Saturday 23rd August
This afternoon Dilys rang to tell me that my friend Danny died yesterday. Deaths here in Zambia are only too common but Danny's death serves as a reminder that even in the UK we are not guaranteed a long life. Danny was no more than in his early 40s. I met him in the early 1990s when I was organising a pilgrimage to Lourdes and we have been friends ever since. During the time I have known him he has lived at the Leonard Cheshire Home in Cheltenham. He was born with Spina Bifida and as a consequence was reliant on a wheelchair to move around. He was a man of good humour and we always enjoyed some friendly banter, which always produced plenty of laughter. He had a very caring nature and was always ready to provide support where he thought it was needed. He will be sadly missed by many and I have lost another good friend.
On Friday I thought I would say hallo to Constance and send an e-mail or two from the NFU (Farmer's Union) Internet cafe. Constance was not in (Now I realise why I met her at the hospital!) and after an hour I gave up trying to open my e-mail account.
The Jacaranda is beginning to come into bloom. The outgoing team remarked on the wonderful colour of the blossom – a beautiful deep blue. In fact it will be a few more weeks before it is at its peak – I might even post a picture to let you see. After a couple of years plus, I have seen an icon for inserting pictures in the blog – my claim is that it is a recent upgrade. Anyway I will see if I can brighten the blog with the occasional photo in future – maybe even on this blog.
This evening it felt warm in the house. That is I could do with an open window - if I find one with a decent mosi net over it I might give it a go. However, the weather continues to be cooler than I remember at this time of year. Many people still wear jumpers and jackets early in the morning, though I am comfortable in shirt sleeves.
I visited Pemba today to see Jennipher, her family and how her home is developing. She first gave me a tour of Pemba clinic. She is now based there in her new role. I was interested to know that she has been given the task of tracking 36 defaulters which she will do during the next week, though without a bike it might not be possible to reach the more distant clients. It struck me last year that this was work better given to local groups than attempted from Monze Hospital. She also told me that they were now doing reviews and giving out ARVs at Pemba Clinic which I believe is a real step forward – and I suspect that Jennipher has had an influence on this. She was described to me today by one of the doctors as 'a little warrior' and I think he is right. Jennipher has found her mission in life and is determined to improve the lives of those living with AIDS.
When I arrived at her house I was greeted by Selina running into my arms. More subdued was Rachel who is 11 years old. Rachel escaped from Zimbabwe with 3 other children after witnessing some horrific events in that country. One of the children died on the way and another girl, and her newborn baby died in Pemba during the past couple of weeks, as I reported in a previuos blog. The other child Mike - a boy of about 13 – was away playing football with his team when I visited today. Jennipher has arranged for Rachel & Mike to attend school along with Selina and Sandra. The house is looking good and the water is still flowing from the tap – though, as I expected, they are about to start charging for its use.
Soloman is doing a good job in the garden – the tomatoes are growing well though some pests are attacking them before they ripen, there is rape and a similar plant they call 'five years' which grows shoots that can be cut and used to provide more plants. He has also planted carrots, onions and okra though these have only recently been sown. At the moment the hose doesn't quite reach the garden so the final stage of watering is done with containers.
I saw the well where the tragic death of Chimunya occurred. I am very keen that it is mended and properly capped so that no similar disaster can happen in the future.
Jennipher has lots of good ideas for helping her group. She wants to set up a small shelter which can be used as a creche/nursery for the young children. The mothers will take turns at looking after the children, while the others try to earn a little money to support themselves. Jennipher is keen that this shelter is not on her land in order to make it clear that it isn't 'hers' but for the whole community. She was told that sorting out the defaulters would be a lot easier with a computer. (A simple database seems to be the answer!). She also likes the idea of a machine to make hydroform bricks both for the groups buildings but also to sell the bricks and generate some money. I am reminded just how much work there is here and how easily I can be fully occupied outside of the hospital. There are a lot of little projects that need relatively small injections of cash to produce significant effects for the people here.
On the way to the 'bus stop' I met a man I knew from last year and he told me he was hungry. I am told that no one in this area had any harvest this year. Jennipher took me to a house where some fruits she talked about were growing. There we met a group of children eating nshima and a little relish. She said that they would move around to find someone who would give them something to eat. The owner of this property was working and was able to buy some mealie meal (the maize flour used to make nshima). What is worrying is that this is August and the next crop will not be harvested till at least March. There will be a lot of hungry people around here until then and it will obviously become worse as the months go by. Jennipher said that some people will have to live of some of the wild fruits that grow on the trees in the bush.
On the way home in the bus, I chatted to a guy who farmed some land near Mazabuka. He is very interested in organic farming but said he didn't know the techniques. He has 17 hectares of land which he says he cannot fully farm. Last weekend I stayed on the land of a farmer who had decided to grow 30 hectares of wheat this year, out of his land which extends to 2,500 hectares – he was white!
I was in the market when Dilys called. As I returned to my house the sun – huge and bright red was setting transforming the previously uniformly blue sky. What an amazing and complicated world this is!
With my love and my prayers
Chris
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Thursday, August 21, 2008
The Death of a much respected President
Wednesday 20th August
It is a Catholic tradition to celebrate good examples of people of faith who we believe are receiving their reward in heaven. Today is St. Bernard's feast day he was a thirteenth century saint. Since it is also a tradition to take a saint's name at baptism (or christening) we can often get an extra celebration on the saint's feast day. I think that it is my uncle's birthday today and since he is called Bernard he has a double reason to celebrate but misses out on a second occasion. St. Christopher unfortunately has been removed from the calendar of saints and therefore I don't get a second excuse!
Yesterday President Levy Mwanawasa died. I suspect that he has been kept alive on a life support machine for the past 7 weeks and it was time that nature was allowed to take its natural course. President Mwanawasa was generally considered to have done a good job here and was half way through his third term of office. He was well respected around the world and enabled Zambia to be one of those countries that qualified for Debt Relief. This has made a difference. For instance hospital workers owed pay and allowances over many years are now receiving these payments. One of the results is that some are now able to return to Monze to retire and many buildings are going up stimulating the economy here. The mood at the hospital has been a bit subdued as a result – many feel a great loss and had a great affection for him. May he rest in peace.
Last night the Team hosted a farewell party. It was never going to be a loud and fun filled event – which in the circumstances was just as well. In fact it turned out to be an extremely moving event. I felt a little out of place not quite belonging to either the team or to the resident population – though feeling a certain affinity with both groups. It made me think of my position now in this world were I live in between the UK and Zambia, not fully belonging to either place. It was very clear that the HATW team were held in great affection by the local people – the children singing a farewell song had tears in their eyes – (probably together with everyone else present). Many moving tributes were paid to both groups who had bonded and formed a unique community over the past three weeks. I must say that everything I have seen tells me that the Team have been true ambassadors for the Charity and the UK. It is never easy for a group of seven to live together for three weeks but this team seemed very comfortable together and fitted into this world very well. Today they left for a couple of well-earned days break in Livingstone before returning to the UK at the weekend. I hope they have a great time and the weather back in the UK perks up so that it isn't too much of a shock to the system.
