Monday 21 October 2013
Monday 27 May 2013
The Last Adventure the Waterfall Hike
We scheduled breakfast at the late time of 9:00 am so that everybody could sleep in after yesterday's strenuous hike on Mount Kilimanjaro. After a buffet of fruit, served sausage, toast, eggs, and bacon we repacked our stuff and showered before our 11:00 a.m. hike.
"This is just an easy hike, we walk down some stairs and that's all. You can even wear flip-flops!" said Mrs. Athayde. As it turned out, either Mrs. Athayde's memory is going or we went to a different waterfall.
Our short drive ended up being a drive down a bumpy dirt road during which our driver had to make a couple of good guesses when the road split. We ended up in a dirt "parking lot" aside a field with people herding cows. Our guides showed us some banana trees, coffee bushes (from which 10 of us were able to order fresh-roasted coffee beans delivered to the hotel), lemon trees, and papaya trees. All of these were along a dirt path gaping through what looked like people's back yards. When we got close enough to hear the waterfall it sounded BIG.
At the begining of the descent to the bottom of the waterfall the guides handed out walking sticks, everybody started questioning how "easy" this hike would be. There were about 4 deep concrete steps before we started descending the mud slope. Any other "stairs" we had were sticks and stones and mud. Mama P headed back up for a different view once the path started to get worrisome (after the first 2 steps), but everyone else who came pushed onward. There was a lot of slipping but nobody actually fell. As we got closer to the bottom, the path got closer to the edge, at some points close enough to look over into rushing water.
At the bottom of the waterfall it was an amazing sight. The waterfall towered above us and within minutes we were soaking wet from the cool waterfall mist. We clambered over slippery rocks to get pictures in front of the waterfall, even though a slip could mean being swept down the rapids (Ms. Athayde would like it noted that we weren't allowed out that far and the water was only ankle deep and not actually dangerous, but it seemed exciting).
The climb back up reminded me of the Kilimanjaro hike, except with wet clothes and slippery footing. We all made it up an had a drink and captured a chameleon with our cameras. Everyone had a great last experience before the numerous plane rides home.
Written by - Kyle Ward
"This is just an easy hike, we walk down some stairs and that's all. You can even wear flip-flops!" said Mrs. Athayde. As it turned out, either Mrs. Athayde's memory is going or we went to a different waterfall.
Our short drive ended up being a drive down a bumpy dirt road during which our driver had to make a couple of good guesses when the road split. We ended up in a dirt "parking lot" aside a field with people herding cows. Our guides showed us some banana trees, coffee bushes (from which 10 of us were able to order fresh-roasted coffee beans delivered to the hotel), lemon trees, and papaya trees. All of these were along a dirt path gaping through what looked like people's back yards. When we got close enough to hear the waterfall it sounded BIG.
At the begining of the descent to the bottom of the waterfall the guides handed out walking sticks, everybody started questioning how "easy" this hike would be. There were about 4 deep concrete steps before we started descending the mud slope. Any other "stairs" we had were sticks and stones and mud. Mama P headed back up for a different view once the path started to get worrisome (after the first 2 steps), but everyone else who came pushed onward. There was a lot of slipping but nobody actually fell. As we got closer to the bottom, the path got closer to the edge, at some points close enough to look over into rushing water.
At the bottom of the waterfall it was an amazing sight. The waterfall towered above us and within minutes we were soaking wet from the cool waterfall mist. We clambered over slippery rocks to get pictures in front of the waterfall, even though a slip could mean being swept down the rapids (Ms. Athayde would like it noted that we weren't allowed out that far and the water was only ankle deep and not actually dangerous, but it seemed exciting).
The climb back up reminded me of the Kilimanjaro hike, except with wet clothes and slippery footing. We all made it up an had a drink and captured a chameleon with our cameras. Everyone had a great last experience before the numerous plane rides home.
Written by - Kyle Ward
Our Tanzania Family
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| Thank you CPAR - it was a journey we will forever hold close to our hearts. We hope to see you soon! |
A Visit to the Local Hospital
The visit to the local hospital was not for everyone, however, it was an experience I am very glad I took part in. We were given the option of going to a local hospital or to visit Gilala school. I and multiple peers decided to go to the local Lutheran hospital that Tanzanians use. We start out by meeting with the Head Doctor in his office. From there, he took us on a tour of the hospital, bringing us from ward to ward. The wards were very simple and left the people with little to no privacy. The patients here don't have nearly as much privacy as they should like Canadian hospitals. Some of the things were overwhelming to see, from a man that had his leg amputated to a child with very badly burnt hands. Families are expected to provide food for patients. As sad and as heartbreaking as it was, it also has given me far more appreciation for our medical system. We complain about waiting at emergency or at our doctors office, we are still miles ahead and I couldn't be more thankful.
