Just a short one - as aware I haven't blogged recently....
The reason being that I've been laid up ill with a bad stomach etc - shouldn't have jested about that popcorn! anyway gettin better now hurrah - and preparing to come home - just a few things to write up - looking forward to Heathrow on Saturday!
R
Wednesday, 15 December 2010
Monday, 13 December 2010
Civilisation!
I have left Mkushi and travelled to Lusaka with Donata who wanted to say goodbye to me in Lasaka - we caught a taxi as the rain was such that it seemed the best mode of transport - the busses do not run to a timetable and you just have to stand open to the elements on the Great North Road - you have to wait up to 90 minutes for a bus on average and we would have been drenched and out stuff ruined - my clothes allready all stink mind you from being washed in the same water as that bath.
Anyway I have to confess that for my first night in Lusaka I did book myslef into some luxury - I decided that I no longer wanted to remove the frog from the shower each night - or face a menu limited to one option - I paid the difference on my accomdation allowance and checked into Lusaka's best. Donata came with me for tea and it was like that scene from Crocodile Dundee - she had nevedr seen a lift, electronic sliding doors - or what impressed her most was the credit card door entry system for the rooms. I think many of you know that I can be a bit of a 4 and 5 star boy - and I think Donata began to realise why I didn't gush over the Harvest Inn
Anyway the Lusaka contingent of Donata's family all came to greet me and Donata and I had our final resume meeting before saying goodbye.
I now am meeting some of the other guys from the team to ensure appropriate follow up - comiling my legacy report and having some reflection as I prepare to come home
Richard
Anyway I have to confess that for my first night in Lusaka I did book myslef into some luxury - I decided that I no longer wanted to remove the frog from the shower each night - or face a menu limited to one option - I paid the difference on my accomdation allowance and checked into Lusaka's best. Donata came with me for tea and it was like that scene from Crocodile Dundee - she had nevedr seen a lift, electronic sliding doors - or what impressed her most was the credit card door entry system for the rooms. I think many of you know that I can be a bit of a 4 and 5 star boy - and I think Donata began to realise why I didn't gush over the Harvest Inn
Anyway the Lusaka contingent of Donata's family all came to greet me and Donata and I had our final resume meeting before saying goodbye.
I now am meeting some of the other guys from the team to ensure appropriate follow up - comiling my legacy report and having some reflection as I prepare to come home
Richard
Friday, 10 December 2010
The Adhoc Committee
Just a quick one today - it's been a bit mad saying goodbyes....and am shattered.
Did just that really today said farewells - everyone seems to know I'm off from Mutinda in the Butcher's, to Peter the Journalist with his pink umbrella and the banana lady.
Have to say much as I have moaned about some bit's its been great and the people have been so lovely and honest - special mention must go to the chambermaid who was honest enough to return the 300 dollars I left in my shorts sent for washing - that's about 5 months of her wages - I did giver hera good tip before some of you start.
Anyway have had a spring in my step - realise I did have a bit of Cabin Fever from being stuck here - and after waiting 2 hors last night for the kitchen to do egg and chips I am glad to do my last meal at the Harvest inn. Even more glad on the last meal as Peter the Journo informs me the Zambian Environmental Health have given them a week to clean the kitchen or be shut down......that news takes some digestion!
Anyway in zambia we have a 50 Kwacha note - its worth about half a pence - and it is the bain of your life when you buy something and they give you a handful of them - it buys nothing apart from 10 litres of water from the bore hole - anyway there is a sourfaced bar woman at the Harvest Inn called Sharon - shes just had hair extensions so she looks like Dionne Warwick - every day whenever I buy abything she huffs and puffs - Zambians never have chenge its always a saga. So taday, just for my own amusement I bought a bottle of beer (6000 Kwacha) solely with 50 Kwacha notes that I have been keeping - 120 bank notes for one beer - her face was priceless.
Donata had a letter today (that's big news in itself - and causes excitement as it gives a new envelope to reuse) - however the contents just sum this all up. The council want to view the new school site to process the license - they have formed the wonderfully named 'ad hoc' committee to do this - the bad nes is they want 300 quid to pay for the visit, guess they need some cash
Heading to civilisation shortly to start wrapping things up!
Did just that really today said farewells - everyone seems to know I'm off from Mutinda in the Butcher's, to Peter the Journalist with his pink umbrella and the banana lady.
Have to say much as I have moaned about some bit's its been great and the people have been so lovely and honest - special mention must go to the chambermaid who was honest enough to return the 300 dollars I left in my shorts sent for washing - that's about 5 months of her wages - I did giver hera good tip before some of you start.
Anyway have had a spring in my step - realise I did have a bit of Cabin Fever from being stuck here - and after waiting 2 hors last night for the kitchen to do egg and chips I am glad to do my last meal at the Harvest inn. Even more glad on the last meal as Peter the Journo informs me the Zambian Environmental Health have given them a week to clean the kitchen or be shut down......that news takes some digestion!
Anyway in zambia we have a 50 Kwacha note - its worth about half a pence - and it is the bain of your life when you buy something and they give you a handful of them - it buys nothing apart from 10 litres of water from the bore hole - anyway there is a sourfaced bar woman at the Harvest Inn called Sharon - shes just had hair extensions so she looks like Dionne Warwick - every day whenever I buy abything she huffs and puffs - Zambians never have chenge its always a saga. So taday, just for my own amusement I bought a bottle of beer (6000 Kwacha) solely with 50 Kwacha notes that I have been keeping - 120 bank notes for one beer - her face was priceless.
Donata had a letter today (that's big news in itself - and causes excitement as it gives a new envelope to reuse) - however the contents just sum this all up. The council want to view the new school site to process the license - they have formed the wonderfully named 'ad hoc' committee to do this - the bad nes is they want 300 quid to pay for the visit, guess they need some cash
Heading to civilisation shortly to start wrapping things up!
Thursday, 9 December 2010
Goodbyes...
It's been a manic day - but before I go into that I would like to thank two of you in particular -
Craig for describing in detail on the phone all the ingredients that was going into his Chicken Pie - I didn't know you had a sadistic streak
and Tara for phoning to tell me how bad my typing is - in my defence - the computer has several keys missing and others stuck - the chair has three legs and I am often distracted by a lizard or some nights a plague of dragon fly things that drop dead at dusk
Anyway today -
We started with meeting His Royal highness Chief Chitina - well that was a palava - I was collected by his security guard - and we were told we had to be quick as he had to go to the clinic for his stomach ulcers. Anyway I was told to take a gift so grabbed the last of my supply of love spoons - and we sat. The guard looked at the gift and said yes this is nice but the Chief also likes paper. I asked Donata how much I should give - and she shrugged - the guard helpfully said the more cash I gave the bw\etter the quality of the audience. I gave a fiver.
The Chief arrived complete with a Giraffe Tail to flick away the flies and my fiver got me a ten minute chat about the school.
Then off to the local education minister for a grilling about the business plan - after feeling inadequate he then said it was good - asked to copy the appraisal system in governemnt schools and asked if I could come back and work at a District level - I just smiled. He also agreed some support for the school - al last we will ahve science equipment and craft equipment.
The off to the School for the Mzungu leaving party - I had Chocolate and crisps for the Children - at the sight of the chocolate they fell silent - some were frioghtened to eat it - none had had it before - then they murdered the crisps - a tube of Pringles from my bag just went up in dust. Te kids kept all the packaging to take home and show their families.
We then danced to Zambian Music - and then I played them tunes from my IPOD - they were stunned into submission - and just stood mesmerised especially when it played videos - they loved Go West by the Pet Shop Boys - though I'm not sure in this country I should be introducing them to my camp classics.
I told them about all of our fundraising efforts - there were teats and I filmed a message from them all I will post it on a stronger connection.
Then off to brief Mrs Hunt the schools patron on the work I ahve done and to actually giver her the donated cash to look after. We are buying some text books and funding about 70% of the bore hole
She seemed pleased with the work -
I now just have to finalise some things here - there off to Lusaka to complete some work around sustainanability and to make sure al the actions are bottomed out
Walking back from school today I knew that my work was settling in - Donata and I were talking about how bad the food is in the Harvest Inn - even she thinks so - she said Mr Charlie (the owner) needed to performance manage his staff and give them appraisals! Result....
Craig for describing in detail on the phone all the ingredients that was going into his Chicken Pie - I didn't know you had a sadistic streak
and Tara for phoning to tell me how bad my typing is - in my defence - the computer has several keys missing and others stuck - the chair has three legs and I am often distracted by a lizard or some nights a plague of dragon fly things that drop dead at dusk
Anyway today -
We started with meeting His Royal highness Chief Chitina - well that was a palava - I was collected by his security guard - and we were told we had to be quick as he had to go to the clinic for his stomach ulcers. Anyway I was told to take a gift so grabbed the last of my supply of love spoons - and we sat. The guard looked at the gift and said yes this is nice but the Chief also likes paper. I asked Donata how much I should give - and she shrugged - the guard helpfully said the more cash I gave the bw\etter the quality of the audience. I gave a fiver.
The Chief arrived complete with a Giraffe Tail to flick away the flies and my fiver got me a ten minute chat about the school.
Then off to the local education minister for a grilling about the business plan - after feeling inadequate he then said it was good - asked to copy the appraisal system in governemnt schools and asked if I could come back and work at a District level - I just smiled. He also agreed some support for the school - al last we will ahve science equipment and craft equipment.
The off to the School for the Mzungu leaving party - I had Chocolate and crisps for the Children - at the sight of the chocolate they fell silent - some were frioghtened to eat it - none had had it before - then they murdered the crisps - a tube of Pringles from my bag just went up in dust. Te kids kept all the packaging to take home and show their families.
We then danced to Zambian Music - and then I played them tunes from my IPOD - they were stunned into submission - and just stood mesmerised especially when it played videos - they loved Go West by the Pet Shop Boys - though I'm not sure in this country I should be introducing them to my camp classics.
I told them about all of our fundraising efforts - there were teats and I filmed a message from them all I will post it on a stronger connection.
Then off to brief Mrs Hunt the schools patron on the work I ahve done and to actually giver her the donated cash to look after. We are buying some text books and funding about 70% of the bore hole
She seemed pleased with the work -
I now just have to finalise some things here - there off to Lusaka to complete some work around sustainanability and to make sure al the actions are bottomed out
Walking back from school today I knew that my work was settling in - Donata and I were talking about how bad the food is in the Harvest Inn - even she thinks so - she said Mr Charlie (the owner) needed to performance manage his staff and give them appraisals! Result....
Wednesday, 8 December 2010
Dinner at Carmen Miranda's
I went to bed last night a happy man - not just cause the MP - or her staff - managed to cook a mighty fine Hungarian Sausage and chips (even it it did take 2 hours) - but because she phoned the President and it does look like we have te cash for the classrooms - so maybe I have achieved something!
I told in the taxi on the way home who whooped with joy and went to church to pray for the night. The funniest thing was the MP giving me a bill for 20 quid for dinner.
Today we have touted ourselves round the councillors who ahve a say on the funding application I put in - I don't know how many business plans I have received for Councillors Business ideas with me promising to pass onto any UK investors I know - anyone interested in the Mkushi Conference Centre ha ha. Anyway all the signs are good that we have support for our plans.
We then went to the site of the new school -its beautiful up there on the hill looking over the mountains and then walked back through the township buying some stuff for the kids end of term party tomorrow - I also have Pringles and Chocolate in the hut as a surprise - they have never had crisps or chocolate - DON"T blame me for introducing it to them it would have happened some time!
I also bought Popcorn in the market - I asked for 10000 KWA worth (about one pounds worth) - I have enough Popcorn to keep Odeon in business and had to pay a boy with a wheelbarrow to help me take it home
We then met with more councillors -and tonight we have to meet with the Chief - I am a bit disapointed that he is town at the Mkushi Motel - think developing world Cross roads - then worse - but it means that we do not have to go to the Palace. I have to take a gift - I have one lovespoon left.
