme for accelerating progress towards economic empowerment for rural women, by helping to highlight the connection between women’s empowerment, nutritional resilience, and sustainable agriculture. She also recently undertook a temporary assignment with WFP Headquarters, where she managed WFP's Global Influencer Programme. This role involved working with Goodwill Ambassadors, chefs, celebrities, and social media influencers to amplify WFP’s global visibility and drive greater public engagement.
Wafa and Takwa’s work exemplifies the invaluable contributions that UN Volunteers make to nutritional resilience efforts in Tunisia. Their stories are a reminder that nutritional well-being is complex, yet with dedication and innovation, it is possible to build a more equitable and resilient future. Through their efforts, UN Volunteers are not just addressing immediate nutritional challenges — they are laying the groundwork for stronger, more adaptable communities that can thrive amid future uncertainties.