My job now is to support Mrs. Sianga to see the building completed and eventually to ensure the long-term future of the school through adequate funding. Hopefully you will be hearing about the progress in subsequent years in this blog.
It was back to the hospital today to look at further modification of the stock control system for use in the School. Reymond came around and I was able to pass on a donation which should ensure that those who lost their houses in the flood have a roof over their head before the rainy season. He joined me for a meal which I afraid was not my best! I attempted to replicate some 'relish' served up to us on Monday and I need more practice!!
Best wishes
Chris
It is a Catholic tradition to celebrate good examples of people of faith who we believe are receiving their reward in heaven. Today is St. Bernard's feast day he was a thirteenth century saint. Since it is also a tradition to take a saint's name at baptism (or christening) we can often get an extra celebration on the saint's feast day. I think that it is my uncle's birthday today and since he is called Bernard he has a double reason to celebrate but misses out on a second occasion. St. Christopher unfortunately has been removed from the calendar of saints and therefore I don't get a second excuse!
Yesterday President Levy Mwanawasa died. I suspect that he has been kept alive on a life support machine for the past 7 weeks and it was time that nature was allowed to take its natural course. President Mwanawasa was generally considered to have done a good job here and was half way through his third term of office. He was well respected around the world and enabled Zambia to be one of those countries that qualified for Debt Relief. This has made a difference. For instance hospital workers owed pay and allowances over many years are now receiving these payments. One of the results is that some are now able to return to Monze to retire and many buildings are going up stimulating the economy here. The mood at the hospital has been a bit subdued as a result – many feel a great loss and had a great affection for him. May he rest in peace.
Last night the Team hosted a farewell party. It was never going to be a loud and fun filled event – which in the circumstances was just as well. In fact it turned out to be an extremely moving event. I felt a little out of place not quite belonging to either the team or to the resident population – though feeling a certain affinity with both groups. It made me think of my position now in this world were I live in between the UK and Zambia, not fully belonging to either place. It was very clear that the HATW team were held in great affection by the local people – the children singing a farewell song had tears in their eyes – (probably together with everyone else present). Many moving tributes were paid to both groups who had bonded and formed a unique community over the past three weeks. I must say that everything I have seen tells me that the Team have been true ambassadors for the Charity and the UK. It is never easy for a group of seven to live together for three weeks but this team seemed very comfortable together and fitted into this world very well. Today they left for a couple of well-earned days break in Livingstone before returning to the UK at the weekend. I hope they have a great time and the weather back in the UK perks up so that it isn't too much of a shock to the system.
My job now is to support Mrs. Sianga to see the building completed and eventually to ensure the long-term future of the school through adequate funding. Hopefully you will be hearing about the progress in subsequent years in this blog.
It was back to the hospital today to look at further modification of the stock control system for use in the School. Reymond came around and I was able to pass on a donation which should ensure that those who lost their houses in the flood have a roof over their head before the rainy season. He joined me for a meal which I afraid was not my best! I attempted to replicate some 'relish' served up to us on Monday and I need more practice!!
Best wishes
Chris
Bush Camp
Monday 18th August
I think that another blog posting is called for although my last has yet to be published.
At 17.30 I met the Maluba team and we headed for Tooters to pick up our transport for the next adventure. Before we got there the SAPEP vehicle stopped and Wilson the Director of the organisation introduced himself and we jumped aboard. We met Tom and his two volunteers who had just arrived on a bus from a weekend in Livingstone and (leaving them behind) made our way to the farm which was to be our destination for the night.
We were all treated to a sumptuous supper before moving down to the camp where a fire was already blazing. Straw had been laid for our mattress, but before turning in we got to know each other through a few 'ice-breakers' – with all parties taking an active part. It was well beyond midnight when some of us hit the hay (literally!). The moon was full and the whole night was bathed in bright light clearer enough to allow you to find your way about without the need of a torch. I find the moon shadow truly beautiful and with the moon high the trees painted a complex pattern on the ground below. Occasionally during the night I woke momentarily to see the bright glow above and a silhouetted landscape in front. The only sounds were from the cicadas and other occasional nocturnal creatures chatting to each other. A little before 6 hrs the moonlight was gradually joined by its daytime, even brighter, companion. Despite only a short night I had no inclination to lie in. So before breakfast I joined Nigel and Peter for a stroll down to the river. We spent some time there and I felt that I could have happily spent the whole day sitting on the bank. The sun rose gently bathing us in warm sunshine in this idyllic setting. A kingfisher flew past and perched on a branch a little way upstream. After checking whether breakfast was ready at 8hrs I returned to the river until it arrived at about 9hrs.
Breakfast comprised nshima porridge with homemade jam, omelette, toast and tea. We were truly being spoilt in a great variety of ways.
After breakfast we piled aboard the project vehicle and headed out to a village a few kilometres further down the dirt road. The final kilometre or two being covered on foot with our lunchtime picnic being carried with us. On arrival, as is the tradition, we were warmly greeted with sining and dancing. Our base was a school were everyone introduced themselves to each other. For the remainder of the day we were treated to various presentations to demonstrate the way of life in the village. This included information about herbs by the local herbalist and traditional healer, a demonstration of a dance they do to ask the spirits to give good rain, another showing us the techniques used in thatching – we even had a chance to enter a goat corral which was built with information provided by SAPEP. Many other exhibitions and demonstrations were put on to show us the local customs, cooking, handicrafts etc. A lot of work had been put in to help us understand the local culture and traditions and it was a real privilege to be among the many smiling faces. SAPEP put on a sketch with the help of their local volunteers and discussed the issues about HIV/AIDS that were raised.
After a very interesting day we left to return to the farmouse and collect our luggage. After a cup of tea and muffins we made our way back home to Monze.
I had a call from Jennipher while I was with SAPEP but didn't want to take it at that time. This evening I called her to find out that the mother of the baby who died a few days ago had also died. She was in fact one of Jennipher's relatives who had escaped the trauma of Zimbabwe and was living at her house as part of her extended family. It is heartbreaking to think of the suffering that this girl had gone through in the final months of her short life. For Jennipher two more funerals within a week.
Again my life here continues to be a roller coaster of emotions. So tired but grateful for an incredible few days I will say bye and get ready for an early night!
Chris
I think that another blog posting is called for although my last has yet to be published.
At 17.30 I met the Maluba team and we headed for Tooters to pick up our transport for the next adventure. Before we got there the SAPEP vehicle stopped and Wilson the Director of the organisation introduced himself and we jumped aboard. We met Tom and his two volunteers who had just arrived on a bus from a weekend in Livingstone and (leaving them behind) made our way to the farm which was to be our destination for the night.