Written by - Will Stewart
Written by - Will Stewart
Revisiting Gilala School
In 2010, KEC funded rainwater tanks at Gilala shool. During our Tanzania visit, we planted a grove of fruit trees with the students. One afternoon, some of the Tanzania 2013 students were able to go back to Gilala to see how the school was faring. The rainwater tanks were functioning perfectly and were carefully manitained. Fastened to the top of the tank was a small placque identifying Kildonan-East Collegiate as the sponsor, in partnership with CPAR.
As I had been on the original trip, I was eager to see what changes had occured. We had to first proceed through the formalities of signing the guestbook in the headmistress's office - they turned back several pages and I was able to see the signatures of all the Tanzania 2010 members from our initial visit. We then moved into the garden area and I tried to pick out the tree I had planted as an eight inch seedling just three years ago. Melissa suggested it was probably the dead one standing at the edge of the field, but I am quite sure it was one of the many flourishing avacadoes that were standing twelve to fifteen feet tall and producing fruit. The entire grove looked very healthy and green, rrigated by runoff water from the tanks. In addition, the school has started a large vegetable garden with support from CPAR, and looks to be quite healthy.
We then toured each class, where we were greeted by the students who were eager to provide us with a list of items in need at the school. Fortunately, we had brought several of the items with us, thanks to the generous donations of Kildonan-East Collegiate staff and students. They were very excited to rceive much needed items like pencils, rulers, and notebooks, but absolutely delerious when we brought out the soccer balls, skipping ropes, and frisbees.
Since we had a smaller number of KEC students and teachers with us that day, we were a little hard pressesd to try and interact with all of the Gilala students. Garrett was quickly involved in a soccer match with the boys while Melissa quickly pumped up the rest of the balls and distributed them. Daria was involved with some very enthusiastic skipping rope games while Bryce tossed frisbees with a large group. Lindsay showed a small group how to work her digital camera while Mr. Shute and myself had a discussion with the second head teacher. We were very pleased to hear that this school did not employ the "stick" -corporal punishment - and yet still ranked very well academically.
Great to see the legacy of Tanzania 2010 continuing to make such a positive impact!
Written by - K. Athayde
As I had been on the original trip, I was eager to see what changes had occured. We had to first proceed through the formalities of signing the guestbook in the headmistress's office - they turned back several pages and I was able to see the signatures of all the Tanzania 2010 members from our initial visit. We then moved into the garden area and I tried to pick out the tree I had planted as an eight inch seedling just three years ago. Melissa suggested it was probably the dead one standing at the edge of the field, but I am quite sure it was one of the many flourishing avacadoes that were standing twelve to fifteen feet tall and producing fruit. The entire grove looked very healthy and green, rrigated by runoff water from the tanks. In addition, the school has started a large vegetable garden with support from CPAR, and looks to be quite healthy.
We then toured each class, where we were greeted by the students who were eager to provide us with a list of items in need at the school. Fortunately, we had brought several of the items with us, thanks to the generous donations of Kildonan-East Collegiate staff and students. They were very excited to rceive much needed items like pencils, rulers, and notebooks, but absolutely delerious when we brought out the soccer balls, skipping ropes, and frisbees.
Since we had a smaller number of KEC students and teachers with us that day, we were a little hard pressesd to try and interact with all of the Gilala students. Garrett was quickly involved in a soccer match with the boys while Melissa quickly pumped up the rest of the balls and distributed them. Daria was involved with some very enthusiastic skipping rope games while Bryce tossed frisbees with a large group. Lindsay showed a small group how to work her digital camera while Mr. Shute and myself had a discussion with the second head teacher. We were very pleased to hear that this school did not employ the "stick" -corporal punishment - and yet still ranked very well academically.
Great to see the legacy of Tanzania 2010 continuing to make such a positive impact!
Written by - K. Athayde
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| A tree Mrs. Athayde helped plant in 2010. Wow, how it has grown. |
Reflecting
Upon returning from our safari on the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, we sat down as a group to discuss some of the things we have seen so far in Africa. In the short time we have been in Tanzania, we have had the opportunity to explore very different sides of this beautiful, but often harsh, country. Here are some of the thoughts expressed.
Kyle: I see what we've done here but it seems to be such a small part of what needs to be done. While at the safari lodges we watched these fancy acts - instead they should educate people about what life is really like in Tanzania.
