Zambia gained independence on 24th October 1964. I was in Zambia in October 2023 on Independence Day and my tailor Ireen presented me with this shirt celebrating Zambian Independence. Like many of my shirts, you get a better view from behind!!
Traditionally the start of the rainy season is meant to be 24th October. This year the rains arrived at about this time, though they have been a bit erratic. Overall the signs are better for a decent crop this year.
The 2023/2024 season was disastrous. Very few crops survived in the Southern Region of Zambia - of which Monze is a part. The rain was so poor that throughout most of 2024 electricity has been rationed. In June/July I experienced 6 hours of power followed by 12 hours without, throughout my stay. Apart from the inconvenience caused, this creates chaos for business and can be disasastrous. At my accommodation and at PIZZ School the water pumps both burned out – possibly because the boreholes ran dry.
As always any challenges hit the poorest the most. Food prices have risen and local grown crops are virtually non-existent. PIZZ has tried to provide larger portions for the school meals because the children have been even hungrier than usual.
The money you give to Transformation Through Education is used to support the children at PIZZ school – including free daily school meals.
Best wishes,
Chris Barrell
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