We were all treated to a sumptuous supper before moving down to the camp where a fire was already blazing. Straw had been laid for our mattress, but before turning in we got to know each other through a few 'ice-breakers' – with all parties taking an active part. It was well beyond midnight when some of us hit the hay (literally!). The moon was full and the whole night was bathed in bright light clearer enough to allow you to find your way about without the need of a torch. I find the moon shadow truly beautiful and with the moon high the trees painted a complex pattern on the ground below. Occasionally during the night I woke momentarily to see the bright glow above and a silhouetted landscape in front. The only sounds were from the cicadas and other occasional nocturnal creatures chatting to each other. A little before 6 hrs the moonlight was gradually joined by its daytime, even brighter, companion. Despite only a short night I had no inclination to lie in. So before breakfast I joined Nigel and Peter for a stroll down to the river. We spent some time there and I felt that I could have happily spent the whole day sitting on the bank. The sun rose gently bathing us in warm sunshine in this idyllic setting. A kingfisher flew past and perched on a branch a little way upstream. After checking whether breakfast was ready at 8hrs I returned to the river until it arrived at about 9hrs.
Breakfast comprised nshima porridge with homemade jam, omelette, toast and tea. We were truly being spoilt in a great variety of ways.
After breakfast we piled aboard the project vehicle and headed out to a village a few kilometres further down the dirt road. The final kilometre or two being covered on foot with our lunchtime picnic being carried with us. On arrival, as is the tradition, we were warmly greeted with sining and dancing. Our base was a school were everyone introduced themselves to each other. For the remainder of the day we were treated to various presentations to demonstrate the way of life in the village. This included information about herbs by the local herbalist and traditional healer, a demonstration of a dance they do to ask the spirits to give good rain, another showing us the techniques used in thatching – we even had a chance to enter a goat corral which was built with information provided by SAPEP. Many other exhibitions and demonstrations were put on to show us the local customs, cooking, handicrafts etc. A lot of work had been put in to help us understand the local culture and traditions and it was a real privilege to be among the many smiling faces. SAPEP put on a sketch with the help of their local volunteers and discussed the issues about HIV/AIDS that were raised.
After a very interesting day we left to return to the farmouse and collect our luggage. After a cup of tea and muffins we made our way back home to Monze.
I had a call from Jennipher while I was with SAPEP but didn't want to take it at that time. This evening I called her to find out that the mother of the baby who died a few days ago had also died. She was in fact one of Jennipher's relatives who had escaped the trauma of Zimbabwe and was living at her house as part of her extended family. It is heartbreaking to think of the suffering that this girl had gone through in the final months of her short life. For Jennipher two more funerals within a week.
Again my life here continues to be a roller coaster of emotions. So tired but grateful for an incredible few days I will say bye and get ready for an early night!
Chris
Zambia in the Wild
Sunday 17th August
Having just returned from an amazing adventure it is difficult to think back to last Thursday!
As I have stated before life here is full of contrasts taking you from one extreme to another. It is not a grey world – life here is full of colour and powerful images – sometimes both beautiful and tragic. Like the group of ladies walking so elegantly with large plastic water containers balanced on their heads.
On Thursday I decided to spend some time outside the hospital visiting Charles to discuss his project. I hope to get time to look through his accounts and see just where the money is spent and where income is being generated. I also want to work with him to look at the vulnerabilities of his project and see if he can see any way of mitigating against some of the tragedies to hit the project in recent years. It was valuable time spent developing our relationship and exploring how we can work together to bring his dream to fruition.
Friday lunchtime I went again into samosa production and delivered the promised snack to the 'Maluba Team' who were on site busy plastering a classroom wall. They seem to be working well with the local men and the building is taking shape – one gable end is nearly complete.
I have another candidate for the Stores Database. I was accosted by the Procurement Officer of the School of Nursing and Midwifery who had spotted the database at Stores and wanted a copy. There are a few things to do to ensure that my previous work is doing exactly what is required which will occupy a bit of my time (and my rusty brain!)
So what about yesterday's adventure. During the week Luke asked me if I wanted to join him and a couple of medical students on a trip to Lochinvar. At first I wondered whether I just needed a rest on Saturday – but eventually succumbed! In 2006 I went to Lochinvar with Dilys. It was just after the death of my friend Bentoe and Luke's uncle had been injured in the accident. We invited Luke and he was invaluable helping to get us out of the sand when the pick-up got stuck. In 2004 I also drove to Lochinvar – that time I was accompanied by Emily Physiotherapist working at the hospital. On that occasion I wasn't very well and slept for two hours in the back seat of the pick-up.
So we set out at about 7hrs (only an hour later than scheduled!) in the hospital Landcruiser with Jasper at the wheel. The two medical students are studying at Southampton University and we were also joined by Thresa - a medical licentiate spending a year at Monze Mission Hospital. Katy – one of the students – wasn't feeling too good so the bouncing over very rough roads, on the way to the park, wasn't exactly what she wanted. We eventually passed through the entrance to the park, eventually gave up on getting a guide and made our own way to the hot springs, drum rocks and the baobab. The hot springs are very hot! i.e. too hot to leave a finger in for more than a second or so – the surrounding area has very rich lush tropical vegetation – a real oasis at this time of year. The drum rocks are easy to miss and only because I had been there before did faint recognition take place. The name comes from the fact that if you hit one of the rocks it makes a sound a bit like a drum – these rocks are obviously more evidence of some local volcanic activity. Baobab trees are quite common in Zambia. They look as if they have grown upside down with the roots coming out of the top instead of the bottom of the trunk. This particular Baobab has a huge girth – I am sure that 10 people would get no where near hugging it! Another feature is that the trunk is hollow so our complete party of six could fit within it.
Having had an interesting and gentle introduction to Lochinvar we made our way to the Lagoon viewing troops of monkeys and getting fleeting glimpses of KafueLechwe (an indigenous antelope) en-route. A drive by the lagoon brought us close to a variety of water loving birds. The huge Maribou Stork and many Egrets walked at the waters edge and in the distance Lechwe grazed and paddled in the shallows. We passed a pair of beautiful African Fish Eagles who sat undisturbed on the branches of a tree close by as we passed. We then sat and picnicked admiring the view and wildlife while had a confrontation with a water monitor lizard on the shore – fortunately he got away with nothing but a fright!
Luke asked some rangers the best way to go to spot some wildlife and so we set off in pursuit, having failed to find the route we tried again and this time abandoned the vehicle a bit and walked back to the shore. I had an idea that you could see hippos a little further up the lagoon but Katy wasn't up to a long walk so we returned to the car to make another attempt at finding a suitable route. Once again we came across our rangers – this time at another location. They tried again to describe the route and asked whether we would mind going half way up our legs in mud! Eventually one decide to join us in the back of the car. It was as well we had a guide because for the next 15 – 20 minutes we drove mainly across a plain with the faintest suggestion of tyre tracks here and there. Our guide obviously new the plain in minute detail. He directed us around the boggiest bits and as we progressed we saw more troops of monkeys, a herd of zebra easily visible with the naked eye and large herds of Lechwe at a little distance, A Secrtary bird with it's haughty stance tiptoed by – as if in stilettos . Eventually we stopped and disembarked – after some of us took the opportunity for a better view from on top of the cab!