Daria Sywak: This was a real eye oener. I'll go home with a new perspective. There were days when I'd get up and kind of dread going to school, having to get in the car and drive there. Here I've seen kids who have to walk two hours with no shoes to get to school.
Bryce: I think more of the money from tourism should be going to the communities. Employees at the hotels were surprised that we could speak a few words in Swahili. It showed that most tourists come just for the animals and don't make the effort to try and understand things.
Will: This was an amazing perspective. We take for granted so much. Even at the hostel we have to flick a switch to heat up the water, while at home we just take it for granted. The two sides of Africa we saw (rural life and tourist life) are polar opposites.
Christina: It was interesting to see the schools rather than just going on safari.
Karly: I'm grateful I got to do this trip through CPAR. We saw so much. At home there is so much over-indulgence. It will be hard to see all the food wasted when I am bussing tables in the rstaurant where I work.
Lindsay: I was researching and preparing myself before the trip but I still wasn't fully prepared. Everything is so beautiful and green here. I thought about the safari but I prefer life at the hostel. Life seems so much more connected to nature here.
Garrett: I am happy with what I learned. It has amped up my motivation to make a differnce in the world.
Peter: At the primary school wher we planted the trees, the teacher was so grateful although we did so little. He was still asking for more things. It just shows how much they need. We've got to keep trying to make it better.
Tyler: There is more that needs to be done.
Hailey: It's interesting that a lot of people here don't know their rights. In Canada we do.
Lovejot: The kids definitely motivated me. Given the resources and opportunities they will do so much. We are not driven nearly as much as they are.
Jessica: I have a passion for midwifery. I want to go home, get my degree and come back and help with birthing practices.
Melissa: It was cool to see the culture and environment and realize how lucky we actually are back home. Animals here don't have a home or proper care. People here don't believe we keep animals as pets and give them names and proper food and proper care.
Ms. M: I'm so proud of our students for what they are getting out of this, an experience that will forever be a part of them, a part of us.
Ms. S.: I've been a weeping mess for much of this trip. Part shocked and horrified at the plight of women here. Inspired by how they are the agents of change even though they are constantly stomped on.
Ms. A.: Thanks to CPAR we got to see many different sides of Africa. It was an experience that very few are privileged to see. We met so many interesting people.
Mr. S.: The farming practices are so old. There will be a culture shock when we go back to Canada.
Kyle: I see what we've done here but it seems to be such a small part of what needs to be done. While at the safari lodges we watched these fancy acts - instead they should educate people about what life is really like in Tanzania.
Daria Sywak: This was a real eye oener. I'll go home with a new perspective. There were days when I'd get up and kind of dread going to school, having to get in the car and drive there. Here I've seen kids who have to walk two hours with no shoes to get to school.
Bryce: I think more of the money from tourism should be going to the communities. Employees at the hotels were surprised that we could speak a few words in Swahili. It showed that most tourists come just for the animals and don't make the effort to try and understand things.
Will: This was an amazing perspective. We take for granted so much. Even at the hostel we have to flick a switch to heat up the water, while at home we just take it for granted. The two sides of Africa we saw (rural life and tourist life) are polar opposites.
Christina: It was interesting to see the schools rather than just going on safari.
Karly: I'm grateful I got to do this trip through CPAR. We saw so much. At home there is so much over-indulgence. It will be hard to see all the food wasted when I am bussing tables in the rstaurant where I work.
Lindsay: I was researching and preparing myself before the trip but I still wasn't fully prepared. Everything is so beautiful and green here. I thought about the safari but I prefer life at the hostel. Life seems so much more connected to nature here.
Garrett: I am happy with what I learned. It has amped up my motivation to make a differnce in the world.
Peter: At the primary school wher we planted the trees, the teacher was so grateful although we did so little. He was still asking for more things. It just shows how much they need. We've got to keep trying to make it better.
Tyler: There is more that needs to be done.
Hailey: It's interesting that a lot of people here don't know their rights. In Canada we do.
Lovejot: The kids definitely motivated me. Given the resources and opportunities they will do so much. We are not driven nearly as much as they are.
Jessica: I have a passion for midwifery. I want to go home, get my degree and come back and help with birthing practices.
Melissa: It was cool to see the culture and environment and realize how lucky we actually are back home. Animals here don't have a home or proper care. People here don't believe we keep animals as pets and give them names and proper food and proper care.
Ms. M: I'm so proud of our students for what they are getting out of this, an experience that will forever be a part of them, a part of us.