I think it is getting out that the Mzungu will shortly leave town - I am being beseiged by all and sundry from 'buy african viagra to help the women's co-perative'. The women are quite scary actually ad now seem to be stalking me -= they are outside the internet cafe in the rain waving at me as I type
Anyway my audience with the Chief awaits
Till tomorrow....
R
I told in the taxi on the way home who whooped with joy and went to church to pray for the night. The funniest thing was the MP giving me a bill for 20 quid for dinner.
Today we have touted ourselves round the councillors who ahve a say on the funding application I put in - I don't know how many business plans I have received for Councillors Business ideas with me promising to pass onto any UK investors I know - anyone interested in the Mkushi Conference Centre ha ha. Anyway all the signs are good that we have support for our plans.
We then went to the site of the new school -its beautiful up there on the hill looking over the mountains and then walked back through the township buying some stuff for the kids end of term party tomorrow - I also have Pringles and Chocolate in the hut as a surprise - they have never had crisps or chocolate - DON"T blame me for introducing it to them it would have happened some time!
I also bought Popcorn in the market - I asked for 10000 KWA worth (about one pounds worth) - I have enough Popcorn to keep Odeon in business and had to pay a boy with a wheelbarrow to help me take it home
We then met with more councillors -and tonight we have to meet with the Chief - I am a bit disapointed that he is town at the Mkushi Motel - think developing world Cross roads - then worse - but it means that we do not have to go to the Palace. I have to take a gift - I have one lovespoon left.
I think it is getting out that the Mzungu will shortly leave town - I am being beseiged by all and sundry from 'buy african viagra to help the women's co-perative'. The women are quite scary actually ad now seem to be stalking me -= they are outside the internet cafe in the rain waving at me as I type
Anyway my audience with the Chief awaits
Till tomorrow....
R
Tuesday, 7 December 2010
Glastonbury'esque
I have a new hut at the Harvest Inn - this is the newly finished deluxe room - it does have an air con unit but that is just for show -there is also a TV which gets no signal but switches itself on when the fridge boots up. There is also a bath which means for the first time I have properly seen the colour of the water.
I have lived for the last 2 days on peanuts and bananas, they cooked me dinner last night but as I was sat under a light and saw it I couldn't quite face it - also I have eaten the Harvest Inn out of Chilli Sauce and Ketchup which I have been using to hide the taste.
Anyway I woke up today and got to the internet cafe to do some printing - they had lost the key - and after 40 minutes we got in - the man at the nextdoor fishstall let me shelter from the rain. Then they had no paper so that took another hour and then the photocopying shop was closed for an hour to go to a funeral - so what would eb a 10 minute task at work took 3 hours.
Anyhow staff appraisals followed - Donata got into the spirit and was harsh but fair - this is a big step as it is not in their culture to criticise - the staff took onto target setting really well - I was pleased - and in actual fact suggested far bigger quality improvement targets than would have. We also identified some key training and learning needs and once again I was struck by the lack of resources - some subjects have no textbooks or teacher guides - yet a teacher guide costs just a fiver.
Throughout the day it has been steadily raining so by mid afternoon I was well out of place in shorts and flip flops - I now look like I should be at the Glastonbury Festival as all the paths and roads have turned to mud! It is amazing the effect the rain has - things are turning green so quickly, snakes and lizards are reappearing - and the water is so needed - at the weekend we saw Buffalo that had literally got them selves stuck in the mud close to the last remaining drops of water and died stuck there - creating a buffet for the vultures.
No rest for the wicked so we went through the mud in my Glastonbury type attire to meet the other MP - remember the last one was building a posh lodge - well this one has a large hardware store and the only shop in town that sells chocolate. He broke off his timber selling to grant me an audience - and agreed that the school should get some money - they are recalling some money from the Tanzanians who build a dodgy Maize Mill and he phoned the Minister in Lusaka to see if we can get 19 million of that - that's half the money that we need for the new build!
I talked with Donata today abour fundraiisng from the White Farmers in the area - we have developed a letter and pack to go to them - but Donata always visits them personally. She has no transport and does this onj foot - it takes 10 days to get round the farms - she goes with a friend and they carry their own food - begging accomodation as sun falls with local villages / farm workers. All my fundraising mates who say fundraising is hard take note!
Finally huge thanks to all who have raised / offered money - we are trying to give the school a total by Thursday - so please its not too late - look at last Saturday's blog for details of how to help or text me on 07977 668 632
Anyway I now have to brave a cold bath in yellow water to scrub myslef up for dinner with the other MP - The Carmen Mirand'esque one. Donata has been coming / not coming all day as it clashes with church. She is now coming as she is hungry - I am fearing that it will be traditional Zambian....I have also had to give Donata a lesson on political astuteness - she sad she wanted to speak to the MP about not standing agaonst Donata's mate in some council election - I said Ididn't feel that would help our cause for cash
Till tomorrow - unless we flood!
R
I have lived for the last 2 days on peanuts and bananas, they cooked me dinner last night but as I was sat under a light and saw it I couldn't quite face it - also I have eaten the Harvest Inn out of Chilli Sauce and Ketchup which I have been using to hide the taste.
Anyway I woke up today and got to the internet cafe to do some printing - they had lost the key - and after 40 minutes we got in - the man at the nextdoor fishstall let me shelter from the rain. Then they had no paper so that took another hour and then the photocopying shop was closed for an hour to go to a funeral - so what would eb a 10 minute task at work took 3 hours.
Anyhow staff appraisals followed - Donata got into the spirit and was harsh but fair - this is a big step as it is not in their culture to criticise - the staff took onto target setting really well - I was pleased - and in actual fact suggested far bigger quality improvement targets than would have. We also identified some key training and learning needs and once again I was struck by the lack of resources - some subjects have no textbooks or teacher guides - yet a teacher guide costs just a fiver.
Throughout the day it has been steadily raining so by mid afternoon I was well out of place in shorts and flip flops - I now look like I should be at the Glastonbury Festival as all the paths and roads have turned to mud! It is amazing the effect the rain has - things are turning green so quickly, snakes and lizards are reappearing - and the water is so needed - at the weekend we saw Buffalo that had literally got them selves stuck in the mud close to the last remaining drops of water and died stuck there - creating a buffet for the vultures.
No rest for the wicked so we went through the mud in my Glastonbury type attire to meet the other MP - remember the last one was building a posh lodge - well this one has a large hardware store and the only shop in town that sells chocolate. He broke off his timber selling to grant me an audience - and agreed that the school should get some money - they are recalling some money from the Tanzanians who build a dodgy Maize Mill and he phoned the Minister in Lusaka to see if we can get 19 million of that - that's half the money that we need for the new build!
I talked with Donata today abour fundraiisng from the White Farmers in the area - we have developed a letter and pack to go to them - but Donata always visits them personally. She has no transport and does this onj foot - it takes 10 days to get round the farms - she goes with a friend and they carry their own food - begging accomodation as sun falls with local villages / farm workers. All my fundraising mates who say fundraising is hard take note!
Finally huge thanks to all who have raised / offered money - we are trying to give the school a total by Thursday - so please its not too late - look at last Saturday's blog for details of how to help or text me on 07977 668 632
Anyway I now have to brave a cold bath in yellow water to scrub myslef up for dinner with the other MP - The Carmen Mirand'esque one. Donata has been coming / not coming all day as it clashes with church. She is now coming as she is hungry - I am fearing that it will be traditional Zambian....I have also had to give Donata a lesson on political astuteness - she sad she wanted to speak to the MP about not standing agaonst Donata's mate in some council election - I said Ididn't feel that would help our cause for cash
Till tomorrow - unless we flood!
R
Monday, 6 December 2010
Back to School
Well I left Flatdogs in an open truck yesterday and all was going well till we had a blow out. We had 30 minutes to get to the airstrip - but hey all hands to the deck as all the locals came out - I'm not sure if they really helped JJ change the tyre as teh truck was lifted, bounced, jacked from all angles but we made it.
Anyway a bumpy flight ended with a smile as in Lusaka airport one of the groundcrew came up and slipped me the number of Hope the stewardess - ha ha - well I must look butch after my time in the bush - she will remain just that - Hope
Anyway another night at teh Marble Inn - you may remember that from an earlier blog - no marble, no hot water and this time no lights!
Up at 5 am to catch the post bus to get to work for 11 - well if the last post bus was eye opening this was eye popping. I don't know what it was but everyone was in a real fiesty mood - and the bus was overloaded - I counted one lady with 15 bags - I guess they just use it to move house. Anyway boarding the bus was more chaotic than I imagine that the last chopper from Vietnam was - but we all got on - and thanks to the conductor who got my bag into a retrievable place.
Anyway we sped, bumped and twisted our way up the Great North Road - 7 of us in our row for 5 - but everything was flying about - I got hit by a suitcase, a saucepan and some maizemael - and then there was a fight - it was good to get off after 5 hours.
Anyway Donata had tried hard with the work I had left her and done most - the main issue being that she had appraised all the staff in a group session so they shared each others strengths and weaknesses - needless to say Chloe who is never late is offended at being called late
Anyway an admin day today - finishing all the paperwork I have designed and absorbing all of their feedback. I will produce final copies later tonight and then we are all systems go. It does feel like we have entered the next stage. School has finished for 4 weeks now - but all the kids are back in on thursday to see me - and apparently they are practising a song etc which is a big secret but was teh reason we couldn't go to school today but ahd to work in my new hut.
Time away in luangwa was great - time to reflect on how little can mean so much to these guys - when you see kids carrying litres of water on their heads - and you realise that local people can't afford to bu the produce they raise you realise something is wrong. I knew that Zambia is poor - it's one of the poorest countries in the world, but as I talk to other people round the country I realise that the people in this town are poor - and to be poor in a poor country is not a great place to be. despite this the laughing, smiles and friendliness of all is contagious.
I am sure we will bring some of the young people from Rathbone here to see this - to help - but as importantly to realise their place in the world and their need to act responsibly and to build them into some kind of Ambassadors. I guess it's about developing their broadest education and experiences - I'm also determined that it won't be just about coming to help build this school - it will also about understanding the culture and beauty of this place - and experiencing things such as seeing elephants, lions and other animals in their rightful place in the ever decreasing bush.
Anyway we are re-doing appraisals tomorrow - then off to see the Chief if he grants us an audience - Donata is scared as there are Lions in the valley - I told her we are going in a cab we should be safe.
Catch up tomorrow
Richard
Anyway a bumpy flight ended with a smile as in Lusaka airport one of the groundcrew came up and slipped me the number of Hope the stewardess - ha ha - well I must look butch after my time in the bush - she will remain just that - Hope
Anyway another night at teh Marble Inn - you may remember that from an earlier blog - no marble, no hot water and this time no lights!
Up at 5 am to catch the post bus to get to work for 11 - well if the last post bus was eye opening this was eye popping. I don't know what it was but everyone was in a real fiesty mood - and the bus was overloaded - I counted one lady with 15 bags - I guess they just use it to move house. Anyway boarding the bus was more chaotic than I imagine that the last chopper from Vietnam was - but we all got on - and thanks to the conductor who got my bag into a retrievable place.
Anyway we sped, bumped and twisted our way up the Great North Road - 7 of us in our row for 5 - but everything was flying about - I got hit by a suitcase, a saucepan and some maizemael - and then there was a fight - it was good to get off after 5 hours.
Anyway Donata had tried hard with the work I had left her and done most - the main issue being that she had appraised all the staff in a group session so they shared each others strengths and weaknesses - needless to say Chloe who is never late is offended at being called late
Anyway an admin day today - finishing all the paperwork I have designed and absorbing all of their feedback. I will produce final copies later tonight and then we are all systems go. It does feel like we have entered the next stage. School has finished for 4 weeks now - but all the kids are back in on thursday to see me - and apparently they are practising a song etc which is a big secret but was teh reason we couldn't go to school today but ahd to work in my new hut.
Time away in luangwa was great - time to reflect on how little can mean so much to these guys - when you see kids carrying litres of water on their heads - and you realise that local people can't afford to bu the produce they raise you realise something is wrong. I knew that Zambia is poor - it's one of the poorest countries in the world, but as I talk to other people round the country I realise that the people in this town are poor - and to be poor in a poor country is not a great place to be. despite this the laughing, smiles and friendliness of all is contagious.