We soon found out about the mud! A muddy stream formed a small barrier about 3-4 metres across. Having been promised a siting of hippos the group was keen but when the ranger walked through the stinking black mud (now we realised why he wore wellingtons!) few were keen to follow. Being rather more daft than the others I saw no problem in following and was soon on the other side my lower legs now being the same colour as my African Friends and my sandals sliding under my feet. Still there was a lot of reluctance from the other bank until the ranger removed his wellingtons and waded back handing them to each member of our group in turn and helping them across in safety and relative cleanliness (unlike my state!). A few lapwing seemed to find the whole exercise most amusing and laughed at us loudly..
Now we were moving across the plain back towards the lagoon and closer to the animals. The next couple of hours were breathtaking! We were surrounded by herds of antelopes – mainly Lechwe but also possibly a few impala among them. Vultures adorned the trees, wattled cranes, storks, egrets etc. flew past and browsed the vegetation. Everywhere we looked we were greeted with a feast of wildlife within a hundred metres or so and more stretching to the horizon. Unfortunately fishermen had disturbed the hippos, though we heard one bellowing in the distance. The sun set as we sat near the stream flowing from the lagoon and the Lechwe made there way home for the night in procession silhouetted against the horizon and others left into the stream and waded to the far bank.
We made our way back to the car and the moon was already lighting the sky. Our ranger could direct better without the headlights – the moon giving enough light and the field of view being greater than with the headlights on. (remember the tracks were almost invisible in daylight!)
Safely back at his station our wonderful guide gave each of us a shell – sometimes used as spoons he told us – and left us with a string full of fish that he had been given by the fishermen. I felt that it was us that should be giving out the gifts. I had realised just how important it is to accept the help of a guide. So often I want to do things myself. It isn't the first time that I have been lead to untold wonders by accepting the help of a guide.
It was about 21hrs by the time we arrived back in Monze the night becoming ever brighter as the moon rose and shed it's enchanting shadows on the earth. I had a bit of cleaning up to do before settling for the night.
I am now waiting to be taking out to a farm 30 km from Monze for a Bush Camp! What a life!!
With love and prayers
Chris
Having just returned from an amazing adventure it is difficult to think back to last Thursday!
As I have stated before life here is full of contrasts taking you from one extreme to another. It is not a grey world – life here is full of colour and powerful images – sometimes both beautiful and tragic. Like the group of ladies walking so elegantly with large plastic water containers balanced on their heads.
On Thursday I decided to spend some time outside the hospital visiting Charles to discuss his project. I hope to get time to look through his accounts and see just where the money is spent and where income is being generated. I also want to work with him to look at the vulnerabilities of his project and see if he can see any way of mitigating against some of the tragedies to hit the project in recent years. It was valuable time spent developing our relationship and exploring how we can work together to bring his dream to fruition.
Friday lunchtime I went again into samosa production and delivered the promised snack to the 'Maluba Team' who were on site busy plastering a classroom wall. They seem to be working well with the local men and the building is taking shape – one gable end is nearly complete.
I have another candidate for the Stores Database. I was accosted by the Procurement Officer of the School of Nursing and Midwifery who had spotted the database at Stores and wanted a copy. There are a few things to do to ensure that my previous work is doing exactly what is required which will occupy a bit of my time (and my rusty brain!)
So what about yesterday's adventure. During the week Luke asked me if I wanted to join him and a couple of medical students on a trip to Lochinvar. At first I wondered whether I just needed a rest on Saturday – but eventually succumbed! In 2006 I went to Lochinvar with Dilys. It was just after the death of my friend Bentoe and Luke's uncle had been injured in the accident. We invited Luke and he was invaluable helping to get us out of the sand when the pick-up got stuck. In 2004 I also drove to Lochinvar – that time I was accompanied by Emily Physiotherapist working at the hospital. On that occasion I wasn't very well and slept for two hours in the back seat of the pick-up.
So we set out at about 7hrs (only an hour later than scheduled!) in the hospital Landcruiser with Jasper at the wheel. The two medical students are studying at Southampton University and we were also joined by Thresa - a medical licentiate spending a year at Monze Mission Hospital. Katy – one of the students – wasn't feeling too good so the bouncing over very rough roads, on the way to the park, wasn't exactly what she wanted. We eventually passed through the entrance to the park, eventually gave up on getting a guide and made our own way to the hot springs, drum rocks and the baobab. The hot springs are very hot! i.e. too hot to leave a finger in for more than a second or so – the surrounding area has very rich lush tropical vegetation – a real oasis at this time of year. The drum rocks are easy to miss and only because I had been there before did faint recognition take place. The name comes from the fact that if you hit one of the rocks it makes a sound a bit like a drum – these rocks are obviously more evidence of some local volcanic activity. Baobab trees are quite common in Zambia. They look as if they have grown upside down with the roots coming out of the top instead of the bottom of the trunk. This particular Baobab has a huge girth – I am sure that 10 people would get no where near hugging it! Another feature is that the trunk is hollow so our complete party of six could fit within it.
Having had an interesting and gentle introduction to Lochinvar we made our way to the Lagoon viewing troops of monkeys and getting fleeting glimpses of KafueLechwe (an indigenous antelope) en-route. A drive by the lagoon brought us close to a variety of water loving birds. The huge Maribou Stork and many Egrets walked at the waters edge and in the distance Lechwe grazed and paddled in the shallows. We passed a pair of beautiful African Fish Eagles who sat undisturbed on the branches of a tree close by as we passed. We then sat and picnicked admiring the view and wildlife while had a confrontation with a water monitor lizard on the shore – fortunately he got away with nothing but a fright!
Luke asked some rangers the best way to go to spot some wildlife and so we set off in pursuit, having failed to find the route we tried again and this time abandoned the vehicle a bit and walked back to the shore. I had an idea that you could see hippos a little further up the lagoon but Katy wasn't up to a long walk so we returned to the car to make another attempt at finding a suitable route. Once again we came across our rangers – this time at another location. They tried again to describe the route and asked whether we would mind going half way up our legs in mud! Eventually one decide to join us in the back of the car. It was as well we had a guide because for the next 15 – 20 minutes we drove mainly across a plain with the faintest suggestion of tyre tracks here and there. Our guide obviously new the plain in minute detail. He directed us around the boggiest bits and as we progressed we saw more troops of monkeys, a herd of zebra easily visible with the naked eye and large herds of Lechwe at a little distance, A Secrtary bird with it's haughty stance tiptoed by – as if in stilettos . Eventually we stopped and disembarked – after some of us took the opportunity for a better view from on top of the cab!
