Kimbo’s Final Drive: Celebrating 32 Years behind the wheel with UNHCR.

Ahmed Abdinoor, lovingly known as ‘Kimbo,’ reminisced about his first day on the job with a warm smile. “They asked if I could drive, and I replied, ‘This truck or an aircraft?’ And just like that, they handed me the keys!”

His laughter brightened the happy hour garden, where his colleagues had gathered to honour his remarkable 32 years of dedicated service with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in Dadaab, Kenya.

Today, admiration and gratitude filled the eyes of those he had transported safely through treacherous terrains, dangerous zones, and the scorching Dadaab sun. Kimbo’s colleagues from different departments – Administration, Supply, Protection, and Field Operations shared heartfelt stories of his tireless efforts – late-night rescues, relentless drives to remote areas, and his unwavering calm in the face of danger.

Kimbo’s journey began in 1992 at the Kenya-Somalia border in Liboi, during a time when Somali refugees were fleeing the chaos of civil war. His first assignment was to drive a powerful UNHCR truck, transporting refugees from the border to the camp in Dadaab. The journey was perilous; the roads were rough, and banditry was a constant threat.

“I remember my first trip,” he recounted. “We were moving a group of refugees from the border town of Liboi to Dadaab refugee camps. The roads were terrible, full of potholes. There was more dust than air. I told my passengers to hold on tight, as this ride will not be comfortable! Despite their dire circumstances, the refugees could not help but laugh.”

Kimbo remembered the gratitude in the eyes of the refugees as they climbed aboard his truck. Mothers clutching their children, elders with weary faces, young men and women who had lost everything but their determination to survive. He had witnessed unspeakable sorrow and incredible resilience; through it all, he felt a profound sense of purpose.

Kimbo’s stories became legendary tales of challenges overcome by the desire to save lives and give hope for a new life. “One time, we were cut off by heavy rains and ended up sleeping next to our trucks for 28 days before we were rescued.”

He had seen the best and worst of humanity, often on the same day, but never lost sight of the gravity of his work. “The tears, the hope, the laughter – it’s all part of the journey,” he reflected. “I have never seen a people more resilient than refugees. And UNHCR are a symbol of hope and relief.” His colleagues nodded, in agreement with his words.

Ahmed 'Kimbo' Abdinoor inside a UNHCR car in Dadaab, Kenya. © UNHCR/Mohamed Maalim.

Ahmed 'Kimbo' Abdinoor shakes hands with William Ejalu, Head of Dadaab Sub-office on his final day as a UNHCR driver. ©UNHCR/Mohamed Maalim.

Ahmed 'Kimbo' Abdinoor holding the keys to one of the UNHCR cars he drove in Dadaab, Kenya ©UNHCR/Mohamed Maalim.

“Thank you all. It has been an honour to work with UNHCR and to be part of something bigger than myself. I will miss this life, but I am also looking forward to spending time with my family and my beloved camels. And who knows, I may start a new business!”

“When I joined, I was a young man of thirty-two, eager to make a difference. Back then, UNHCR had enough resources to meet the growing needs of displaced populations around the world, a stark contrast to the current funding struggles. I have seen the changes firsthand. Do not give up. Keep the spirit of UNHCR alive. I pray for better times to come.”

“Tomorrow, I will hand over the keys to a younger driver, someone eager to continue the work,” added, his voice steady but filled with emotion.

“We are here to celebrate the incredible journey of a man who has not only been a colleague but a friend, a protector, and an unsung hero to so many. Kimbo, you have been a pillar in our community. Through thick and thin, you have shown what it means to serve with heart. As we bid you farewell, we also honour the legacy you are leaving behind – a legacy that will continue to inspire us all. We will miss your jokes, your stories, and your incredible driving skills. Enjoy your retirement, and do not forget to invite us for a glass of camel milk!” Said William Ejalu, UNHCR Head of Office, Dadaab.

Kimbo waved his hand jokingly. “Oh, come on now, I’m not dying!” Speeches were made, gifts were given, and many hugs were shared.

Tears welled up in his eyes as he nodded, unable to find the words to express his gratitude. As the night wore on, he realized that though his time with UNHCR was ending, the impact of his work would live on in the hearts and memories of those he had helped and the everlasting friendships he had made.

As the evening came to an end, Kimbo took one last look at the Dadaab he had known so well. Tomorrow, he would wake up to a new dawn – not as a driver for UNHCR, but as a man with a wealth of memories and a future filled with possibilities.

Thank you for the dedicated service, Kimbo!