I am sure we will bring some of the young people from Rathbone here to see this - to help - but as importantly to realise their place in the world and their need to act responsibly and to build them into some kind of Ambassadors. I guess it's about developing their broadest education and experiences - I'm also determined that it won't be just about coming to help build this school - it will also about understanding the culture and beauty of this place - and experiencing things such as seeing elephants, lions and other animals in their rightful place in the ever decreasing bush.
Anyway we are re-doing appraisals tomorrow - then off to see the Chief if he grants us an audience - Donata is scared as there are Lions in the valley - I told her we are going in a cab we should be safe.
Catch up tomorrow
Richard
Sunday, 5 December 2010
Flatdogs!
Did I say that I was having a weekend off from being in Mkushi?
Anyway on Fri evening a caught a light aircraft to Mufuwe and grabbed a lift to teh fantastic Flatdogs Camp - I discovered this place when I was overlanding a few years ago and have wanted to come back for a while. Its a campsite set on the shore and boudary of teh Souuth Luangwa National Park - alongside the Lungwa river which has the denseist hoppo population in the world.
On Friday I was met in a layby by the camo and we went straight o a nightdrive. Just me and my guide Robbie in the open topped landrover with the huge electrical storm overhead - but no rain. I got a text from Louise to say it had been minus 14 degrees in Brecon (It was 40 in Lunangwa) and Robbie screamed that I had to text Louise back and tell her not to die!
We immediately saw elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra and impla the headed for sundowners on the ridge. After that it became aazing as it became pitch dark and we were out alone with this huge storm bewing on the plains of Africa. We used a spotlight to pick out hyena, mongoose, fruit bats and all the ight animals you rarely see.
Great food and a few too many beers followed before bed. My tent was by the river and the watchmen scared away a few hippos so that I could get to it - I removed a lizard and spider muttering the words at l;east itrs not a snake
The morning agme drive at 5.30am came too quickly and another great drive followed - in fact I did three more and managed to spot Lions and Leopards as well - and those words at my tent about a snale turned out to be a prophercy as I came fae to face with a long bron sand snale on my patio!
Anyway sitting by the river was a great place to finish the final plans for next week at the shool with the background sights and sounds of the hippos
Ayway back to Lusaka shortly then the post bus to school
R
Anyway on Fri evening a caught a light aircraft to Mufuwe and grabbed a lift to teh fantastic Flatdogs Camp - I discovered this place when I was overlanding a few years ago and have wanted to come back for a while. Its a campsite set on the shore and boudary of teh Souuth Luangwa National Park - alongside the Lungwa river which has the denseist hoppo population in the world.
On Friday I was met in a layby by the camo and we went straight o a nightdrive. Just me and my guide Robbie in the open topped landrover with the huge electrical storm overhead - but no rain. I got a text from Louise to say it had been minus 14 degrees in Brecon (It was 40 in Lunangwa) and Robbie screamed that I had to text Louise back and tell her not to die!
We immediately saw elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra and impla the headed for sundowners on the ridge. After that it became aazing as it became pitch dark and we were out alone with this huge storm bewing on the plains of Africa. We used a spotlight to pick out hyena, mongoose, fruit bats and all the ight animals you rarely see.
Great food and a few too many beers followed before bed. My tent was by the river and the watchmen scared away a few hippos so that I could get to it - I removed a lizard and spider muttering the words at l;east itrs not a snake
The morning agme drive at 5.30am came too quickly and another great drive followed - in fact I did three more and managed to spot Lions and Leopards as well - and those words at my tent about a snale turned out to be a prophercy as I came fae to face with a long bron sand snale on my patio!
Anyway sitting by the river was a great place to finish the final plans for next week at the shool with the background sights and sounds of the hippos
Ayway back to Lusaka shortly then the post bus to school
R
Saturday, 4 December 2010
Important if you want to help
No Blog yesterday - apologies but I had a bectic morning in Lusaka and then caught a flight about 4pm up to the Luangwa Valley and straight out ont a night safari - you see I am having a weekend off from Donata and Mkushi. Donata is convinced I will get eaten and calls me about every hour to check I'm safe....she will run out of talktine soon!
Anyway Lusaka was good - I had a good catch up meeting with Christine - my leadership coach - and planned the next phase. It's looking as though next week will be my last in Mkushi - as the last tasks need to be completed in Lusaka - and as this whole adventure has a personal developmet remiot to it I must also have some reflection time - today is the first day I have not worked for several weeks.
Anyhow it was good to meet up with the others and discuss experiences - and also to sort soe additional support for teh School - and start to plan for rathbone coming out here next year.
I do laugh in Lusaka - we stopped at some lights at teh bigest roundabout in town and there were theusual guys in the road selling their wares - in the time it took for one light cange I had been offered through the car window -
An infatable superman
2 live ducks
A tummy tuck
and what I can only describe as Mallets Mallet
Anyway it was great to sort out some additional support for Donat - thanks to the IT guys at Rathbone who are sourcing some obsolete IT equipment.
Anyway so many of you have asked how you can help, which I really wasn;t expecting - and equally I know that colleagues at Rathbone are fundraising - thank you for that.
The main thing we need is cash to be honest - for 3 things -
1. School running costs
2. text books
3. A bore hole for water at teh new site
Small cash makes a big difference - a tenner feeds this school for a week - 25 quid pays fora teacher for a month
Adrienne Hunt the looca patron has agreed to manage any donations to make sure the are spent appropriately - and to provide financial records.
The easiest and chepaest way to get them cash if for anyone wo wants to support to transfer money to my UK bank account and will do a cash withdrawal nxt Thursday to ahnd over the cash at teh end of term party.
Small amounts really will amke a big difference - as you will see from the pictures on the blog (there is also a link on the side to more pics)
Carole my PA in Ponttypridd had agreed to be co-ordinator for any donations - thanks Carole - so if you want to help email / call her - carole.papworth@rathboneuk.org or 01443 491 853 and Carole will help get the cash to Donata
If you want to send equipment I will post an address next week
Thanks guys - all your offers of support are unexpected but appreciated
Tomorrow I will tell you about my weekend off at teh amazing Flatdogs Camp and the night with the hippos!
R
Anyway Lusaka was good - I had a good catch up meeting with Christine - my leadership coach - and planned the next phase. It's looking as though next week will be my last in Mkushi - as the last tasks need to be completed in Lusaka - and as this whole adventure has a personal developmet remiot to it I must also have some reflection time - today is the first day I have not worked for several weeks.
Anyhow it was good to meet up with the others and discuss experiences - and also to sort soe additional support for teh School - and start to plan for rathbone coming out here next year.
I do laugh in Lusaka - we stopped at some lights at teh bigest roundabout in town and there were theusual guys in the road selling their wares - in the time it took for one light cange I had been offered through the car window -
An infatable superman
2 live ducks
A tummy tuck
and what I can only describe as Mallets Mallet
Anyway it was great to sort out some additional support for Donat - thanks to the IT guys at Rathbone who are sourcing some obsolete IT equipment.
Anyway so many of you have asked how you can help, which I really wasn;t expecting - and equally I know that colleagues at Rathbone are fundraising - thank you for that.
The main thing we need is cash to be honest - for 3 things -
1. School running costs
2. text books
3. A bore hole for water at teh new site
Small cash makes a big difference - a tenner feeds this school for a week - 25 quid pays fora teacher for a month
Adrienne Hunt the looca patron has agreed to manage any donations to make sure the are spent appropriately - and to provide financial records.
The easiest and chepaest way to get them cash if for anyone wo wants to support to transfer money to my UK bank account and will do a cash withdrawal nxt Thursday to ahnd over the cash at teh end of term party.
Small amounts really will amke a big difference - as you will see from the pictures on the blog (there is also a link on the side to more pics)
Carole my PA in Ponttypridd had agreed to be co-ordinator for any donations - thanks Carole - so if you want to help email / call her - carole.papworth@rathboneuk.org or 01443 491 853 and Carole will help get the cash to Donata
If you want to send equipment I will post an address next week
Thanks guys - all your offers of support are unexpected but appreciated
Tomorrow I will tell you about my weekend off at teh amazing Flatdogs Camp and the night with the hippos!
R
Thursday, 2 December 2010
Lusaka!
Well, I'm, in Lusaka - I did the 5.30am start!
From the Harvest Inn I had to take a taxi to the junction of the Great north Road where I was to flag down a bus....it is then really just luck as to whether you get a good bus or a bad bus.
Anyway there was one taxi in teh market at 5.45 - so I jumped in - noticed how cracked his windscreen was - then bartered on the price - he asked for £2.50 for the 2 km drive - I got him down to a pound.We had the normal banter about where I was off to then he said he would take me to Kipiri Moshi for just a fiver. Its about 110knm away - and it turns out the driver was from there and was chuffed to get a return fare - hence the cheap price - it is also a better place to get a bus as it has a bus station and is on the join of 2 routes.
I agreed, then started to doubt if the taxi would get there - we had to tie my rucksack into the boot as the boot didn't shut and flew open as we went over pot holes. The crack in the windsceen seemed to get bigger and then the driver confessed he hadn't been to bed.
All that aside it was amazing - dawn was breaking and Zambia was waking up - in the countryside they were starting fires outside their huts, setting up their satlls of tomatoes and firewood at the roadside - and putting the ox's into harness in order to start ploughing. The only downside was the drivers country and western CD.
Anyway we picked up some others and got to Kapri Moshi - the bus station was like any bus station in the developing world as I wobbled through slightly ill balanced with my ruck sack and other bags. Again it was great to watch - people were setting up their stalls, the caterpillar lady was counting caterpillars into bags - and the lad infront of me was making an ornate tower our of packets of crips. people were there with their luggage, huge bags, chickens in makeshift cages of string and branches, goats, buckets of fruit etc
Three busses to Lusaka didn't stop as they were full - and after an hour I got one - the Mzungu has got his bus they cried as IO got on the bus - the bus pulled out and I was still in the aisle - I looked at about 100 faces looking at the White Man on the bus - and then realised there were no seats....was I to sit in teh aisle. Anyway conductor to the rescue - and 8 of us and 6 bags shared a row of 5 seats......I helped Thomas a six year old with his spellings.Thomas and his siter were travelling from Tanzania to Namibia to start a new life after being orphaned - 57 hours on busses - with no real idea what was at the end other than their uncle - hey I could be cramped for 3 hours.
Well Lusaka Bus Station was like Victoria Coach Station on speed, but somehow I retrieved my bag - haggled a taxi driver down - questioning why on 30 degree heat with 3 bags in the middle of chaos was I haggling over a pound.
Then off to my hotel - I have hot water for the first time since arrival - and have done a load of work trying to link Donata up with other similar organisations around the world, trying to get them a VSO placement etc - also I have emailed some of my personal contacts such as Edexcel and Pearson in the hope of getting some resources for the school.
Anyway I'm off to meet the other 2 guys from Wales for a beer shortly which will be great - and some food - my steak last night was a disapointment - Mr Charlie the owner returned to the hotel so I couldn't go into the kitchen - Chef took 90 minutes to grill my steak so you can imagine what it was like - still I had been knocking back the beers with Peter from Mkushi radio so all was fine!
Good news is by tomorrow the blog should have pictures - they are downloading as I type!
R
From the Harvest Inn I had to take a taxi to the junction of the Great north Road where I was to flag down a bus....it is then really just luck as to whether you get a good bus or a bad bus.
Anyway there was one taxi in teh market at 5.45 - so I jumped in - noticed how cracked his windscreen was - then bartered on the price - he asked for £2.50 for the 2 km drive - I got him down to a pound.We had the normal banter about where I was off to then he said he would take me to Kipiri Moshi for just a fiver. Its about 110knm away - and it turns out the driver was from there and was chuffed to get a return fare - hence the cheap price - it is also a better place to get a bus as it has a bus station and is on the join of 2 routes.
I agreed, then started to doubt if the taxi would get there - we had to tie my rucksack into the boot as the boot didn't shut and flew open as we went over pot holes. The crack in the windsceen seemed to get bigger and then the driver confessed he hadn't been to bed.