Ms. S.: I've been a weeping mess for much of this trip. Part shocked and horrified at the plight of women here. Inspired by how they are the agents of change even though they are constantly stomped on.
Ms. A.: Thanks to CPAR we got to see many different sides of Africa. It was an experience that very few are privileged to see. We met so many interesting people.
Mr. S.: The farming practices are so old. There will be a culture shock when we go back to Canada.
Thursday 23 May 2013
Safari
May 19
The party bus drove all day long and did not stop until sunset. We stopped for a while to view Ngorongoro crater from the top. The scenery was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. After driving around the crater, we made our way to the Serengeti. Being a witness to the true nature of the Serengeti had to be something that most people will never endure in their lifetimes. The animals are so unique and different from anything I have ever seen in Canada. We arrived at the lodge around 7:00 pm in the middle of the dessert. The drive was definitely worth it, because it was the nicest hotel I have ever stayed in. There were no fences around the compound and each of the rooms were designed like modern day straw huts. The best part of the rooms were the robes that were in the shower. I think we all felt like kings and queens that night. After dinner, we listened to some performers who started doing hardcore acrobatics. When the act was over, William got ahold of a sweet 12-string guitar and played some music. Later on, the guitar owner came to play us an incredible Kiswahili song. He had a great voice and I found it interesting to hear a different type of music. I saw some sort of scorpion-crab type insect scurrying around the patio, so I decided to pursue it. It was a transparent, red colour and was very quick. One of the hotel employees saw me on this pursuit and squashed the thing with his feet. I asked the man some questions about what it was out of curiosity and he told me it was a spider. Apparently they were very poisonous and cause any affected area to swell up. Umm no thank you.
May 20
In the morning I was awoken by the sounds of song birds amidst the Serengeti lodge. We had to call the security guards to escort us to the main hotel where we actually had bacon with breakfast! Being one of our earlier mornings, we left in the jeeps by about 7:00 a.m. The top of the jeeps were already down and the chilling wind called for a light jacket. The first animals we sighted for the day were some grand gazelles. That was just the beginning to a day with almost too many animals. Our group ran into a herd of giraffes, a quarrel of hippos, a plethora of elephants, a pinch of zebras, and about 14 billion wildebeests. We even saw a hyena for a second on our way out of the desert. The lions are seen every once in a while, but they just chill out on top of trees or in the grass. They appear to be comfortable with humans staring at them. After lunch, the remainder of our day was spent driving through the Serengeti finding animals in the sweltering heat. I learned that hippopotamus's smell like sewage and they enjoy sleeping in the water together as groups to cool down in the African heat. I also observed many zebras that have integrated with the wildebeests. We were fortunate enough to witness the great migration of the two animals!
May 21
For our last safari day, we drove into the crater for a few hours to find some more animals. Most of the animals were the same, but we finally saw a male lion. I can see where the name "King of the Jungle" comes from. The lion was just grazing in the grass next to his most recent kill. It appeared to be a water buffalo with hundreds of flies all over its exposed rib cage. The smell was vulgar and rank. Mid-way through the day, we pulled up next to a jeep and had a lovely conversation with one of the ladies in it. It turned out that she was an Olympic athlete sponsored by Oakley. Her name was Georgia Simmerling from Vancouver, BC, so it was awesome to meet a famous Canadian skier! By lunch time, the trio climbed their highest tree yet over a pond of hungry hungry hippos. I just wish that the next tree we climb is not infested with rabid spiders. To end another beautiful day, our jeep randomly fell upon a sleeping female lion just 5 feet from the road. She was definitely a peaceful animal. I was glad to end the day with such a majestic sight of a mis-understood creature. By mis-understood I mean that they sleep way more than I expected.
Written by - Peter Johnson
Written by - Peter Johnson
Monday 20 May 2013
Wild Kingdom!
After a sumptuous buffet breakfast, we piled into the jeeps and set off to find some animals. Saw lots of impalas right away, but very little else for quite a while. Driving around the dusty roads stretched the patience of a few, but all was forgiven as we began seeing animal after animal. Stopped by a hippo pool (they stink) and also saw a cleverly disguised crocodile sunning itself. It's no wonder that unsuspecting prey is easily fooled - they are expert hiders.
Other perfect scenes include the giraffes striding gracefully across the plain to munch on the acacia trees; elephants meandering through the bush; herds of impala and gazelles in meadows or on plains; the sleepy lions that were completely uninterested and uncaring of the spectators in jeeps.