We soon found out about the mud! A muddy stream formed a small barrier about 3-4 metres across. Having been promised a siting of hippos the group was keen but when the ranger walked through the stinking black mud (now we realised why he wore wellingtons!) few were keen to follow. Being rather more daft than the others I saw no problem in following and was soon on the other side my lower legs now being the same colour as my African Friends and my sandals sliding under my feet. Still there was a lot of reluctance from the other bank until the ranger removed his wellingtons and waded back handing them to each member of our group in turn and helping them across in safety and relative cleanliness (unlike my state!). A few lapwing seemed to find the whole exercise most amusing and laughed at us loudly..
Now we were moving across the plain back towards the lagoon and closer to the animals. The next couple of hours were breathtaking! We were surrounded by herds of antelopes – mainly Lechwe but also possibly a few impala among them. Vultures adorned the trees, wattled cranes, storks, egrets etc. flew past and browsed the vegetation. Everywhere we looked we were greeted with a feast of wildlife within a hundred metres or so and more stretching to the horizon. Unfortunately fishermen had disturbed the hippos, though we heard one bellowing in the distance. The sun set as we sat near the stream flowing from the lagoon and the Lechwe made there way home for the night in procession silhouetted against the horizon and others left into the stream and waded to the far bank.
We made our way back to the car and the moon was already lighting the sky. Our ranger could direct better without the headlights – the moon giving enough light and the field of view being greater than with the headlights on. (remember the tracks were almost invisible in daylight!)
Safely back at his station our wonderful guide gave each of us a shell – sometimes used as spoons he told us – and left us with a string full of fish that he had been given by the fishermen. I felt that it was us that should be giving out the gifts. I had realised just how important it is to accept the help of a guide. So often I want to do things myself. It isn't the first time that I have been lead to untold wonders by accepting the help of a guide.
It was about 21hrs by the time we arrived back in Monze the night becoming ever brighter as the moon rose and shed it's enchanting shadows on the earth. I had a bit of cleaning up to do before settling for the night.
I am now waiting to be taking out to a farm 30 km from Monze for a Bush Camp! What a life!!
With love and prayers
Chris
Friday, August 15, 2008
So many risks!
Wednesday 13th August
Life continues to be hard for the people out here. I met the hospital worker, whose house had been burnt down, last week. (he is still hoping that someone will help him rebuild his home). He had been in a road accident. Apparently he hitched a lift and was in a crash on the way back to Monze. He had broken his arm and lost a chunk out of his ear. The driver of the vehicle was killed. Another reminder just how hazardous it is to travel in this Country.
Today I met with Jennipher again. Selina had come for a review – she was worried that the doctor would make her go back to the ward and put her arm in traction again. In the event she was discharged and won't need to return. A few weeks ago Jennipher brought in someone who was pregnant and not at all well. She tested positive for HIV. Yesterday she was suffering pains and in the evening delivered a little girl but unfortunately the baby lived for only a very short period. Some local guys will make a small coffin so that the body can be buried properly. I read yesterday that, here in Zambia, for more than 1 in every 6 births the child dies before their 5th birthday.
Last week Jennipher attended a workshop to help her as a care worker. She will continue to do the work voluntarily, but she is expected to cover an area which stretches 30km from her home - hence her plea for a good bike. I have not been able to respond to the person who suggested some school children raise the money. I think it is a great idea – so if it is still on please let me know! It seems that the bike would cost about £100. (Some imported items are expensive here and the kwacha is relatively strong in respect of the pound)
The Maluba school is going up at an incredible speed. Yesterday a couple of volunteers with SAPEP joined the team for the morning. On Monday I will join the team on an outing with SAPEP when we will learn more about their work in trying to combat AIDS and see how they go about it in the villages. On Sunday evening we will join then for a 'Bush Camp'. I am very keen to understand a little more about how an NGO tackles HIV/AIDS, especially since I did a little work last year looking at the issue from the hospital's perspective.
I am currently busying myself at the hospital trying to resurrect the Stock Control system for the main stores and introducing it to the Pharmacy. My brain has been hurting trying to work out a way of keeping track of drug expiry dates. Lots of people must have cracked the problem before me but at the moment I am struggling! So if anyone out there can tell me how to do it using a Stock Control system in Access I would be very grateful!! I keep telling people that this really isn't my field of expertise.
It is amazing how I don't miss the TV here despite the Olympics being on! In fact I am glad that I haven't got easy access to one. Yet I am sure that as soon as I am back in the UK I will again be glued to it!
Bye for Now,
Chris
Life continues to be hard for the people out here. I met the hospital worker, whose house had been burnt down, last week. (he is still hoping that someone will help him rebuild his home). He had been in a road accident. Apparently he hitched a lift and was in a crash on the way back to Monze. He had broken his arm and lost a chunk out of his ear. The driver of the vehicle was killed. Another reminder just how hazardous it is to travel in this Country.
Today I met with Jennipher again. Selina had come for a review – she was worried that the doctor would make her go back to the ward and put her arm in traction again. In the event she was discharged and won't need to return. A few weeks ago Jennipher brought in someone who was pregnant and not at all well. She tested positive for HIV. Yesterday she was suffering pains and in the evening delivered a little girl but unfortunately the baby lived for only a very short period. Some local guys will make a small coffin so that the body can be buried properly. I read yesterday that, here in Zambia, for more than 1 in every 6 births the child dies before their 5th birthday.
Last week Jennipher attended a workshop to help her as a care worker. She will continue to do the work voluntarily, but she is expected to cover an area which stretches 30km from her home - hence her plea for a good bike. I have not been able to respond to the person who suggested some school children raise the money. I think it is a great idea – so if it is still on please let me know! It seems that the bike would cost about £100. (Some imported items are expensive here and the kwacha is relatively strong in respect of the pound)
The Maluba school is going up at an incredible speed. Yesterday a couple of volunteers with SAPEP joined the team for the morning. On Monday I will join the team on an outing with SAPEP when we will learn more about their work in trying to combat AIDS and see how they go about it in the villages. On Sunday evening we will join then for a 'Bush Camp'. I am very keen to understand a little more about how an NGO tackles HIV/AIDS, especially since I did a little work last year looking at the issue from the hospital's perspective.
I am currently busying myself at the hospital trying to resurrect the Stock Control system for the main stores and introducing it to the Pharmacy. My brain has been hurting trying to work out a way of keeping track of drug expiry dates. Lots of people must have cracked the problem before me but at the moment I am struggling! So if anyone out there can tell me how to do it using a Stock Control system in Access I would be very grateful!! I keep telling people that this really isn't my field of expertise.
It is amazing how I don't miss the TV here despite the Olympics being on! In fact I am glad that I haven't got easy access to one. Yet I am sure that as soon as I am back in the UK I will again be glued to it!