All that aside it was amazing - dawn was breaking and Zambia was waking up - in the countryside they were starting fires outside their huts, setting up their satlls of tomatoes and firewood at the roadside - and putting the ox's into harness in order to start ploughing. The only downside was the drivers country and western CD.
Anyway we picked up some others and got to Kapri Moshi - the bus station was like any bus station in the developing world as I wobbled through slightly ill balanced with my ruck sack and other bags. Again it was great to watch - people were setting up their stalls, the caterpillar lady was counting caterpillars into bags - and the lad infront of me was making an ornate tower our of packets of crips. people were there with their luggage, huge bags, chickens in makeshift cages of string and branches, goats, buckets of fruit etc
Three busses to Lusaka didn't stop as they were full - and after an hour I got one - the Mzungu has got his bus they cried as IO got on the bus - the bus pulled out and I was still in the aisle - I looked at about 100 faces looking at the White Man on the bus - and then realised there were no seats....was I to sit in teh aisle. Anyway conductor to the rescue - and 8 of us and 6 bags shared a row of 5 seats......I helped Thomas a six year old with his spellings.Thomas and his siter were travelling from Tanzania to Namibia to start a new life after being orphaned - 57 hours on busses - with no real idea what was at the end other than their uncle - hey I could be cramped for 3 hours.
Well Lusaka Bus Station was like Victoria Coach Station on speed, but somehow I retrieved my bag - haggled a taxi driver down - questioning why on 30 degree heat with 3 bags in the middle of chaos was I haggling over a pound.
Then off to my hotel - I have hot water for the first time since arrival - and have done a load of work trying to link Donata up with other similar organisations around the world, trying to get them a VSO placement etc - also I have emailed some of my personal contacts such as Edexcel and Pearson in the hope of getting some resources for the school.
Anyway I'm off to meet the other 2 guys from Wales for a beer shortly which will be great - and some food - my steak last night was a disapointment - Mr Charlie the owner returned to the hotel so I couldn't go into the kitchen - Chef took 90 minutes to grill my steak so you can imagine what it was like - still I had been knocking back the beers with Peter from Mkushi radio so all was fine!
Good news is by tomorrow the blog should have pictures - they are downloading as I type!
R
Wednesday, 1 December 2010
Another great day in the dust
Hey
Well a really good 24 hours - after blogging yesterday we went into the small township over the bridge to get soft drinks for today's Parent's meeting - it seems that bribery of a imitation coca cola will be enough to egt them to show up! The township was the first real time that I have had a bit of tension about being the white man - what was great however was that I am obviously known in this town - after a bit of verbal grief from some guys in a bar - the others in the street were sticking up for me saying - no he is our friend, he is helping us.
Anyway I battelled back with 2 trays of soft drinks - feeling rather inadequate against the women who had sacks of maize on their heads and babies on their backs.
Anyway then the Aids day vigil - it started with a procession with bands, majorettes, the police and many council members - with many joining in traditional and singing - and we were joined by nuns, priests, teh old and the young - then we spent a while of the village football pitch with prayers and songs and candles - after which they moved onto church - it was emotive - I confess to a lump in the throat - I think the African singing, the chanting, the electric storm in the distance and the drumming were really quite haunting
Anyway up really early today for the parents mornning - I was a bit nervous as I called this meeting to introduce the new terms of reference for the PTA and to get the parents views for the self assessment process. I say parents but obviously with as many orphans as the school has pupils were represented by older brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles.
50% of the kids were represented and teh meeting was amazing - some had walked 8 miles each way to join us - and we sat under the Mango trees - with 2 of the teachers acting as translators as we had to translate into two different tribal languages. The 'parents' really participated - singing, laughing, praying and breastfeeding through the meeting whilst giving really valuable data about the school.
We then met mrs Hunt the main donor for the school, I went through all that I had done to date - she seems pleased - and we also discussed the use of sustainable energy at the new school site - I am going to have a longer discussion with her at her farm next week. However I met her at her Butcher's shop and realised the issue - the average black can't afford to buy decent beef here - despite a huge national cattle herd. however teh Chef at the Harvest Inn is tonight going to cook a perfect steak and chips - as I have bought direct from the farm - and I am going in the kitchen with him to cook Western style! It will probably the first time I get any form of food poisoning this trip.
This afternoon Donata wanted me to meet the Priest who she holds in high esteem - I'm not saying much - just what a big house, big satelitte dish and the first DVD player I ahve seen here
Anyway we also then had a trek as we had a power cut and we had to print a letter for Mr LuLu the head of education - the internet cafe had lent their generator to teh hardware store - we went there and they had lent it to someone else - after 90 minutes of searching for the generator we were saved by the power comming back
Thats about it - just a funny anecdote - just walking here a young girl about 6 was pointing at me - shrieking with laughter at teh white man and walking backwards - until she went head first into a ditch causing much laugher across teh amrket.
Tomorrow I go back to lusaka - as I need to use a good internet connection to get resources for the school - Im on the local bus again - and have to be at teh North Road Junction at 5.30am - tomorrow I am meting two other Welsh people on teh same programme for dinner in Lusaka - then I have my learning review on Friday with Christine my assigned leadership coach - hopefully we will get some kind of connection in Lusaka
I am shattered its been long days and constant for 2 weeks - so I spending teh weekend away from Mkushi - in one of Zambia's best Game Reserves - camping next to the river with the hippos and crocs
I know I'm coming back on Monday - but I'm going to miss this place - but I have to go to Lusaka - I have promised the school an end of term party next Wednesday and i have to get supplies - only one pupil in teh school has ever tasted chocolate
Take care - and speak to all you guys tomorrow from lusaka!
R
Well a really good 24 hours - after blogging yesterday we went into the small township over the bridge to get soft drinks for today's Parent's meeting - it seems that bribery of a imitation coca cola will be enough to egt them to show up! The township was the first real time that I have had a bit of tension about being the white man - what was great however was that I am obviously known in this town - after a bit of verbal grief from some guys in a bar - the others in the street were sticking up for me saying - no he is our friend, he is helping us.
Anyway I battelled back with 2 trays of soft drinks - feeling rather inadequate against the women who had sacks of maize on their heads and babies on their backs.
Anyway then the Aids day vigil - it started with a procession with bands, majorettes, the police and many council members - with many joining in traditional and singing - and we were joined by nuns, priests, teh old and the young - then we spent a while of the village football pitch with prayers and songs and candles - after which they moved onto church - it was emotive - I confess to a lump in the throat - I think the African singing, the chanting, the electric storm in the distance and the drumming were really quite haunting
Anyway up really early today for the parents mornning - I was a bit nervous as I called this meeting to introduce the new terms of reference for the PTA and to get the parents views for the self assessment process. I say parents but obviously with as many orphans as the school has pupils were represented by older brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles.
50% of the kids were represented and teh meeting was amazing - some had walked 8 miles each way to join us - and we sat under the Mango trees - with 2 of the teachers acting as translators as we had to translate into two different tribal languages. The 'parents' really participated - singing, laughing, praying and breastfeeding through the meeting whilst giving really valuable data about the school.
We then met mrs Hunt the main donor for the school, I went through all that I had done to date - she seems pleased - and we also discussed the use of sustainable energy at the new school site - I am going to have a longer discussion with her at her farm next week. However I met her at her Butcher's shop and realised the issue - the average black can't afford to buy decent beef here - despite a huge national cattle herd. however teh Chef at the Harvest Inn is tonight going to cook a perfect steak and chips - as I have bought direct from the farm - and I am going in the kitchen with him to cook Western style! It will probably the first time I get any form of food poisoning this trip.
This afternoon Donata wanted me to meet the Priest who she holds in high esteem - I'm not saying much - just what a big house, big satelitte dish and the first DVD player I ahve seen here
Anyway we also then had a trek as we had a power cut and we had to print a letter for Mr LuLu the head of education - the internet cafe had lent their generator to teh hardware store - we went there and they had lent it to someone else - after 90 minutes of searching for the generator we were saved by the power comming back
Thats about it - just a funny anecdote - just walking here a young girl about 6 was pointing at me - shrieking with laughter at teh white man and walking backwards - until she went head first into a ditch causing much laugher across teh amrket.
Tomorrow I go back to lusaka - as I need to use a good internet connection to get resources for the school - Im on the local bus again - and have to be at teh North Road Junction at 5.30am - tomorrow I am meting two other Welsh people on teh same programme for dinner in Lusaka - then I have my learning review on Friday with Christine my assigned leadership coach - hopefully we will get some kind of connection in Lusaka
I am shattered its been long days and constant for 2 weeks - so I spending teh weekend away from Mkushi - in one of Zambia's best Game Reserves - camping next to the river with the hippos and crocs
I know I'm coming back on Monday - but I'm going to miss this place - but I have to go to Lusaka - I have promised the school an end of term party next Wednesday and i have to get supplies - only one pupil in teh school has ever tasted chocolate
Take care - and speak to all you guys tomorrow from lusaka!
R
Tuesday, 30 November 2010
A Pig on a Bike
An early blog today as I am doing the candlelit worlds aids day thing later - and Donata has gone to a funeral giving me some unusual afternoon space.
well I think there is a new cook at the Harvest Inn, last night it was steak - and it had some life left in it! We then had the most major storm I have ever seen and heard (and felt as my hut shook in the thunder)
Anyway today is pay day in Zambia - well supposedly - there are huge queues outside some of the banks - and it appears that a number of people have not been paid which is common place. Donata's daughter is a teacher in a government school and this is her 3rd month with no - admin issue apparently - equally the Programming Director of Mkushi Radio said that he has gone 2 months without pay when I grabbed a beer with him last night.
Being a radio man he was interested in what music I liked - and teh whole bar become involved in this discussion so I went to get my ipod and speakers. The verdict
Take That - the jury is out
Freemanson and Goldfrapp - a definate no
Amy Winehouse - a huge row with noone here accepting that she is white!
Anyway up early today and got the Orphan application to the MP - then we waited for Mrs Hunt to come with the money to pay the teachers - she didn't show - so our teachers will also go without pay today - but they are promised cash tomorrow. this was interesting in that they totally accepted this - and actually in teh self assessment exercise actually put although they weren't paid much they did at least get the cash every month unlike many in this country.
I bought bananas from teh lady outside the Harvest Inn today - she always comments that I never buy from her - not intentional just I'm always past het when I start working out what I want - my impulse purchase prompted a Banana Dance from her and we both did a little sing song in the treet. This was interupted by the most horrific noise and I turned round to see a Pig - restrained in a sack, strapped across the cross bar of a push bike and being pushed...presumably towards some type of end.
I had a conversation with Donata about staff today - she wanted more - it reminded me of conversations at work with Centre managers - I said she didn't ahve the budget for a new staff member - she told me to find the cash - I said we can't just print it.....and then - I guess that this is different from our centre managers - she said maybe I could write to the Queen for some cash - I reminded Donata how she had told me last week with great pride that she had been a Freedom Fighter for independence from the UK - Donat smiled and said 'yes but she has cash'
Anyway speak later
R
well I think there is a new cook at the Harvest Inn, last night it was steak - and it had some life left in it! We then had the most major storm I have ever seen and heard (and felt as my hut shook in the thunder)
Anyway today is pay day in Zambia - well supposedly - there are huge queues outside some of the banks - and it appears that a number of people have not been paid which is common place. Donata's daughter is a teacher in a government school and this is her 3rd month with no - admin issue apparently - equally the Programming Director of Mkushi Radio said that he has gone 2 months without pay when I grabbed a beer with him last night.
Being a radio man he was interested in what music I liked - and teh whole bar become involved in this discussion so I went to get my ipod and speakers. The verdict
Take That - the jury is out
Freemanson and Goldfrapp - a definate no
Amy Winehouse - a huge row with noone here accepting that she is white!
Anyway up early today and got the Orphan application to the MP - then we waited for Mrs Hunt to come with the money to pay the teachers - she didn't show - so our teachers will also go without pay today - but they are promised cash tomorrow. this was interesting in that they totally accepted this - and actually in teh self assessment exercise actually put although they weren't paid much they did at least get the cash every month unlike many in this country.
