April 7, 2011
After the last time I wrote I have to send a message of hope and optimism. Today it was a great day. The in-laws of the woman who is staying here after her husband threw her out, didn’t show up. They have been coming to our workplace almost daily to convince her to go back ( he has a young second wife and new babe). She has been standing strong with me standing along side her ( I am ready to tell this family I am part of a human rights delegation that is looking into the abuse of women by husbands, particularly polygamous husbands).
Then I went to the post office after we finally located the mail box key, and I had cards and 2 parcels ( filled with chocolate and dental floss). Thanks sistas!!! Then Veronica got a bottle of wine from a grateful client. And then, the phone guy that I see a lot tells me he has reduced my rate to 25 francs a minute instead of 50. That is about 6 cents a minute. Can’t beat that. I think he feels bad that the phone doesn’t work half the time. Then a friend emails that she wants to donate a bit of money for our mushroom farm business- that just about sent Veronica into spasms, she was so excited.
Oh, I forgot the Emmentaler cheese I found on the weekend and had this morning in crepes. How much better can life get than cheese to start the day.
So, I am reminding myself to be grateful for small things. Indeed I am looking for them every day. The spring is very beautiful and mornings have the low mist that we have at home. Everyone is farming from the smallest child to the elders. All by hand…
My work has been busier which really helps me have a even perspective on life. We have been working on a gender based violence project proposal and looking for funding from a few big funders. I am writing and researching- Ntankah was waiting on me coming to go forward with this because of my experience- they are hoping I will be able to be here for the set up of the program. We are looking at awareness, rights workshops, working with local politicians, shelter, support and vocational training. I want to have Cowichan Women Against Violence Society as a partner to us. That would be so cool!
I have also been trying to work with staff on support. The counsellors/field people, are traumatized when they return from seeing the most marginalized and sick people in the villages around Bamenda. They interview people with AIDS or HIV and give them information, awareness, nutrition and health advise and try to help with connecting them to hospitals and our clinic. At times , they get triggered by what they see, the poverty of the people, and how many are abandoned by their families ( still many superstitions about HIV).
We are harvesting our first mushroom from our new business ( I have enclosed me getting my certificate). We just planted our second crop and are selling this one. We are saving money for a dehydrator to do mushrooms and perhaps mangos ( the season is just around the corner).
So I am busier and embracing that. The volunteers in the HIV agencies are plotting as well with VSO to change some of the ways we work- on e way being doing more collaborative work with our partners so we aren’t all replicating the same work. That will be great.
Other than this I have met a wonderful women who works here , a real job, in a Victims of Torture agency. She is training staff. Nice to know the different options for people like me!
On that note I am starting some coaching with a very bright women who did this for big bucks at home ( a Royal Roads graduate actually). She is putting me through my paces- I hope to come up with a plan for my life at the end of the process. Wish me luck!!!
And then there are the good books volunteers are sharing around. I have just read The Help and Amy Tan's saving Fish from Drowning. Both great. I have also watched a few good movies thanks to Rick and volunteers who are sharing those two.
To all of you, I appreciate so much your support and words of encouragement over my time here. It is so great and I will call on you when or if I am flagging.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
March 21, 2011
I am pleased to announce that I am now a certified mushroom farmer! I have earned my certification after participating in a three day workshop. The time was spent learning about all the advantages of mushrooms ( I never knew they were so healthy), mixing various substrates and supplements and bagging dozens of starters. My favorite substrate is plaintain leaves but they only last three weeks before there is no nutrition left. Corn husks ground up and mixed with other stuff lasts three months and the big winner is sawdust mixed with ground corn ( we happen to have a corn grinding machine as one of our projects).
Women came from all over the region to attend this workshop. This is a small business that can be done with little space and stress. Our organization is always looking for income generating activities that women who are infected with HIV can do. Many of them are overworked and stressed- which of course makes the HIV symptoms worse. We have enough starter bags now to harvest a good crop of
mushroom s soon. I will be the first customer!
I was also successful at accessing a small grant through VSO to pay for this project. VSO has capacity building and empowering beneficiaries ( people living with HIV/AIDS) as a part of their objectives so anything that fits under those criteria is considered. They are interested in reducing stigma and promoting the involvement of beneficiaries in programming and planning. Our organization meets all these objectives and some so VSO is quite pleased to be partnering with them
Regarding my social life........Spent two nights in Babungo with my friend who lives in the place that most people would pay big bucks to vacation at. (there is great potential for tourism in this region because of the hiking and scenery but the infrastructure is so poor that most tourists couldn't take it). We packed in two 3 hour hikes, a visit to the tea plantation and a ceremonial dance at the local Fon's palace.
