Ghana staff member learning CPR (pre-COVID-19)

When the COVID pandemic broke out three months into 2020, MEDA – like many development organizations – moved quickly in response. We brought staff back from overseas. Shuttered our offices. Stopped all but essential field activity. Our operations – both head office and field - shifted to a virtual model. All staff started working from home.

Blog initially published on Humentum.

In September this year, Director of Global Security with MEDA Scott Ruddick, presented a Solution Session at OpEx365, our transformative year of virtual learning. The following blog provides an overview of the topic covered: transitioning field operations from lockdown to phased resumption based on MEDA's approach.

When the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in March 2020, MEDA – like many INGOs – moved quickly in response. Staff overseas from their home location were brought back. All of our operations – both head office and field - shifted to remote work/work from home protocols. We closed our offices, stopped all but the most essential of field activity, and required staff to work virtually.

Security at MEDA – always an important part of operations – has taken on an even more critical role as we navigate the COVID pandemic. Scott Ruddick, MEDA’s security director and the individual responsible for directing the security response to the pandemic, credits the project security focal points ( SFP) for helping to ensure staff safety.