I bought bananas from teh lady outside the Harvest Inn today - she always comments that I never buy from her - not intentional just I'm always past het when I start working out what I want - my impulse purchase prompted a Banana Dance from her and we both did a little sing song in the treet. This was interupted by the most horrific noise and I turned round to see a Pig - restrained in a sack, strapped across the cross bar of a push bike and being pushed...presumably towards some type of end.
I had a conversation with Donata about staff today - she wanted more - it reminded me of conversations at work with Centre managers - I said she didn't ahve the budget for a new staff member - she told me to find the cash - I said we can't just print it.....and then - I guess that this is different from our centre managers - she said maybe I could write to the Queen for some cash - I reminded Donata how she had told me last week with great pride that she had been a Freedom Fighter for independence from the UK - Donat smiled and said 'yes but she has cash'
Anyway speak later
R
Monday, 29 November 2010
Hunting the MP
Ok - due the rains, and power cuts its third time lucky on this blog...
Thanks to all those who commented on yesterday's lack of blog....it was tubleweed Sunday here - even the peanut stall was closed - and the locals just walked around the market as normal - but with all the stalls closed. There was the usual rounds of hello, hello, high five, high five - and after certain high fives reaching for the anti bac hand wash.
Anyway the Harvest Inn on saturday night was a bit like that bar in Priscilla Queen of the Desert - not the ping pong one! - and they managed to rustle up a very gristly Chicken Leg - so after the earliest Saturday night I have had since childhood I was up with the lark on Sunday - did a load of work - and decided to walk to the lodge about 90 minutes down the road in seach of food.
It was great to get outside of teh village - the fresh African air and quietness - was loveley and I then started to realise I was slightly lost - however striding up the track came a 7 foot vision on purple - I asked her the way and she replied in perfect English with a slightly alarming mid-Atlantic twang that I should follow her. Melody was in Grade 12 and wanted to eb a doctor and was hoping to study in the Uk - we chatted - and then she asked me to slow down - she couldn't keep up in her large heel...well who wears heels in the bush.
Anyway I got to the lode to discover that they also only had Chicken Leg on the menu - I tried a portion and failed and returned back to work - I ahd teh business plan to finish for the MP.
We were outside the MP's office at 8.30 for her appointment - she is just coming we were told, though Donata moaned about her unreliableness - at 11.30 am I joined in the koaning as we left - however not before I sneaked the MPs mobile number from the wall behind her secretary. I phoned and there was no answer - Donata said 'There won't be' so I decided to text her - I ahve never texted an MP before, let alone one I don't know and definately not a Zambian one. There was no reply.
Walking through the village at lnchtime a jeep swerved towards me - the window wound down- and what I can only descriobe as Carmen Miranda - with a yellow top, braided affro black and blond hair and lashings of gold eye liner shried 'Mzungu (white man) - I have no talk time to reply, come to my lodge at 4pm'.
This it seems was teh MP and I was recognised purely on the basis of being a white man in this town.
So I did my radio interview - I think the journalist saw me as white bait and tried his best to be Paxman and then we caught a taxi to the MP's lodge.
It is about 4 miles out of town - Donata was a bit twitch as it was in Cobra Country - but here the MP is building a luxury lodge and conference centre - something else from Politics I guess with an election looming.
We were told that she was busy and were about to turn away when there was a shriek that we would eb seen - we went ina nd were served fanta from a silver tray.
I presented the school plans to het - and like all politicians I had the lecture about priorities and lack of cash - then her Dad walked in, in a suit and bowler cap - and he had only lived in Cardiff at one time. So suddenly the meeting cahnged - cash was promised for Phase One of the relocation.
The MP then moaned that the President was on her back - she had to find 5 orphanages to support by tomorrow - well you all know that I can blag - and 90% of the students are orphans - so I told her that we would be an orphanage if we could have the cash for the dormitories - an application is going endorsed by her to the central government tomorrow. If she keeps her words we have all the capital secured for the relocation - and I ahve been invited for dinner next week.
On the way out I caught Donata looking at one of the rooms in the lodge and saying a prayer of thanks...
In the taxi she said, 'Richard, you achieved what Napoleon did not - and audience with the President'.
Tomorrow I am to meet the white farmer who supports the school - and the staff - then I have been invited to be a guest of honour and the HIV Candlelight vigil for World Aids day - with 15% of the population in this district HIV positive I expect this will be a moving memory of my time here
Take care - we have sun, lightening, thunder and a rainbow all in one here!
R
Thanks to all those who commented on yesterday's lack of blog....it was tubleweed Sunday here - even the peanut stall was closed - and the locals just walked around the market as normal - but with all the stalls closed. There was the usual rounds of hello, hello, high five, high five - and after certain high fives reaching for the anti bac hand wash.
Anyway the Harvest Inn on saturday night was a bit like that bar in Priscilla Queen of the Desert - not the ping pong one! - and they managed to rustle up a very gristly Chicken Leg - so after the earliest Saturday night I have had since childhood I was up with the lark on Sunday - did a load of work - and decided to walk to the lodge about 90 minutes down the road in seach of food.
It was great to get outside of teh village - the fresh African air and quietness - was loveley and I then started to realise I was slightly lost - however striding up the track came a 7 foot vision on purple - I asked her the way and she replied in perfect English with a slightly alarming mid-Atlantic twang that I should follow her. Melody was in Grade 12 and wanted to eb a doctor and was hoping to study in the Uk - we chatted - and then she asked me to slow down - she couldn't keep up in her large heel...well who wears heels in the bush.
Anyway I got to the lode to discover that they also only had Chicken Leg on the menu - I tried a portion and failed and returned back to work - I ahd teh business plan to finish for the MP.
We were outside the MP's office at 8.30 for her appointment - she is just coming we were told, though Donata moaned about her unreliableness - at 11.30 am I joined in the koaning as we left - however not before I sneaked the MPs mobile number from the wall behind her secretary. I phoned and there was no answer - Donata said 'There won't be' so I decided to text her - I ahve never texted an MP before, let alone one I don't know and definately not a Zambian one. There was no reply.
Walking through the village at lnchtime a jeep swerved towards me - the window wound down- and what I can only descriobe as Carmen Miranda - with a yellow top, braided affro black and blond hair and lashings of gold eye liner shried 'Mzungu (white man) - I have no talk time to reply, come to my lodge at 4pm'.
This it seems was teh MP and I was recognised purely on the basis of being a white man in this town.
So I did my radio interview - I think the journalist saw me as white bait and tried his best to be Paxman and then we caught a taxi to the MP's lodge.
It is about 4 miles out of town - Donata was a bit twitch as it was in Cobra Country - but here the MP is building a luxury lodge and conference centre - something else from Politics I guess with an election looming.
We were told that she was busy and were about to turn away when there was a shriek that we would eb seen - we went ina nd were served fanta from a silver tray.
I presented the school plans to het - and like all politicians I had the lecture about priorities and lack of cash - then her Dad walked in, in a suit and bowler cap - and he had only lived in Cardiff at one time. So suddenly the meeting cahnged - cash was promised for Phase One of the relocation.
The MP then moaned that the President was on her back - she had to find 5 orphanages to support by tomorrow - well you all know that I can blag - and 90% of the students are orphans - so I told her that we would be an orphanage if we could have the cash for the dormitories - an application is going endorsed by her to the central government tomorrow. If she keeps her words we have all the capital secured for the relocation - and I ahve been invited for dinner next week.
On the way out I caught Donata looking at one of the rooms in the lodge and saying a prayer of thanks...
In the taxi she said, 'Richard, you achieved what Napoleon did not - and audience with the President'.
Tomorrow I am to meet the white farmer who supports the school - and the staff - then I have been invited to be a guest of honour and the HIV Candlelight vigil for World Aids day - with 15% of the population in this district HIV positive I expect this will be a moving memory of my time here
Take care - we have sun, lightening, thunder and a rainbow all in one here!
R
Saturday, 27 November 2010
Frogs and ex-pats
After last nights Blog it rained big style - so much so that the internet cafe (if you can call 2 pcs and some dodgy wiring that) where I was taking refuge flooded....
Anyway I was chuffed when I got back to the hut that I thought I had managed to persuade the cook to do me egg and chips - this she did manage with the eggs coming about an hour before the chips....anyway I then went for a beer and bumped into the 'Programme Director' of Mkushi Radio where I am to appear on Monday -he was sat sipping a wine (very uncommon here) with his Cardigan and Tie on - media types can be the same the world over!
Anyway surprise of my life when I got back to the hut as I opened the door and something jumped about 3 foot in the air at me - it was only a frog with bright red eyes - some may say that it is not the first time I have encountered a frog on a Friday night !!
Anyway today has been work - there's not much else to do in mkushi to be honest - so I called a staff training day - I am not sure how much my new appraisal process, targets, absence monitoring and code of conduct for the school - but it is needed - I have removed from the staff contracts that phrase -
"If a Pupil does not achieve - do not weep - use corporal punishment'
Anyway a lot of the prep work is nearing completion - our new finance system goes live on Wed - and we launch the business plan in an attempt to get funding on money - guess this is all moving very fast into the next phase - which will be good as the staff are going to have to take responsibility for it all
Tonight I am doing some more work on th Self Assessment report - after all there's no Strictly, X Factor or Charles Street here - I just collated teh returns from the pupils and it is startling how many are asking to board at school - I guess a sad refection of their home situation. At least working evenings and weekends will make sure that the job gets done - and I may be able to grab a few days at the end to see another part of this huge country
I saw a white person in the Market today - I even hovered outside God's General Store which she was in - she came out I smiled - I had a vision of grabbing a beer with some good conversation - then the bitch blanked me!
Anyway the market closed early today - caught me out so I just have peanuts and bananas
It could be a lively night in Mkushi - the UN rolled into town today and paid the farmers for their Maize - they are on the local home brew already
See you tomorrow and we will see what the holy day brings
R
Anyway I was chuffed when I got back to the hut that I thought I had managed to persuade the cook to do me egg and chips - this she did manage with the eggs coming about an hour before the chips....anyway I then went for a beer and bumped into the 'Programme Director' of Mkushi Radio where I am to appear on Monday -he was sat sipping a wine (very uncommon here) with his Cardigan and Tie on - media types can be the same the world over!
Anyway surprise of my life when I got back to the hut as I opened the door and something jumped about 3 foot in the air at me - it was only a frog with bright red eyes - some may say that it is not the first time I have encountered a frog on a Friday night !!
Anyway today has been work - there's not much else to do in mkushi to be honest - so I called a staff training day - I am not sure how much my new appraisal process, targets, absence monitoring and code of conduct for the school - but it is needed - I have removed from the staff contracts that phrase -
"If a Pupil does not achieve - do not weep - use corporal punishment'
Anyway a lot of the prep work is nearing completion - our new finance system goes live on Wed - and we launch the business plan in an attempt to get funding on money - guess this is all moving very fast into the next phase - which will be good as the staff are going to have to take responsibility for it all
Tonight I am doing some more work on th Self Assessment report - after all there's no Strictly, X Factor or Charles Street here - I just collated teh returns from the pupils and it is startling how many are asking to board at school - I guess a sad refection of their home situation. At least working evenings and weekends will make sure that the job gets done - and I may be able to grab a few days at the end to see another part of this huge country
I saw a white person in the Market today - I even hovered outside God's General Store which she was in - she came out I smiled - I had a vision of grabbing a beer with some good conversation - then the bitch blanked me!
Anyway the market closed early today - caught me out so I just have peanuts and bananas
It could be a lively night in Mkushi - the UN rolled into town today and paid the farmers for their Maize - they are on the local home brew already
See you tomorrow and we will see what the holy day brings
R
Friday, 26 November 2010
Rollercoaster day
not really sure where to start today - I worked last night on the business plan - and got quite a lot done - but it does feel like one step forward - fifteen back at times...
I went to school this morning - which was great - I don't go every day as much of my work involves seeing stakeholders etc so I base myself in my hut and the council offices etc - as always the kids were on good form - and I set the teachers off working with the young people getting their thoughts on what was good and what was bad about school - a key part of any self assessment process.