Then we hit the jackpot. We came across a wildebeast migration. Wildebeast as far as the eye could see all moving puposefully in one general direction. Mixed in were zebra, elephants, gazelles, and even birds soaring overhead. It was reminiscent of the scene from the beginning ofThe Lion King where all of the animals join togetsher to welcome the new cub. It was difficult to know which direction to watch - cameras were clicking madly, trying to capture this amazing scene.
We then headed back to Ngorongoro, seeing colourful Masai along the road either herding cattle or goats, or just striding along, miles away from anything. Strangely, you will often see one in the traditional shuka and sandals talking on his cell phone.
The Serena Ngorongoro was a welcome reward after the tiring and dusty day. Warm showers before supper did much to rejuvenate us. After dinner, we sat in the lounge to access the free internet and watch the live entertainment - a group of African singers dressed in voodoo masks dancing on stilts while singing La Bamba.
Written by - K. Athayde
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Other perfect scenes include the giraffes striding gracefully across the plain to munch on the acacia trees; elephants meandering through the bush; herds of impala and gazelles in meadows or on plains; the sleepy lions that were completely uninterested and uncaring of the spectators in jeeps.
Then we hit the jackpot. We came across a wildebeast migration. Wildebeast as far as the eye could see all moving puposefully in one general direction. Mixed in were zebra, elephants, gazelles, and even birds soaring overhead. It was reminiscent of the scene from the beginning ofThe Lion King where all of the animals join togetsher to welcome the new cub. It was difficult to know which direction to watch - cameras were clicking madly, trying to capture this amazing scene.
We then headed back to Ngorongoro, seeing colourful Masai along the road either herding cattle or goats, or just striding along, miles away from anything. Strangely, you will often see one in the traditional shuka and sandals talking on his cell phone.
The Serena Ngorongoro was a welcome reward after the tiring and dusty day. Warm showers before supper did much to rejuvenate us. After dinner, we sat in the lounge to access the free internet and watch the live entertainment - a group of African singers dressed in voodoo masks dancing on stilts while singing La Bamba.
Written by - K. Athayde
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Lions and Tigers and Bears, oh my!
Well, not exactly. But we are on safari on the Serengeti. Today we saw baboons, elephants, gazelles, giraffes, hippos, lions, ostriches, wildebeasts, and zebras and zebras and zebras. So cool! There were times where we didn't know where to look first, there was so much going on. The scenery was equally amazing, changing from rolling green mountain valleys to rainforest jungles to lush green steppes filled with acacia trees to dry flat serengeti plains. Bouncing along in the safari jeeps was also a new experience once the drivers popped the tops up so we could stand and look out for the next animal sighting. We arrived after dusk at the Serengeti Serena Lodge, covered in road dust, hungry, tired, and very satisfied. We were welcomed with warm damp cloths to wipe our hands and a glass of juice. We were assigned our rooms in separate little cottages, and warned that we must be escorted as the lodge is not fenced and there can be wild animals nearby. The rooms are luxurious, the beds comfortable, and the showers inviting. We hustled off to the buffet dinner, which consisted of so many different items it was impossible to try everything. Following dinner, there was a live show in the bar, consisting of drumming, dancing, and acrobatics.
This has definitely been a very different and marvelous side of Africa that we have met today. Now we have to try to get up for a very early start to get on with day 2 of our safari.
Written by -K. Athayde
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This has definitely been a very different and marvelous side of Africa that we have met today. Now we have to try to get up for a very early start to get on with day 2 of our safari.
Written by -K. Athayde
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Sunday 19 May 2013
Elephant Hike!
We were up early this Saturday am for what we thought would be a quiet hike through the rain forest.
Nope.
Turns out that wild elephants wanted to crash our hiking party. We smelt poop. We heard rustling in the trees. We saw a flash of grey. The look on Mao, our guides face indicated that, Houston, we have a problem. We all had to freeze, stop talking, stop taking photos - recommended behaviour when elephants are lurking in the bushes. A word about elephants - while they seem friendly (aka Dumbo), in these parts human trampings do happen.
After fifteen minutes of quietly, slowly creeping, the threat passed. Mr. Shute thinks, however, Mao was tired of listening to the mzungu (us) chattering for hours that he made the whole elephant debacle up.
Mao took us to a waterfall, where he came periously close to falling 150 meters below all in an effort to get Jessica the perfect waterfall photo.
A word about Mao -he's about 75, wore a mismatched business suit on the hike, is a natural medicine doctor who can cure anything from an ulcer to asthma with a plant. In fact when Mrs. M was bit he raced off into the bushes and came out with leaves that took away the swelling and pain.
