Four UNICEF colleagues were killed in the attack on a UN vehicle in Garowe, Somalia on 20 April. Among them were two staff working in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative – and for some, our cherished friends – delivering Polio, Routine Immunization and Communication programmes in Somalia. Payenda Gul had been a polio eradicator since 1999, working to protect children in Afghanistan, Nigeria and Somalia. Brenda Kyeyune had joined the team in 2014, working to make sure communities are engaged in polio eradication.

The commitment of these colleagues to achieving polio eradication and improving children’s lives was tested in the most challenging circumstances and they were never found wanting. They are true heroes. This is a tremendously difficult time but we are deeply thankful for their accomplishments, and remember them with respect and gratitude.

Comments can be submitted to the UNICEF condolence book that has been opened in New York by email to icon@unicef.org