The tea plantation is owned by one of the richest men in Cameroon. He owns 3000 hectares of hilly land covered in tea. It is one of the most beautiful landscapes I've ever seen. We toured the place from the nursery to the mature plants. Saw the production from drying, steaming, mincing, bagging and packaging. Then we toured his grounds. He has his own mosque, a peacock acreage, horses, ostriches and a prize winning major bull. He also has 2000 people working for him that live in slums on the property....... The trip was 10 kms. Up a BAD road on motorcycles. We had to walk up a few hills because they were too steep. Why I am not loosing weight is a mystery!
We were fortunate to attend the start of the planting season celebration. It was the first dance complete with naked chested dancers ( all male), the Fon in masks and robes, men with leopard skins, pots an d branches on their heads, and other witch doctor types who pointed spears at you until you threw them some money. I did because I want my luck to hold here!! the volunteer who has been here on and off for 8 years was dressed in ceremonial dress because she has been appointed the Fon's honorary mother. She got us into this shin dig as well as the tea plantation ( it was closed but they opened it for us).
Saturday evening we had a bonfire and some of the staff at the clinic made dinner for us all. Kids, staff and volunteers. I made my first banana cake in my oven ( pot with sand) which was a success with the volunteers. We sang a little, the Cameroonians drummed and sang and I went to bed to the beat of drums and kids dancing.It was the biggest full moon in 20 years apparently- it's neat to know we are all under the same one.
Other than this, I facilitated my first workshop with another volunteer and two colleagues. It went over well- people here like role plays ( can you believe it!) even in front of the whole crowd. They also love clapping for achievements which we did many times through the workshop. I felt proud that we started and finished on time!
Work is starting to pick up a little which is great. I am writing reports, updating VSO and working with some staff on skills and Pidgin lessons.
Spring is coming, seeds are getting organized and the wild flowers are beginning to poke out in the mountains.
Hello to all until next time.
I am pleased to announce that I am now a certified mushroom farmer! I have earned my certification after participating in a three day workshop. The time was spent learning about all the advantages of mushrooms ( I never knew they were so healthy), mixing various substrates and supplements and bagging dozens of starters. My favorite substrate is plaintain leaves but they only last three weeks before there is no nutrition left. Corn husks ground up and mixed with other stuff lasts three months and the big winner is sawdust mixed with ground corn ( we happen to have a corn grinding machine as one of our projects).
Women came from all over the region to attend this workshop. This is a small business that can be done with little space and stress. Our organization is always looking for income generating activities that women who are infected with HIV can do. Many of them are overworked and stressed- which of course makes the HIV symptoms worse. We have enough starter bags now to harvest a good crop of
mushroom s soon. I will be the first customer!
I was also successful at accessing a small grant through VSO to pay for this project. VSO has capacity building and empowering beneficiaries ( people living with HIV/AIDS) as a part of their objectives so anything that fits under those criteria is considered. They are interested in reducing stigma and promoting the involvement of beneficiaries in programming and planning. Our organization meets all these objectives and some so VSO is quite pleased to be partnering with them
Regarding my social life........Spent two nights in Babungo with my friend who lives in the place that most people would pay big bucks to vacation at. (there is great potential for tourism in this region because of the hiking and scenery but the infrastructure is so poor that most tourists couldn't take it). We packed in two 3 hour hikes, a visit to the tea plantation and a ceremonial dance at the local Fon's palace.
The tea plantation is owned by one of the richest men in Cameroon. He owns 3000 hectares of hilly land covered in tea. It is one of the most beautiful landscapes I've ever seen. We toured the place from the nursery to the mature plants. Saw the production from drying, steaming, mincing, bagging and packaging. Then we toured his grounds. He has his own mosque, a peacock acreage, horses, ostriches and a prize winning major bull. He also has 2000 people working for him that live in slums on the property....... The trip was 10 kms. Up a BAD road on motorcycles. We had to walk up a few hills because they were too steep. Why I am not loosing weight is a mystery!
We were fortunate to attend the start of the planting season celebration. It was the first dance complete with naked chested dancers ( all male), the Fon in masks and robes, men with leopard skins, pots an d branches on their heads, and other witch doctor types who pointed spears at you until you threw them some money. I did because I want my luck to hold here!! the volunteer who has been here on and off for 8 years was dressed in ceremonial dress because she has been appointed the Fon's honorary mother. She got us into this shin dig as well as the tea plantation ( it was closed but they opened it for us).