At the end of the hike across the ravine we were treated to an elephant standing, majestically waiting for us. He was far enough away that Mayo coud breathe easy, have a cigarette and we could all snap a bunch of photos.
We rounded out the day by heading to Kudu Lodge to swim and indulge in a pretty decadent dinner. It didn't, however, go unnoticed by the students how privileged we are to escape to the lodge for a few hours when just down the street peoole struggle for basic necessities such as food and water. Will even mentoned that he preferred the hostel to the fancy smnancy lodge.
Another great day for Team Tanzania 2013!
Written by - D. Salamon
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Nope.
Turns out that wild elephants wanted to crash our hiking party. We smelt poop. We heard rustling in the trees. We saw a flash of grey. The look on Mao, our guides face indicated that, Houston, we have a problem. We all had to freeze, stop talking, stop taking photos - recommended behaviour when elephants are lurking in the bushes. A word about elephants - while they seem friendly (aka Dumbo), in these parts human trampings do happen.
After fifteen minutes of quietly, slowly creeping, the threat passed. Mr. Shute thinks, however, Mao was tired of listening to the mzungu (us) chattering for hours that he made the whole elephant debacle up.
Mao took us to a waterfall, where he came periously close to falling 150 meters below all in an effort to get Jessica the perfect waterfall photo.
A word about Mao -he's about 75, wore a mismatched business suit on the hike, is a natural medicine doctor who can cure anything from an ulcer to asthma with a plant. In fact when Mrs. M was bit he raced off into the bushes and came out with leaves that took away the swelling and pain.
At the end of the hike across the ravine we were treated to an elephant standing, majestically waiting for us. He was far enough away that Mayo coud breathe easy, have a cigarette and we could all snap a bunch of photos.
We rounded out the day by heading to Kudu Lodge to swim and indulge in a pretty decadent dinner. It didn't, however, go unnoticed by the students how privileged we are to escape to the lodge for a few hours when just down the street peoole struggle for basic necessities such as food and water. Will even mentoned that he preferred the hostel to the fancy smnancy lodge.
Another great day for Team Tanzania 2013!
Written by - D. Salamon
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School Visit, Shopping, and Happy Days
The day began with a great start -some of the problem sleepers had a good night's sleep, so Mrs. P's drug pushing seems to be having a positive effect (herbal sleep aids). Eveyone has learned that if they are tardy to breakfast, all the crepes will be gone, so between that and the extra firm foam mattresses, there has been lots of incentive to get moving early.
Our walk up to CPAR turned into Close Encounters with Cows as we encountered a small herd being driven up the road. At the office we had a debriefing from yesteday's experiences at the farms and secondary school. We discussed some of the difficulties faced by Tanzanian students that are not encountered as often in Canada. Corporal punishment, sexual violence, gender discrimination, and language difficulties are all very prominent here.
While the students filled water bottles to be used for irrigating fruit trees, I managed to upload another blog entry. Internet connectivity has been a huge challenge here and many are frustrated tying to connect with loved ones back home.
We had a scenic drive to Rotia primary school where we were greeted by song and dance and very excited children. When it came time to introduce ourselves, Will impressed both the Canadians and Tanzanians by greeting them in a few Swahili phrases.
After proper instruction in fruit tree planting and drip irrigation, we teamed up with some primary students and planted guavas, avacados, and papaya trees. With the dirty work done (or close - we left the last few seedlings for Ms. S and Ms. M), we were able to turn to our favourite activity -playtime! We hauled out the bag of sports equipment and started tossing out frisbees, skipping ropes, balls and a play parachute.
One lttle girl, Marya, had attached herself to me and was following me everywhere. As the bag was being emptied, she was trying to peer into the bag but would not let go of my hand to get close enough. She suddenly stilled, and then got very excited. I wondered what had caught her interest in this big bag of goodies when she turned to me and with awe on her face, simply said "shoes!" She had seen into the bottom of the bag here we had packed a few pairs of used soccer cleats. It was a very sharp reminder of how little these children have - all of the wondeful new toys emerging and she would be the most excited by something as basic as a new pair of shoes.
The children had a marvelous time playing and were equally amazed to see their teachers playing with the new equipment as well. Girls played together very well, but whenever a boy would enter a game, they would immediately defer and throw the ball to him.
At 2:00, the Rotia teachers decided it was time for a long overdue lunch and rang the dinner bell to summon the children for their lunch of maize and beans. We said goodbye and set off for a picnic lunch.
Shopping at a large craft store followed. Everybody managed to drop quite a few Tanzanian shillings or US dollars on souvenirs and gifts. Huge haggling ended the shopping spree with some convinced they got a good deal and others convinced they paid too much, but everyone seems to be happy with their purchases.