Bye for Now,
Chris
Monday, August 11, 2008
A retreat at Namalundu
Wednesday 6th August
Today I acted as tour guide to show some of the Team HATW around the hospital. As usual I managed to find out new things and see things I hadn't previously seen. The Ultrasound scanner was very impressive – not what I remember – but apparently it has been in the hospital for 3 years.
Yesterday the hospital stores had a nearly new computer installed to enable them to revisit the database I developed in 2004 – 6. All I have to do now is recover the database!
I have also provided a copy of the database for the Pharmacy who apparently have also been given a new computer in order to make use of it.
This evening power was off most of the evening so I decided to make a coleslaw salad and anticipate a steak sandwich when power came back. The timing of the power returning was perfect and in 5 – 10 mins the steak was ready to join the coleslaw.
Sunday 10th August
I returned from Namalundu this afternoon. Namalundu is very close to the Kafue Gorge which is where a lot of the electricity for Zambia comes from and where because of 'improvement works' we are suffering excessive 'load shedding'! I was told the the kafue river is now dry for a few miles because all of the water is being directed into a tunnel that takes it to the turbines.
However, I wasn't on a sightseeing trip but on a retreat. For those not familiar with this activity, it is an opportunity to take some time out from the general routine (or strain) of daily life and reflect on our journey in life. I had felt a real need for such time, so was delighted to be invited to join the nurses in their retreat.
The place is almost 200 km from Monze and surrounded by hills – unlike Monze. We travelled with Fr. Rodgers in his pick-up and I found a spot in the open rear of the vehicle. As usual I failed to get the hang of the timing. We were due to arrive by 17 hrs so we planned to leave at 16hrs. We left at 16.40 and had to pick someone up 'en-route' (though I was surprised when we headed a good number of kilometres along the Lochinvar Road.) Having failed to find our passenger we returned to Monze and picked her up from home. We set off again at 17.40 – by this time I suspected we were unlikely to be there in time!! In fact it was approaching 21hrs when we reached our destination.
We were of course welcomed with a hot meal (It can get a little chilly in the back of a pick-up at night – especially with the unseasonably cold weather we are currently experiencing.) The weekend was just what I needed. It allowed me to recall so many times when I have felt the touch of my God. On the first evening the resident priest told us that they often had monkeys around the area. In fact they had a problem with the building that we used as a dining room. The roof was thatched with grass – which he said was in fact the best material because it kept the place warm in the cold weather and cool in the hot season. However, the monkeys invented a game where they used the roof as a slide and slid off the roof on their bottoms. This they enjoyed immensely – but unfortunately the roof couldn't cope and after many repairs the game was ended by replacing the roof with 'iron sheets'. Having heard this tale I was keen to get a glimpse of these guys! However, I kept getting the message 'If it's God's will you'll see them at the appropriate time'. So as I was about to reflect on what I would take away from the weekend and thinking about trusting in God they appeared!
It was a great privilege to be accepted into the small group that comprised 10 of us including our chaplain and a one-year old! Retreat such as these are often times when people share deep and personal issues. This is hard enough among people you know but with a relative stranger and someone from a very different culture I imagine it could be a major issue. Anyway I felt accepted by the group and I hope that others gained from my presence as I did from theirs.
Thursday and Friday passed very fast at the hospital. I did a fair bit of running around to try to arrange a few things in relation to the Maluba project and the Team – including another tour. Thursday's tour was in marked contrast to Wednesday's – it wasn't helped by the fact that there was a funeral for the mother of one of the nurses, so most of the staff were unavailable to guide us around the departments and wards. Here funerals are very important and it isn't just close family who will attend.
On Thursday morning I succeeded to extract the latest version of the Stock Control system from the old computer and load it onto the new Stores computer and also update the one in the Pharmacy. So with luck and some hard work the systems could be up and running before I leave this year.
Best Wishes
Chris
Today I acted as tour guide to show some of the Team HATW around the hospital. As usual I managed to find out new things and see things I hadn't previously seen. The Ultrasound scanner was very impressive – not what I remember – but apparently it has been in the hospital for 3 years.
Yesterday the hospital stores had a nearly new computer installed to enable them to revisit the database I developed in 2004 – 6. All I have to do now is recover the database!
I have also provided a copy of the database for the Pharmacy who apparently have also been given a new computer in order to make use of it.
This evening power was off most of the evening so I decided to make a coleslaw salad and anticipate a steak sandwich when power came back. The timing of the power returning was perfect and in 5 – 10 mins the steak was ready to join the coleslaw.
Sunday 10th August
I returned from Namalundu this afternoon. Namalundu is very close to the Kafue Gorge which is where a lot of the electricity for Zambia comes from and where because of 'improvement works' we are suffering excessive 'load shedding'! I was told the the kafue river is now dry for a few miles because all of the water is being directed into a tunnel that takes it to the turbines.
However, I wasn't on a sightseeing trip but on a retreat. For those not familiar with this activity, it is an opportunity to take some time out from the general routine (or strain) of daily life and reflect on our journey in life. I had felt a real need for such time, so was delighted to be invited to join the nurses in their retreat.
The place is almost 200 km from Monze and surrounded by hills – unlike Monze. We travelled with Fr. Rodgers in his pick-up and I found a spot in the open rear of the vehicle. As usual I failed to get the hang of the timing. We were due to arrive by 17 hrs so we planned to leave at 16hrs. We left at 16.40 and had to pick someone up 'en-route' (though I was surprised when we headed a good number of kilometres along the Lochinvar Road.) Having failed to find our passenger we returned to Monze and picked her up from home. We set off again at 17.40 – by this time I suspected we were unlikely to be there in time!! In fact it was approaching 21hrs when we reached our destination.
We were of course welcomed with a hot meal (It can get a little chilly in the back of a pick-up at night – especially with the unseasonably cold weather we are currently experiencing.) The weekend was just what I needed. It allowed me to recall so many times when I have felt the touch of my God. On the first evening the resident priest told us that they often had monkeys around the area. In fact they had a problem with the building that we used as a dining room. The roof was thatched with grass – which he said was in fact the best material because it kept the place warm in the cold weather and cool in the hot season. However, the monkeys invented a game where they used the roof as a slide and slid off the roof on their bottoms. This they enjoyed immensely – but unfortunately the roof couldn't cope and after many repairs the game was ended by replacing the roof with 'iron sheets'. Having heard this tale I was keen to get a glimpse of these guys! However, I kept getting the message 'If it's God's will you'll see them at the appropriate time'. So as I was about to reflect on what I would take away from the weekend and thinking about trusting in God they appeared!
It was a great privilege to be accepted into the small group that comprised 10 of us including our chaplain and a one-year old! Retreat such as these are often times when people share deep and personal issues. This is hard enough among people you know but with a relative stranger and someone from a very different culture I imagine it could be a major issue. Anyway I felt accepted by the group and I hope that others gained from my presence as I did from theirs.