Donata arrived and we reviewed yesterdays work - and once again all the goalposts had changed - and facts and figures were different to all those that we used yesterday in the financial modellling. I know that I am not good at hiding when I am pissed off - maybe that should be part of my learning journey!
Anyway I have been ferretting round the school office and have found a lot of empty files - a new financial records system, staff appraisals and performance management have been added onto my list of things to do - that met with long faces from some of the staff -
Anyway I was humbled and then stumped by the kids - the self assessment came back saying that they would like a school uniform, a computer (yes just one), clean toilets, ventilation, painted walls and better qualified teachers - they like the fact that there is a school and there is a huge thumbs up to the fact that they get lunch. I was supposed to do the same exercise with the teachers but they have asked for the weekend to work on their answer - I was then stumped with a question about western toilets - when you flush and the poss goes down the pipe where does it end up?
Anyway I then decided to go back to my hut so I could do some work - school is fun but there is no peace and we would only change the contents of this business plan again - I wasn't then banking on the teachers and Donata all coming to my hut and sitting on my bed to watch me work (note I have no where else to sit other than my bed). So I said that I needed to go shopping - yeah a likely story like John Lewis Mkushi has just opened! but I got peace and have been able to crack on with financial and appraisal systems.
I was slightly disturbed by a very small scaley face with a little tongue poking out - peeping round the door - I waited - baited breath - and was relieved when it moved forward that it had legs - so was a lizard not a snake....hello mr lizard you are welcome!
Thanks again for the texts - and those that moaned away to last night - and the special award for tact goes to Parker...after just having an avocado and a peanut butter sandwich all day yesterday it was great to know that you had consumed a Marks and Spencer - 2 can dine for 10.99 to yourself!
Well you should hear the rain and the thunder - ick....
Speak later and I'll tell you about friday night at the Harvest Inn!
R
I went to school this morning - which was great - I don't go every day as much of my work involves seeing stakeholders etc so I base myself in my hut and the council offices etc - as always the kids were on good form - and I set the teachers off working with the young people getting their thoughts on what was good and what was bad about school - a key part of any self assessment process.
Donata arrived and we reviewed yesterdays work - and once again all the goalposts had changed - and facts and figures were different to all those that we used yesterday in the financial modellling. I know that I am not good at hiding when I am pissed off - maybe that should be part of my learning journey!
Anyway I have been ferretting round the school office and have found a lot of empty files - a new financial records system, staff appraisals and performance management have been added onto my list of things to do - that met with long faces from some of the staff -
Anyway I was humbled and then stumped by the kids - the self assessment came back saying that they would like a school uniform, a computer (yes just one), clean toilets, ventilation, painted walls and better qualified teachers - they like the fact that there is a school and there is a huge thumbs up to the fact that they get lunch. I was supposed to do the same exercise with the teachers but they have asked for the weekend to work on their answer - I was then stumped with a question about western toilets - when you flush and the poss goes down the pipe where does it end up?
Anyway I then decided to go back to my hut so I could do some work - school is fun but there is no peace and we would only change the contents of this business plan again - I wasn't then banking on the teachers and Donata all coming to my hut and sitting on my bed to watch me work (note I have no where else to sit other than my bed). So I said that I needed to go shopping - yeah a likely story like John Lewis Mkushi has just opened! but I got peace and have been able to crack on with financial and appraisal systems.
I was slightly disturbed by a very small scaley face with a little tongue poking out - peeping round the door - I waited - baited breath - and was relieved when it moved forward that it had legs - so was a lizard not a snake....hello mr lizard you are welcome!
Thanks again for the texts - and those that moaned away to last night - and the special award for tact goes to Parker...after just having an avocado and a peanut butter sandwich all day yesterday it was great to know that you had consumed a Marks and Spencer - 2 can dine for 10.99 to yourself!
Well you should hear the rain and the thunder - ick....
Speak later and I'll tell you about friday night at the Harvest Inn!
R
Thursday, 25 November 2010
Toss
What a weird day - and loads of ups and downs
This morning Donata wanted to visit the education department - so we went their and there was noone in so we waited - and waited - then gave up - then I was to meet the District Comissioner - he seemed pleased to see me - and had the first air con that I have come across - he also had a selection of flags on his desk - and bizarely a 5 foot high gold painted Maize plant. He also had gout - so I sympathised as a fellow sufferer and then offered him my miracle tablet - maybe he will fund the school.
I thin had the amazing news that out Aberdare and Ponty centres from work have raised 350 quid to sponsor a teacher - that's amazing - I have not told the school yet.
We then went to school and had a staff meeting so that I could update them on my progress - it was idyllic under the mango tree until the rains hit. There were no school lunches today as the cook was at a funeral - there are only 4 staff members at the school and 3 working days this week have been lost to different funerals - it's a sad reflection of this village. You see Mkushi is a staging post on the great north road - traffic passes here from Tanzania - heading south to Botswana and Namibia - and also west to Congo - as such it is one of Zambia's worst places for HIV and AIDS - those lorry drivers don't behave - and also prostitution is quite rife in the village.
Anyway this afternoon I stareted in earnest on the business plan for the school - and I have to claim frustration as all the salaries and staffing requirements changed with every bottle of Fanta that Donata placed on my account! There is a shortfall on the running of teh school that Donata intends to make up by keeping and selling Chickens - she can make about two pound fifty per chicken....however she seemed to determined to keep an infinite amount of chickens to meet the defecit - we did have words that I felt that 5000 chickens was excessive, unsellable and made her a chicken farmer not a headmistress. To prove my point I went into the market and analysed chicken sales (note chickens are sold live and slaughtered as necessary at the stall). Chicken sales were no where near Donata's hopes and we are to look at other income - cabbages were mooted as we packed up tonight - I am more thinking about Government subsidy! The bonus was there were avocado in the market
I did get to meet the deputy education minister today - I scored his mobile number from flirting with his secretary so phone \d it - he said he would see me immediately - I have never met a minister before so inadequately dressed - a sweaty fred perry and cargo shorts - raybans on my head - anyway he was great and we continue our discussions next week.
So Caterpillars - hard, deep fried and crunchy - and not filling.
Toss..? Well I got my clothes laundered yesterday - the maid at the Harvest Inn offered to do them - I do miss Fatimah (and her sweet store) - anyway I also had to buy soap powder - so I left her w\some Kwacha - she left me the unused soap powder, beautifiully called Toss - and on looking on the inbstructions it says if your floor is greasy use extra Toss!
Tomorrow we start the school self assessment process - and I have morning workshops with the kids and afternoon workshops with the staff - should be good
Anyway I must go - speak soon
R
This morning Donata wanted to visit the education department - so we went their and there was noone in so we waited - and waited - then gave up - then I was to meet the District Comissioner - he seemed pleased to see me - and had the first air con that I have come across - he also had a selection of flags on his desk - and bizarely a 5 foot high gold painted Maize plant. He also had gout - so I sympathised as a fellow sufferer and then offered him my miracle tablet - maybe he will fund the school.
I thin had the amazing news that out Aberdare and Ponty centres from work have raised 350 quid to sponsor a teacher - that's amazing - I have not told the school yet.
We then went to school and had a staff meeting so that I could update them on my progress - it was idyllic under the mango tree until the rains hit. There were no school lunches today as the cook was at a funeral - there are only 4 staff members at the school and 3 working days this week have been lost to different funerals - it's a sad reflection of this village. You see Mkushi is a staging post on the great north road - traffic passes here from Tanzania - heading south to Botswana and Namibia - and also west to Congo - as such it is one of Zambia's worst places for HIV and AIDS - those lorry drivers don't behave - and also prostitution is quite rife in the village.
Anyway this afternoon I stareted in earnest on the business plan for the school - and I have to claim frustration as all the salaries and staffing requirements changed with every bottle of Fanta that Donata placed on my account! There is a shortfall on the running of teh school that Donata intends to make up by keeping and selling Chickens - she can make about two pound fifty per chicken....however she seemed to determined to keep an infinite amount of chickens to meet the defecit - we did have words that I felt that 5000 chickens was excessive, unsellable and made her a chicken farmer not a headmistress. To prove my point I went into the market and analysed chicken sales (note chickens are sold live and slaughtered as necessary at the stall). Chicken sales were no where near Donata's hopes and we are to look at other income - cabbages were mooted as we packed up tonight - I am more thinking about Government subsidy! The bonus was there were avocado in the market
I did get to meet the deputy education minister today - I scored his mobile number from flirting with his secretary so phone \d it - he said he would see me immediately - I have never met a minister before so inadequately dressed - a sweaty fred perry and cargo shorts - raybans on my head - anyway he was great and we continue our discussions next week.
So Caterpillars - hard, deep fried and crunchy - and not filling.
Toss..? Well I got my clothes laundered yesterday - the maid at the Harvest Inn offered to do them - I do miss Fatimah (and her sweet store) - anyway I also had to buy soap powder - so I left her w\some Kwacha - she left me the unused soap powder, beautifiully called Toss - and on looking on the inbstructions it says if your floor is greasy use extra Toss!
Tomorrow we start the school self assessment process - and I have morning workshops with the kids and afternoon workshops with the staff - should be good
Anyway I must go - speak soon
R
Wednesday, 24 November 2010
Networking day...
Hi
Firstly thanks to all those who have emailed etc - its great to know people are reading this and I'm not just blogging into the darkness.
What a bizarre day - I was tired - the rains arrived last night big style - wham bam thunder and lightening on the roof of my hut! I think the whole village was on go slow this morning.
Anyway we went to hand in the application for funding for the school - a long process - off to the internet cafe to print it (the school has no printer - and then it transpired the internet cafe had no paper) - then to the photocopying stall in the market 0- and lastly to stationary shool to buy an envelope - Donata said this wasn't needed - but I insisted that we dont o a funding bid with no envelope.
Anyway we then went to the Council to hand it in - and madness took over - I was ferried from Office to Office meeting people talking to them about why I am here - I met teh head of teh Counclil, the HIV team, Planning, Social Welfare, Procurement, Education, District Comissioner and Health - meetings were stopped for my arrival!
I suggested to Donata that we needed more to say than 'hello' so we will eb returning next week with the business plan -(which I still have to write - guess that's the weekend). Then in teh street we bumped into teh local Chief - who gifted the land for the new school - so an invite to the Palace follows to present said business plan.
Moving on Donata was stopping all and sundry to introduce me - she then had to go to the bank to get her pension - its fourteen quid and took 90 minutes to withdraw - I took the opportunity for a nap under a tree in the bank's grounds.
This afternoon we went to the site of the new school - its in the poor area of the village - over the bridge where I am not allowed to go without being accompanied. Its on a plateau on teh top of a hill - its roasting hot with views to local grantite hills - and surrounded by mud and straw huts - it was in real Africa with Ox's ploughing the ground - and the people here really did have nothing. Donata told me this was also where she lived - I just gulped and carried on.
We walked back to the to0wn attracting local kids following the Mzungu - White Man - like the Pied Piper of Hamlyn - and then set a list of things to do - word seems to be getting out that there's a stranger in town. I am to meet the local MP on Monday, the Community Radio Station are makinga programme about me - I tried to hold out for a series - and it now looks as though I may be meetying teh Zambian education Minister for Education before I leave.
Other than that the vollage and school want me to return - with some Rathbone young people next year - go get teh cash for that Rossy!
And Bev re your note on sending things / helping - watch this space....
Anyway apologies for the bad typing - I am racing both the lighta nd teh rain (which will mean a power cut)
And - apparently its Caterpillars for tea - can't wait.........
Good news there was Watermelon in the Market - though Donata is outraged that I was ripped of because I paid 40p for it!
Take care all
Firstly thanks to all those who have emailed etc - its great to know people are reading this and I'm not just blogging into the darkness.
What a bizarre day - I was tired - the rains arrived last night big style - wham bam thunder and lightening on the roof of my hut! I think the whole village was on go slow this morning.