We ended the day with another excellent meal at Happy Days, a local restaurant that serves burgers and pizza. Everyone enjoyed their meals except for those that had the chicken knuckle pizza.
Written by - K. Athayde
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Our walk up to CPAR turned into Close Encounters with Cows as we encountered a small herd being driven up the road. At the office we had a debriefing from yesteday's experiences at the farms and secondary school. We discussed some of the difficulties faced by Tanzanian students that are not encountered as often in Canada. Corporal punishment, sexual violence, gender discrimination, and language difficulties are all very prominent here.
While the students filled water bottles to be used for irrigating fruit trees, I managed to upload another blog entry. Internet connectivity has been a huge challenge here and many are frustrated tying to connect with loved ones back home.
We had a scenic drive to Rotia primary school where we were greeted by song and dance and very excited children. When it came time to introduce ourselves, Will impressed both the Canadians and Tanzanians by greeting them in a few Swahili phrases.
After proper instruction in fruit tree planting and drip irrigation, we teamed up with some primary students and planted guavas, avacados, and papaya trees. With the dirty work done (or close - we left the last few seedlings for Ms. S and Ms. M), we were able to turn to our favourite activity -playtime! We hauled out the bag of sports equipment and started tossing out frisbees, skipping ropes, balls and a play parachute.
One lttle girl, Marya, had attached herself to me and was following me everywhere. As the bag was being emptied, she was trying to peer into the bag but would not let go of my hand to get close enough. She suddenly stilled, and then got very excited. I wondered what had caught her interest in this big bag of goodies when she turned to me and with awe on her face, simply said "shoes!" She had seen into the bottom of the bag here we had packed a few pairs of used soccer cleats. It was a very sharp reminder of how little these children have - all of the wondeful new toys emerging and she would be the most excited by something as basic as a new pair of shoes.
The children had a marvelous time playing and were equally amazed to see their teachers playing with the new equipment as well. Girls played together very well, but whenever a boy would enter a game, they would immediately defer and throw the ball to him.
At 2:00, the Rotia teachers decided it was time for a long overdue lunch and rang the dinner bell to summon the children for their lunch of maize and beans. We said goodbye and set off for a picnic lunch.
Shopping at a large craft store followed. Everybody managed to drop quite a few Tanzanian shillings or US dollars on souvenirs and gifts. Huge haggling ended the shopping spree with some convinced they got a good deal and others convinced they paid too much, but everyone seems to be happy with their purchases.
We ended the day with another excellent meal at Happy Days, a local restaurant that serves burgers and pizza. Everyone enjoyed their meals except for those that had the chicken knuckle pizza.
Written by - K. Athayde
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Health Care, Tanzania Style
Today we visited Wayda Dispensary and FAME hospital to learn about some different health care options and challenges. The dispensary acts as the front line of Tanzania health care. The doctor sees everything and tries to handle every kind of medical situation, including emergencies. The doctor is pretty much on his own, and does not have the luxury of referring patients to specialists. There are no ambulances, and very few cars in rural areas. The dispensary was well organized, but very poorly stocked. The place felt like something that might have existed in North America about 70 years ago. The microscope in the lab could have been in any junior high science classroom and was set up in front of a window with broken glass in one pane.
The FAME hospital is an American run hospital that is very new. Parts of it are still being built. Here the microscope looked state of the art and was connected to a computer in a fresh new lab. This hospital operates on a tiered payment system- lowest prices are for Tanzanians, mid-range prices for ex-pats and long term volunteers, and highest prices are for tourists. Tanzania has one doctor for every 30,000 people.
Later in the day we ventured into town for our first shopping experience. Separating into groups seemed to make more sense than trying to keep a large crowd of 25 people together, and we were also attracting a lot of attention. With one of the CPAR Tanzanians in each group, we set off to learn how to bargain and find our way through the market. Delphina, Mona, and Schola proved to be a valuable resource as they guided us around and help negotiate prices.
Back at the hostel, Ms. Salamon managed to convince a few people they should join her in a cross-fit workout on the lawn, while the rest of us sat and cheered them on from our deck chairs. After dinner at Happy Days, a nearby restaurant, the teachers headed to the CPAR office to try and Skype in for a staff meeting (it was 11:00pm Tanzania time, which shows how dedicated we were), while Delphina stayed to teach the students some Tanzanian dance moves. Pretty sure the students got the better bargain that night.