Thursday and Friday passed very fast at the hospital. I did a fair bit of running around to try to arrange a few things in relation to the Maluba project and the Team – including another tour. Thursday's tour was in marked contrast to Wednesday's – it wasn't helped by the fact that there was a funeral for the mother of one of the nurses, so most of the staff were unavailable to guide us around the departments and wards. Here funerals are very important and it isn't just close family who will attend.
On Thursday morning I succeeded to extract the latest version of the Stock Control system from the old computer and load it onto the new Stores computer and also update the one in the Pharmacy. So with luck and some hard work the systems could be up and running before I leave this year.
Best Wishes
Chris
Friday, August 8, 2008
It's a wonderful world if you listen carefully
Saturday 2nd August
My reading material is helping me to listen more attentively to what is around me. I believe that it is important to 'listen' with all the senses, too often when we just look we see very little. I have been noticing the wheelbarrows. Some time ago I mentioned the trunks in which goods are delivered to the market stalls each morning and I 'assumed' that wheelbarrows would be the preferred form of transport. I wonder how often I have seen them carrying their cargo but not taken it in? Not only are wheelbarrows indeed the form of transport but not just any wheelbarrow but barrows made for the purpose. Trunks would slip off a traditional barrow so these have no 'sleeping compartment' but appropriately formed bars hold the load secure – and some trunks will hold quite a load. I have now seen a vast variety of wheelbarrows – some will hold buckets and others are geared for other loads.
I pass some cages which contain live birds but only recently have really noticed just how many cages and birds are just a few yards from my home. Most are chickens but cages full of guinea fowl and turkeys are also present. It might seem cruel and the birds are often roughly handled yet in the UK most of our chickens are held in the most appalling conditions. Here the reality of the meat we eat is not hidden. Just along the road from the Holy Family Centre is the Abbatoir and the butcher will tell you the day to come if you want very fresh meat. My friend Alick showed me the barn where the 'broilers' were being fattened – they were 3 or 4 weeks old. I asked him when they would be ready for the pot and he said they would start slaughtering them next week. There is a lot more honesty about these issues here.
As I returned from the market this evening darkness was falling and in front of me the moon was chasing Venus across the sky. I wondered whether the fine upturned crescent was a new moon or one just about to vanish – a hour or so later it had vanished! Again I took the opportunity to admire the array of stars visible during 'light's out'. The Southern Cross is clearly visible these days in the early evening sitting above my home clearly showing the points of the compass.
Today I spent much of the day producing samosas. Not that I have started a small income-generating scheme – though from what Dilys tells me about the increases to fuel bills, I probably need one. Today our Small Christian Community were celebrating St. Veronica's feast day with a Catholic mass followed by some food and drinks. We were all asked to contribute something so my contribution was a few samosas. Fr. Maambo – the priest in charge at Our Lady of the Wayside celebrated mass. (Our Lady of the Wayside has 9 Small Christian Communities within it and St. Veronica's is one) After the festivities some of the children asked me to 'copy' them with my camera. As I was showing them the resultant pictures my 'phone rang and Dilys was on the line. The scene was a little surreal with me surrounded my laughing excited children in one of the poorest area of urban Monze, while trying to hold a conversation with my wife 5,000 miles away!
This evening I finished using up the mixture for the samosas taking the final tally to about 70 for the day!
Monday 4th August
It is another holiday today. This time the Lwiindi ceremony is taking place – apparently the ceremony is called Lwiindi and the place is Gonde which is regarded as a sacred site. As on previous occasions I have been promised that I will be taken to see this traditional event. In previous years this promise has come to nothing – we shall see if this year is any different.
Yesterday I wanted a walk in the bush. In practice I walked to my 'dam', after getting a few photos of the Maluba site before it is completed! I thought that I should take heed of the messages coming from my reading and try to be aware of everything that was happening as I sat for a ½ hour by the lake. I was amazed just how much was going on, from wherligig beetles rushing around in circles next to a yellow trumpet shaped flower, to a pair of grey herons moving around the lakeside (including standing quite close to me so that I didn't feel any loss being without my binoculars), some ladies were washing their clothes and a pig 'nosed' in the shallows, and egrets and African Jacanas reminded me that I wasn't in England. There was not a second when the place was not filled with activity, in fact it was difficult to take it all in. Even the weather was playing the game, with clouds hiding the sun and then letting it peep out again before once again covering its face. Wind would come and go sending small waves to join the grass and trees in musical combination. How often we look and yet do not see!
I was on my way to meet Charles after my meditation, so I decide to take a short cut. Charles lives just off the Lusaka/Livingstone Road which runs North to South. I therefore reasoned that, as I was west of the road, if I walked to the east I would eventually hit the road and, since I was already to the south of Monze, I should hit it close to Charles home. Being now 15.30 the sun was beginning to drop to the west thus following my shadow I had everything sussed! Unfortunately I had forgotten that just outside the town the road bends and heads in a more easterly direction. So when I eventually hit the road I was a couple of kilometres closer to Livingstone than I had hoped.
For those not familiar with my antics in Monze, Charles runs a small organisation (PEASSA) that aims to support some of the most vulnerable elderly and disabled people in Monze. Over the past few years I have come to know Charles and his project well. Unfortunately a succession of problems beyond his control have made progress very difficult. These have included erratic water supply from SWASCO (the water company) causing the vegetables to fail, contaminated feed killing the chickens, and disease preventing the pigs going to market. This last year has seen the total maize crop destroyed by the excessive rainfall. In addition 12 of the 17 people currently being supported have had their houses destroyed by the floods. (Charles is hoping to raise 900,000 – 1,000,000 kwacha (£140 -£150) which he believes will build twelve very simple houses made mainly of mud bricks and grass thatch to replace those destroyed)
I have been trying to work with Charles to develop the project into a self-sustaining operation. However, in the short term, investment is needed to generate the income needed for expansion.With support from home we have managed to obtain a pair of oxen and a plough and built a well on one site. This year charles has obtained another piece of land but he cannot develop it yet through lack of funds. The manager would like to build a well but I wouldn't want them to start and have it collapse when the rains come. About £150 - £200 is likely to be needed to ensure that it can be dug and the sides reinforced with concrete rings. At this new site they also have a plough but no oxen to pull it.
The main issue at the moment is the lack of moey to buy maize seed and fertiliser. They have enough land to plant a 50kg bag of seed but at a cost of about 4.5 million kwacha (£700) but they have no way to finance it. As well as potentially providing both an income and food for those supported, growing maize is an essential way of life for the Tonga people, so not to attempt to grow maize is unthinkable.
I have been working with a small group of ex-colleagues from Eagle Star to see how we can provide support but I think that perhaps I need to extend the group in order to try to kick start this struggling project. So if anyone would like to be directly involved in this small project in Monze I would love to hear from you – and so would Charles. If anyone fancies a holiday with a difference you couldn't do better than come out to Monze and see the place for yourself. (In case you are wondering there are even lodges here that provide en-suite rooms!)