Anyway we went to hand in the application for funding for the school - a long process - off to the internet cafe to print it (the school has no printer - and then it transpired the internet cafe had no paper) - then to the photocopying stall in the market 0- and lastly to stationary shool to buy an envelope - Donata said this wasn't needed - but I insisted that we dont o a funding bid with no envelope.
Anyway we then went to the Council to hand it in - and madness took over - I was ferried from Office to Office meeting people talking to them about why I am here - I met teh head of teh Counclil, the HIV team, Planning, Social Welfare, Procurement, Education, District Comissioner and Health - meetings were stopped for my arrival!
I suggested to Donata that we needed more to say than 'hello' so we will eb returning next week with the business plan -(which I still have to write - guess that's the weekend). Then in teh street we bumped into teh local Chief - who gifted the land for the new school - so an invite to the Palace follows to present said business plan.
Moving on Donata was stopping all and sundry to introduce me - she then had to go to the bank to get her pension - its fourteen quid and took 90 minutes to withdraw - I took the opportunity for a nap under a tree in the bank's grounds.
This afternoon we went to the site of the new school - its in the poor area of the village - over the bridge where I am not allowed to go without being accompanied. Its on a plateau on teh top of a hill - its roasting hot with views to local grantite hills - and surrounded by mud and straw huts - it was in real Africa with Ox's ploughing the ground - and the people here really did have nothing. Donata told me this was also where she lived - I just gulped and carried on.
We walked back to the to0wn attracting local kids following the Mzungu - White Man - like the Pied Piper of Hamlyn - and then set a list of things to do - word seems to be getting out that there's a stranger in town. I am to meet the local MP on Monday, the Community Radio Station are makinga programme about me - I tried to hold out for a series - and it now looks as though I may be meetying teh Zambian education Minister for Education before I leave.
Other than that the vollage and school want me to return - with some Rathbone young people next year - go get teh cash for that Rossy!
And Bev re your note on sending things / helping - watch this space....
Anyway apologies for the bad typing - I am racing both the lighta nd teh rain (which will mean a power cut)
And - apparently its Caterpillars for tea - can't wait.........
Good news there was Watermelon in the Market - though Donata is outraged that I was ripped of because I paid 40p for it!
Take care all
Tuesday, 23 November 2010
The Value of a pound....
Last night I realised that the fan in my room didn't have a plug - so I went to reception and whilst debating with them the safety of placing the exposed wires direct int the wall socket I noticed that some rooms were 10,000 Kwacha more than mine -about one pound twenty - on enquiry these were superior rooms with a fridge - at which I practically squealed with excitement - my water is now cold at all times - and today I ahve bought 2 tupperware containers at the market so I could store food in the fridge.....I haven't as yet found any food to store - but am ready for when I do! What was humbling was the school staff coming to admire my fridge - I guess with the teachers paid 25 quid a month its well out of their league,
Anyway I sat last night with Donata and talked for hours - what is becoming obvious is that this is a powerful story of a lady's determination, strength, guts and grief.
I think I have said that Donata is 67 years old - she is disabled - and for a number of years she was a typist in the government. Aged 62, having lost two of her children, she decided that something needed to be done in this small town in Northern Zambia to support disable kids to independent living. There was nothing for these kids - and many were hidden by their parents for fear of stigma. Donata is an ordinary village person here, but she lobbied the white farmers on their estates locally and in partnership with the church she set up teh school.
The school now has 35 pupils; across grades 1-5 - and despite recieving no government funding recieves annual inspection. All the work is funded via one farming family - Mr and Mrs Hunt - who I am to meet later.
Anyway the Nuns now want their convent back - Donata has secured some land from the local Chief (whom I am to meet next week) - and is now setting about building a school. Donata's ambition is to build a school witha number of classrooms and boarding facilities. Boarding facilities will ensure better attendance (the young people, some with mobility issues walk miles) - and also allow pupils from a much wider area to attend. In addition she will commence education for the blind - there is already a unit here for the deaf - let's just put this in perspective this is a big dream when the school can't afford paper, and is saving at the moment to buy a ribbon for the typewriter.
Anyway the new schoool will support 200 pupils - Donata has funding for 50% of the Capital from a UK trust fund, the foundations are laid - and today I have applied to the Zambian government for 35 million Kwacha to build a further 2 classrooms. Foundations are laid - and this will happen - the village is also making it happen with the community helping to break and shift stones. Long term this will all be supported with teh development of a land based social enterprise / work based learning initiative.
Anyway I will fill you in more on that another time....today I went to the school for the first time -
Situated in a few small rooms in the back of the convent, surrounded by and smelling of chickens this was an amazing place. My first job was to present back exam papers to the younger kids who were doing maths - I'm guessing at about Entry 3 - 50% of the class got 100%. I then gave them the pens / pencils I bought over and they sang a 'Welcome Mr Newton' song that they wrote yesterday.
I then went into Donata's office to do the funding application that has to e in by the end of the week - Donata wanted me to have her desk - but I'm not having the headteachers desk - so have made a office in the Maize store - with frequent interuptions from the chickens.
I then went and had a Q and A session from the kids - it was fascinating - they were in awe of the fact that I had 2 parents both aged 69 - it was only on relection I realised that 80% of these kids are orphans - and the life expectancy here is 42 due to HIV and AIDS - I am an old man myself!
They were also fascinated by the cold in the UK - both pupils (via translation - sound and sign) - were astonished that we didn't die when the tempertaure dropped to zero - and the fact that I, notr most my friends go to church caused great interest.
Somehow I had to explain what a Cinema was - when the penny dropped as to the size of Cinema screens the kids sat opened mouthed....
Anyway I could go on - school finishes at lunchtime with an Ingera (maize) school meal - which I said to give my portion to the kids - and we played a game of football whilst this was cooked. My football skills are not great - Matt, Pubby, mr Longly you would have been proud - though one poor girl got a thudding great whack in her face from a ball I kicked - still she had full compensation from having one of the 'Big White Man's wet wipes' something she was clutching an hour later as she left school.
Anyway signing off now - more meetings about this new school...
R
Anyway I sat last night with Donata and talked for hours - what is becoming obvious is that this is a powerful story of a lady's determination, strength, guts and grief.
I think I have said that Donata is 67 years old - she is disabled - and for a number of years she was a typist in the government. Aged 62, having lost two of her children, she decided that something needed to be done in this small town in Northern Zambia to support disable kids to independent living. There was nothing for these kids - and many were hidden by their parents for fear of stigma. Donata is an ordinary village person here, but she lobbied the white farmers on their estates locally and in partnership with the church she set up teh school.
The school now has 35 pupils; across grades 1-5 - and despite recieving no government funding recieves annual inspection. All the work is funded via one farming family - Mr and Mrs Hunt - who I am to meet later.
Anyway the Nuns now want their convent back - Donata has secured some land from the local Chief (whom I am to meet next week) - and is now setting about building a school. Donata's ambition is to build a school witha number of classrooms and boarding facilities. Boarding facilities will ensure better attendance (the young people, some with mobility issues walk miles) - and also allow pupils from a much wider area to attend. In addition she will commence education for the blind - there is already a unit here for the deaf - let's just put this in perspective this is a big dream when the school can't afford paper, and is saving at the moment to buy a ribbon for the typewriter.
Anyway the new schoool will support 200 pupils - Donata has funding for 50% of the Capital from a UK trust fund, the foundations are laid - and today I have applied to the Zambian government for 35 million Kwacha to build a further 2 classrooms. Foundations are laid - and this will happen - the village is also making it happen with the community helping to break and shift stones. Long term this will all be supported with teh development of a land based social enterprise / work based learning initiative.
Anyway I will fill you in more on that another time....today I went to the school for the first time -
Situated in a few small rooms in the back of the convent, surrounded by and smelling of chickens this was an amazing place. My first job was to present back exam papers to the younger kids who were doing maths - I'm guessing at about Entry 3 - 50% of the class got 100%. I then gave them the pens / pencils I bought over and they sang a 'Welcome Mr Newton' song that they wrote yesterday.
I then went into Donata's office to do the funding application that has to e in by the end of the week - Donata wanted me to have her desk - but I'm not having the headteachers desk - so have made a office in the Maize store - with frequent interuptions from the chickens.
I then went and had a Q and A session from the kids - it was fascinating - they were in awe of the fact that I had 2 parents both aged 69 - it was only on relection I realised that 80% of these kids are orphans - and the life expectancy here is 42 due to HIV and AIDS - I am an old man myself!
They were also fascinated by the cold in the UK - both pupils (via translation - sound and sign) - were astonished that we didn't die when the tempertaure dropped to zero - and the fact that I, notr most my friends go to church caused great interest.
Somehow I had to explain what a Cinema was - when the penny dropped as to the size of Cinema screens the kids sat opened mouthed....
Anyway I could go on - school finishes at lunchtime with an Ingera (maize) school meal - which I said to give my portion to the kids - and we played a game of football whilst this was cooked. My football skills are not great - Matt, Pubby, mr Longly you would have been proud - though one poor girl got a thudding great whack in her face from a ball I kicked - still she had full compensation from having one of the 'Big White Man's wet wipes' something she was clutching an hour later as she left school.
Anyway signing off now - more meetings about this new school...
R
Monday, 22 November 2010
An Idiot Abroad!
When I was leaving the UK many people asked me if I watched 'An Idiot Abroad' - the answer is I have never seen it - but certainly felt I was living it earlier today on the PostBus.
My taxi failed to turn up - leaving me running to catch the Post Bus....anyhow I made it and joined the throngs outside it. My bag was passed over heads onto the bus as we waited to board - I have to confess to feeling a bit of an idiot as I stood there - the only white man in sight with a pair of Raybans on my head, a Fred Perry T-shirt and a laptop case. Other passengers had traditional dress, jerry cans, maize and their worldly pocessions. Anyway we boarded the bus in a scrum that Easy Jet would have been proud of and then more goods were loaded onto the bus - the aisle was waist deep in maize seed and post - and looking behind me i realised that any sudden braking would have left be submerged in an avalanche of post and maize. We departed and the driver it turned our was a relative of Michael.......Michael Schumaker.
Anyway as we started to approach Mkushi - my map reading skills helped me define we were there - I started to get nervous - I'm not sure if it was about the impending task - or the prospect of the assualt course to leave the bus with three bags!
Donata as promised was at the post office - dressed in her finest. We arrived at 11am - she had been there since 8am in case the bus was early - she told me that you don't leave a friend waiting. We caught the one taxi in town to the Harvest Inn - which is to be my residence for the next 25 days - the jury's out but there's no real alternative - the electricity and toilet work - I guess I am being fussing thinking that I would like a pillow - or a wardrobe. Anyway the Harvest Inn has a cocktail bar - and they were in there at 11am - maybe it is the equivalent of Wetherspoons in this town.
Donata is an amazing woman and in the next 2 hours humbled me totally - she told me her life story - one of a lot of loss like so many out here - but she is fighting to keep and grow this school which I have yet to see. She is 67 but is like a 30 year old. She has already set me my tasks! - but she cried and prayed to God when I gave her the lovespoon and also when she saw that I had a computer with me.
Her main goal is to secure 50million Kwacha to build and sustain the school's future - including staff salaries and the development of a residential wing - these disabled kids are walking 10 miles a day to school - 50 million Kwacha sounds a lot - in reality it's 7 thousand quid.
Donata left - she wants to make sure that the school is ready for my arrival tomorrow! I don't want to be treated like i'm on ceremony. I have explored the town - I guess in reality I was hoping that the other accomodation the Mkushi Motel would be a 5 star lodge and I could transfer - in reality it is 0.05 star! What can I say about Mkushi; it's really friendly, the shops have virtually nothing in them, the market does a vast range of tomatoes, mangoes and grubs; the smell from the butchers was almost too much to walk past - and I'd kill for a packet of crisps.
I have to go now - Donata is returning with the teachers at 4pm to go through my tasks - for those of you who are interested they are -
1. Create a fundraising plan
2. Reform their adminstrative processes
3. Create a self assessment report and quality development plan
4. Link them to other similar organisations around the world
An Idiot Abroad? - the Jury's out!