Written by - K. Athayde
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The FAME hospital is an American run hospital that is very new. Parts of it are still being built. Here the microscope looked state of the art and was connected to a computer in a fresh new lab. This hospital operates on a tiered payment system- lowest prices are for Tanzanians, mid-range prices for ex-pats and long term volunteers, and highest prices are for tourists. Tanzania has one doctor for every 30,000 people.
Later in the day we ventured into town for our first shopping experience. Separating into groups seemed to make more sense than trying to keep a large crowd of 25 people together, and we were also attracting a lot of attention. With one of the CPAR Tanzanians in each group, we set off to learn how to bargain and find our way through the market. Delphina, Mona, and Schola proved to be a valuable resource as they guided us around and help negotiate prices.
Back at the hostel, Ms. Salamon managed to convince a few people they should join her in a cross-fit workout on the lawn, while the rest of us sat and cheered them on from our deck chairs. After dinner at Happy Days, a nearby restaurant, the teachers headed to the CPAR office to try and Skype in for a staff meeting (it was 11:00pm Tanzania time, which shows how dedicated we were), while Delphina stayed to teach the students some Tanzanian dance moves. Pretty sure the students got the better bargain that night.
Written by - K. Athayde
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Friday 17 May 2013
Farm Day
Jambo from Tanzania,
We spent most of the day getting down and dirty on farms today.
We kicked off the day with a wild jeep ride that tested Mrs. Posthumus' stamina...she was looking a little green when she stepped out of the jeep. We arrived at Agrafina Sikay's farm and were introduced to her goats; Agrafina is part of CPAR's Farmer Field School. CPAR targets women who are unattached to men and provides them with goats or pigs. The women then breed the goats and pigs, pass one goat onto another independant woman and then are free use the meat and milk to provide for their families and community, as well as sell the surplus at the market. This is a fabulous program that makes communities and families stronger. CPAR has really plugged into the idea of partnering with farmers, and they really working hard at empowering women as they are truly the change agents in Tanzania.
We also visited Globocazi Vegetable Field School where farmers come together three times a week to experiment with growing new crops, discuss social issues such as gender equality, HIV, family planning and how to improve overall quality of life. As a bunch of people who pick up their bacon and milk at Costco, it was a really powerful day of learning about food security for us.
At the end of the day we visited and toured a secondary school where we had an opportunity to meet the students and teachers and even play a little soccer and frisbee. It was a great conclusion to a loooong day; we left a 9 am and returned to the hostel at 6:30 pm- only breaking for a midday picnic lunch in a field!
And Some Additional Field Notes...
An exciting update on Lindsay's luggage - it finally showed up yesterday! She was one happy girl!
Almost a week into our trip I'd also like to report that that this a smashingly, fantastic group of kids that we've shlepped half way around the globe. They have really bonded; they are kind and generous and often really funny. If I were the parent of one of these gems and was reading this blog...I'd feel incredibly proud. (I am always open to parenting tips.)
Written by - D. Salamon
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We spent most of the day getting down and dirty on farms today.
We kicked off the day with a wild jeep ride that tested Mrs. Posthumus' stamina...she was looking a little green when she stepped out of the jeep. We arrived at Agrafina Sikay's farm and were introduced to her goats; Agrafina is part of CPAR's Farmer Field School. CPAR targets women who are unattached to men and provides them with goats or pigs. The women then breed the goats and pigs, pass one goat onto another independant woman and then are free use the meat and milk to provide for their families and community, as well as sell the surplus at the market. This is a fabulous program that makes communities and families stronger. CPAR has really plugged into the idea of partnering with farmers, and they really working hard at empowering women as they are truly the change agents in Tanzania.
We also visited Globocazi Vegetable Field School where farmers come together three times a week to experiment with growing new crops, discuss social issues such as gender equality, HIV, family planning and how to improve overall quality of life. As a bunch of people who pick up their bacon and milk at Costco, it was a really powerful day of learning about food security for us.
At the end of the day we visited and toured a secondary school where we had an opportunity to meet the students and teachers and even play a little soccer and frisbee. It was a great conclusion to a loooong day; we left a 9 am and returned to the hostel at 6:30 pm- only breaking for a midday picnic lunch in a field!
And Some Additional Field Notes...
An exciting update on Lindsay's luggage - it finally showed up yesterday! She was one happy girl!
Almost a week into our trip I'd also like to report that that this a smashingly, fantastic group of kids that we've shlepped half way around the globe. They have really bonded; they are kind and generous and often really funny. If I were the parent of one of these gems and was reading this blog...I'd feel incredibly proud. (I am always open to parenting tips.)
Written by - D. Salamon
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