It is now 16.30 and no sign of my lift to Gonde for the Lwiindi celebrations! I think I will make my way to the Internet Cafe instead and maybe you will get this blog sooner than expected!
Best wishes
Chris
My reading material is helping me to listen more attentively to what is around me. I believe that it is important to 'listen' with all the senses, too often when we just look we see very little. I have been noticing the wheelbarrows. Some time ago I mentioned the trunks in which goods are delivered to the market stalls each morning and I 'assumed' that wheelbarrows would be the preferred form of transport. I wonder how often I have seen them carrying their cargo but not taken it in? Not only are wheelbarrows indeed the form of transport but not just any wheelbarrow but barrows made for the purpose. Trunks would slip off a traditional barrow so these have no 'sleeping compartment' but appropriately formed bars hold the load secure – and some trunks will hold quite a load. I have now seen a vast variety of wheelbarrows – some will hold buckets and others are geared for other loads.
I pass some cages which contain live birds but only recently have really noticed just how many cages and birds are just a few yards from my home. Most are chickens but cages full of guinea fowl and turkeys are also present. It might seem cruel and the birds are often roughly handled yet in the UK most of our chickens are held in the most appalling conditions. Here the reality of the meat we eat is not hidden. Just along the road from the Holy Family Centre is the Abbatoir and the butcher will tell you the day to come if you want very fresh meat. My friend Alick showed me the barn where the 'broilers' were being fattened – they were 3 or 4 weeks old. I asked him when they would be ready for the pot and he said they would start slaughtering them next week. There is a lot more honesty about these issues here.
As I returned from the market this evening darkness was falling and in front of me the moon was chasing Venus across the sky. I wondered whether the fine upturned crescent was a new moon or one just about to vanish – a hour or so later it had vanished! Again I took the opportunity to admire the array of stars visible during 'light's out'. The Southern Cross is clearly visible these days in the early evening sitting above my home clearly showing the points of the compass.
Today I spent much of the day producing samosas. Not that I have started a small income-generating scheme – though from what Dilys tells me about the increases to fuel bills, I probably need one. Today our Small Christian Community were celebrating St. Veronica's feast day with a Catholic mass followed by some food and drinks. We were all asked to contribute something so my contribution was a few samosas. Fr. Maambo – the priest in charge at Our Lady of the Wayside celebrated mass. (Our Lady of the Wayside has 9 Small Christian Communities within it and St. Veronica's is one) After the festivities some of the children asked me to 'copy' them with my camera. As I was showing them the resultant pictures my 'phone rang and Dilys was on the line. The scene was a little surreal with me surrounded my laughing excited children in one of the poorest area of urban Monze, while trying to hold a conversation with my wife 5,000 miles away!
This evening I finished using up the mixture for the samosas taking the final tally to about 70 for the day!
Monday 4th August
It is another holiday today. This time the Lwiindi ceremony is taking place – apparently the ceremony is called Lwiindi and the place is Gonde which is regarded as a sacred site. As on previous occasions I have been promised that I will be taken to see this traditional event. In previous years this promise has come to nothing – we shall see if this year is any different.
Yesterday I wanted a walk in the bush. In practice I walked to my 'dam', after getting a few photos of the Maluba site before it is completed! I thought that I should take heed of the messages coming from my reading and try to be aware of everything that was happening as I sat for a ½ hour by the lake. I was amazed just how much was going on, from wherligig beetles rushing around in circles next to a yellow trumpet shaped flower, to a pair of grey herons moving around the lakeside (including standing quite close to me so that I didn't feel any loss being without my binoculars), some ladies were washing their clothes and a pig 'nosed' in the shallows, and egrets and African Jacanas reminded me that I wasn't in England. There was not a second when the place was not filled with activity, in fact it was difficult to take it all in. Even the weather was playing the game, with clouds hiding the sun and then letting it peep out again before once again covering its face. Wind would come and go sending small waves to join the grass and trees in musical combination. How often we look and yet do not see!
I was on my way to meet Charles after my meditation, so I decide to take a short cut. Charles lives just off the Lusaka/Livingstone Road which runs North to South. I therefore reasoned that, as I was west of the road, if I walked to the east I would eventually hit the road and, since I was already to the south of Monze, I should hit it close to Charles home. Being now 15.30 the sun was beginning to drop to the west thus following my shadow I had everything sussed! Unfortunately I had forgotten that just outside the town the road bends and heads in a more easterly direction. So when I eventually hit the road I was a couple of kilometres closer to Livingstone than I had hoped.
For those not familiar with my antics in Monze, Charles runs a small organisation (PEASSA) that aims to support some of the most vulnerable elderly and disabled people in Monze. Over the past few years I have come to know Charles and his project well. Unfortunately a succession of problems beyond his control have made progress very difficult. These have included erratic water supply from SWASCO (the water company) causing the vegetables to fail, contaminated feed killing the chickens, and disease preventing the pigs going to market. This last year has seen the total maize crop destroyed by the excessive rainfall. In addition 12 of the 17 people currently being supported have had their houses destroyed by the floods. (Charles is hoping to raise 900,000 – 1,000,000 kwacha (£140 -£150) which he believes will build twelve very simple houses made mainly of mud bricks and grass thatch to replace those destroyed)
I have been trying to work with Charles to develop the project into a self-sustaining operation. However, in the short term, investment is needed to generate the income needed for expansion.With support from home we have managed to obtain a pair of oxen and a plough and built a well on one site. This year charles has obtained another piece of land but he cannot develop it yet through lack of funds. The manager would like to build a well but I wouldn't want them to start and have it collapse when the rains come. About £150 - £200 is likely to be needed to ensure that it can be dug and the sides reinforced with concrete rings. At this new site they also have a plough but no oxen to pull it.
The main issue at the moment is the lack of moey to buy maize seed and fertiliser. They have enough land to plant a 50kg bag of seed but at a cost of about 4.5 million kwacha (£700) but they have no way to finance it. As well as potentially providing both an income and food for those supported, growing maize is an essential way of life for the Tonga people, so not to attempt to grow maize is unthinkable.
I have been working with a small group of ex-colleagues from Eagle Star to see how we can provide support but I think that perhaps I need to extend the group in order to try to kick start this struggling project. So if anyone would like to be directly involved in this small project in Monze I would love to hear from you – and so would Charles. If anyone fancies a holiday with a difference you couldn't do better than come out to Monze and see the place for yourself. (In case you are wondering there are even lodges here that provide en-suite rooms!)
It is now 16.30 and no sign of my lift to Gonde for the Lwiindi celebrations! I think I will make my way to the Internet Cafe instead and maybe you will get this blog sooner than expected!
Best wishes
Chris
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