R
My taxi failed to turn up - leaving me running to catch the Post Bus....anyhow I made it and joined the throngs outside it. My bag was passed over heads onto the bus as we waited to board - I have to confess to feeling a bit of an idiot as I stood there - the only white man in sight with a pair of Raybans on my head, a Fred Perry T-shirt and a laptop case. Other passengers had traditional dress, jerry cans, maize and their worldly pocessions. Anyway we boarded the bus in a scrum that Easy Jet would have been proud of and then more goods were loaded onto the bus - the aisle was waist deep in maize seed and post - and looking behind me i realised that any sudden braking would have left be submerged in an avalanche of post and maize. We departed and the driver it turned our was a relative of Michael.......Michael Schumaker.
Anyway as we started to approach Mkushi - my map reading skills helped me define we were there - I started to get nervous - I'm not sure if it was about the impending task - or the prospect of the assualt course to leave the bus with three bags!
Donata as promised was at the post office - dressed in her finest. We arrived at 11am - she had been there since 8am in case the bus was early - she told me that you don't leave a friend waiting. We caught the one taxi in town to the Harvest Inn - which is to be my residence for the next 25 days - the jury's out but there's no real alternative - the electricity and toilet work - I guess I am being fussing thinking that I would like a pillow - or a wardrobe. Anyway the Harvest Inn has a cocktail bar - and they were in there at 11am - maybe it is the equivalent of Wetherspoons in this town.
Donata is an amazing woman and in the next 2 hours humbled me totally - she told me her life story - one of a lot of loss like so many out here - but she is fighting to keep and grow this school which I have yet to see. She is 67 but is like a 30 year old. She has already set me my tasks! - but she cried and prayed to God when I gave her the lovespoon and also when she saw that I had a computer with me.
Her main goal is to secure 50million Kwacha to build and sustain the school's future - including staff salaries and the development of a residential wing - these disabled kids are walking 10 miles a day to school - 50 million Kwacha sounds a lot - in reality it's 7 thousand quid.
Donata left - she wants to make sure that the school is ready for my arrival tomorrow! I don't want to be treated like i'm on ceremony. I have explored the town - I guess in reality I was hoping that the other accomodation the Mkushi Motel would be a 5 star lodge and I could transfer - in reality it is 0.05 star! What can I say about Mkushi; it's really friendly, the shops have virtually nothing in them, the market does a vast range of tomatoes, mangoes and grubs; the smell from the butchers was almost too much to walk past - and I'd kill for a packet of crisps.
I have to go now - Donata is returning with the teachers at 4pm to go through my tasks - for those of you who are interested they are -
1. Create a fundraising plan
2. Reform their adminstrative processes
3. Create a self assessment report and quality development plan
4. Link them to other similar organisations around the world
An Idiot Abroad? - the Jury's out!
R
Sunday, 21 November 2010
A fan to blow Grace Jones' clothes off!
After blogging last night I returned to the hotel in a taxi passing 2 car crashed in about 4 minutes - my driver was at odds to tell me how many bad drivers there were in Zambia - taking several red lights as he did so!
Anyway bit of a chill day today - did some shopping for the bits I've decided I needed - and got some cash from the ATM - ironically turning round to see the guy from the plane 'there are no ATM's in this town' in the queue behind me - I just smiled and said 'found one' - but it's made me chuckle all day!
Went to the market with a feast of sounds and smells; and they seemed determined to sell me an axe, sledgehammer or machete - I escaped with nothing and then managed to smuggle myself into the local 5 start hotel for an afternoon by the pool - all went to plan until a huge electrical storm meant that outdoor activities were off!
Just for Nicola the animal count stands at Lizards - lots, Rats -2 (but big enough to be re-classified as 4)!
Anyway tomorrow the job starts so to speak - feel a bit like the new boy - I still know very little. A few of you have asked if I am nervous - not really - but I am just hoping that I will live up to the school's expectation's and be able to do the task that has been set - whatever that may be!
Otherwise all good - hoping to get some decent sleep tonight - it was very hot in my room. I do have a fan in there - and it's very string - in fact I was reminded of year's ago when working with Grace Jones and her rider requestd a fan strong enough to blow her clothes off - well this is it! However for sleeping is feels like being in the sound and slip steam of an Airbus 360....
Oh I did speak to Donata from the school today - she will meet be in Mkushi tomorrow outside the post office....she seems very nice on the phone - all I know about her is she will be wearing a suit - and she missed my first call today as she was in Church.......so far the common ground is limiting!
Well speak soon and tell you about my new home for the next 4 weeks - once I find it
Rich
Anyway bit of a chill day today - did some shopping for the bits I've decided I needed - and got some cash from the ATM - ironically turning round to see the guy from the plane 'there are no ATM's in this town' in the queue behind me - I just smiled and said 'found one' - but it's made me chuckle all day!
Went to the market with a feast of sounds and smells; and they seemed determined to sell me an axe, sledgehammer or machete - I escaped with nothing and then managed to smuggle myself into the local 5 start hotel for an afternoon by the pool - all went to plan until a huge electrical storm meant that outdoor activities were off!
Just for Nicola the animal count stands at Lizards - lots, Rats -2 (but big enough to be re-classified as 4)!
Anyway tomorrow the job starts so to speak - feel a bit like the new boy - I still know very little. A few of you have asked if I am nervous - not really - but I am just hoping that I will live up to the school's expectation's and be able to do the task that has been set - whatever that may be!
Otherwise all good - hoping to get some decent sleep tonight - it was very hot in my room. I do have a fan in there - and it's very string - in fact I was reminded of year's ago when working with Grace Jones and her rider requestd a fan strong enough to blow her clothes off - well this is it! However for sleeping is feels like being in the sound and slip steam of an Airbus 360....
Oh I did speak to Donata from the school today - she will meet be in Mkushi tomorrow outside the post office....she seems very nice on the phone - all I know about her is she will be wearing a suit - and she missed my first call today as she was in Church.......so far the common ground is limiting!
Well speak soon and tell you about my new home for the next 4 weeks - once I find it
Rich
Saturday, 20 November 2010
Well I'm here....
Greetings from Lusaka -
The flight was fairly good apart from a dodgy and near aborted landing as the rain suddenly hit and a fellow passenger. As I sat with that pint - and some prawns in T5 I praised myself at being able to get a bulkhead seat and the prospect of stretching out on the eleven hours ahead. We boarded - I made myself comfortable - them my dreams were shattered as lumbering towards me - complete with cowboy hat - and the words 'howdy seat mate' appeared a 7ft high by 7 ft wide American. After a range of inflicted conversation about how he was a frequent traveller and knew there were no ATM's in Zambia ( there so are - and there were 5 years ago when I was last here); and how he was convinced that we would be subject to 'internal cavity examination' to enter the country I decided to absorb myself in the in-flight entertainment (Glee) and then fell asleep. See Parker it's not just with you I watch Glee and fall asleep! Anyway it worked and I awoke as we were descending in the rain to land.
I was to be met by Peter at the airport - I thought he would be holding a board saying something like ' Newt' or 'Dickie' - there was no board; in fact after circling the arrivals hall several times I concluded there was no Peter.....and no answer on his mobile....but just as I was debating next moves in turned up in his truck and off we shot into the city.
I am staying here for 2 nights - at somewhere called Marble Inn - there is no marble though - or hot water but its clean and close to the city centre.
I met Peter again this afternoon over a beer for my 'In Country Induction' - it was very short and I think was his excuse to get to a bar to watch Spurs versus Arsenal - as though of you who know me well will imagine - I failed at being a great footy watching buddy.
Anyway I do have a Zambian mobile if you want to use it - from the UK 0026 974899978 and I know a few more things about my task....
I go to Mkushi at 6am on Monday - the bus is so luxury it also will be carrying the post and I am to catch it at the central post office. Donata from Donata school will meet me in Mkushi when the bus arrives - anytime between 9am and midday (maybe it depends on deliveries?) - and then I start to help Donata to grow her school.
Mkushi has 3,000 people - not like Lusaka's 1 Million then - but apparently there's an expat farming community - who are 'quite lively'
That's all I know - oh and the school will give me lunch everyday - I must be grateful for that I know - but I wasn't good with British School dinners....
Speak soon -
The flight was fairly good apart from a dodgy and near aborted landing as the rain suddenly hit and a fellow passenger. As I sat with that pint - and some prawns in T5 I praised myself at being able to get a bulkhead seat and the prospect of stretching out on the eleven hours ahead. We boarded - I made myself comfortable - them my dreams were shattered as lumbering towards me - complete with cowboy hat - and the words 'howdy seat mate' appeared a 7ft high by 7 ft wide American. After a range of inflicted conversation about how he was a frequent traveller and knew there were no ATM's in Zambia ( there so are - and there were 5 years ago when I was last here); and how he was convinced that we would be subject to 'internal cavity examination' to enter the country I decided to absorb myself in the in-flight entertainment (Glee) and then fell asleep. See Parker it's not just with you I watch Glee and fall asleep! Anyway it worked and I awoke as we were descending in the rain to land.
I was to be met by Peter at the airport - I thought he would be holding a board saying something like ' Newt' or 'Dickie' - there was no board; in fact after circling the arrivals hall several times I concluded there was no Peter.....and no answer on his mobile....but just as I was debating next moves in turned up in his truck and off we shot into the city.
I am staying here for 2 nights - at somewhere called Marble Inn - there is no marble though - or hot water but its clean and close to the city centre.
I met Peter again this afternoon over a beer for my 'In Country Induction' - it was very short and I think was his excuse to get to a bar to watch Spurs versus Arsenal - as though of you who know me well will imagine - I failed at being a great footy watching buddy.
Anyway I do have a Zambian mobile if you want to use it - from the UK 0026 974899978 and I know a few more things about my task....
I go to Mkushi at 6am on Monday - the bus is so luxury it also will be carrying the post and I am to catch it at the central post office. Donata from Donata school will meet me in Mkushi when the bus arrives - anytime between 9am and midday (maybe it depends on deliveries?) - and then I start to help Donata to grow her school.
Mkushi has 3,000 people - not like Lusaka's 1 Million then - but apparently there's an expat farming community - who are 'quite lively'
That's all I know - oh and the school will give me lunch everyday - I must be grateful for that I know - but I wasn't good with British School dinners....
Speak soon -
Thursday, 18 November 2010
Departure day minus one!
Well it looks like it's finally happening......
Having had lots of jabs, got my visa, I ought to think about packing.
I leave tomorrow - and know very little other than I arrive in Lusaka on Saturday morning where I will be met by Peter, who is the in-country rep for the scheme. After 2 days in Lusaka I am off to Mkushi of which I know very little - even Wikipedia tells me not much more other than it exists.
Peter has also added that he has bought me a bus ticket for my transfer to Mkushi.....I know those Africa busses....so Monday is going to be hot and dusty - and very different to a day in Pontypridd.
I am excited about going - those of you who know me well will know that I have had a manic few weeks so I have to be honest it's only now that I am really thinking on the challenge ahead - and am looking forward to actually starting the journey - think of me at 5pm tomorrow with a pint in Terminal 5!
Anyway I must go pack - I seem to have got carried away with things for the school from Welsh Rugby Balls to Flags and Lovespoons......along with a load of pencils and pens....best make some room for some clothes
Speak soon -
Richrd
Having had lots of jabs, got my visa, I ought to think about packing.
I leave tomorrow - and know very little other than I arrive in Lusaka on Saturday morning where I will be met by Peter, who is the in-country rep for the scheme. After 2 days in Lusaka I am off to Mkushi of which I know very little - even Wikipedia tells me not much more other than it exists.
Peter has also added that he has bought me a bus ticket for my transfer to Mkushi.....I know those Africa busses....so Monday is going to be hot and dusty - and very different to a day in Pontypridd.
I am excited about going - those of you who know me well will know that I have had a manic few weeks so I have to be honest it's only now that I am really thinking on the challenge ahead - and am looking forward to actually starting the journey - think of me at 5pm tomorrow with a pint in Terminal 5!
Anyway I must go pack - I seem to have got carried away with things for the school from Welsh Rugby Balls to Flags and Lovespoons......along with a load of pencils and pens....best make some room for some clothes
Speak soon -
Richrd
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