Saturday evening we had a bonfire and some of the staff at the clinic made dinner for us all. Kids, staff and volunteers. I made my first banana cake in my oven ( pot with sand) which was a success with the volunteers. We sang a little, the Cameroonians drummed and sang and I went to bed to the beat of drums and kids dancing.It was the biggest full moon in 20 years apparently- it's neat to know we are all under the same one.
Other than this, I facilitated my first workshop with another volunteer and two colleagues. It went over well- people here like role plays ( can you believe it!) even in front of the whole crowd. They also love clapping for achievements which we did many times through the workshop. I felt proud that we started and finished on time!
Work is starting to pick up a little which is great. I am writing reports, updating VSO and working with some staff on skills and Pidgin lessons.
Spring is coming, seeds are getting organized and the wild flowers are beginning to poke out in the mountains.
Hello to all until next time.
Monday, March 21, 2011
March 12, 2011
March 12, 2011
Happy International Women’s day to all of you! This place knows how to throw a celebration.
There were over 800 women’s groups marching in the northwest region that I am in. All of them had matching uniforms ( in our case cabas in green and yellow), head scarves, and signs , some inspiring, some just with the organizations/groups name. We met down on the main street and marched past the bandstand where the local and area dignitaries sat ( including the governor and local fons). There was a lot of clapping and picture taking.
We then cabbed back to Ntankah’s offices where we had put up canopies and set out chairs. Women had cooked last night for a crowd and beer and sodas were brought in. Grassroots women from the area ( sister organizations) arrived with a large bus and the party got started.
Speeches ( I was elected to do one), a great lunch, a fashion show, several songs from us as hosts and impromptu songs galore. A large youth contingent led us in many dances and got us old people really grooving. We then had a dance contest of traditional dances which was a blast, and we had names of men and women called out ( we had to find each other and dance). I got the quarter head of our division! A thoroughly enjoyable the day. The music and beer flowed.
What’s happened to us at home? The young people here that are aware, educated and involved want a better future for men and women, gender equality and no more HIV. The are real pioneers spreading the word against lots of opposition. They are involved in water issues, land issues, women’s rights. It is inspiring and let’s me know how far we have come in my generation. I forget some of the struggles from the past.
For my hiking buddies, last weekend I was able to hike again in one of the most beautiful spots I have seen so far. Three cabs and one motorcycle ride later we were in a valley surrounded by mountains. The valley has rich, black soil and farmers there grow tomatos, corn and tons of rice. My two buddies look out on the rice fields- it is the kind of view most of us would pay big bucks to sit in front of. PS. They happen to have water and Sykpe access as well. I may be a frequent visitor! This is where we are having the March birthday weekend.
There are two volunteers there working in one of the few mental health treatment programs in our region. It is much like a l’Arche community with patients ( called students) live with staff and caregivers. They work in small industries and have a combination of traditional and modern therapies ( including herbal and modern medicines and traditional healing practices. It is an inspiring community and a beautiful place.
Well, now it is the 12th and my internet is still not working.....I join the millions who say 'arghhhh, Cameroon!”. when my internet cooperates I will send this off.
Thursday was clean up day for the region- I forgot, was in Bamenda town and walked 2 hours back to work. No cabs run and any motorcycles caught by the police are in trouble. I am considering it a workout!!! Everyone is supposed to clean the front and surroundings of their homes and businesses. Then a mass burning happens of everything....yes, all the toxic substances we get to breathe.
Here it is Saturday and still trying internet. It may be spring before you get this entry. Saturday routine- get water, walk 20 minutes for a taxi to go to the market. First an hour in the bank as I shuffle from the guard, to the first suited man, to the next suited man to stamp my withdrawl slip, then into the 'vault'. I'm out. Groceries at one store, fabric in the main market, meat at the meat side of the market, vegies and fruits at the other side. Dodge taxis, go to the one bakery tha has baguettes and I trudge to the taxi area laden with knapsack and bags. Return trip home , walk 20 minutes. Unpack, wash clothes by hand, scrub my floors, eat lunch and drop with heat exhaustion in front of my computer. You wonder why I'd rather be trekking!!!!!
Next weekend is March birthday celebration weekend. Long trek, bonfire, tea plantation visit ( I hope). Stayed tuned for my mushroom growing workshop Monday and Tuesday and I workshop I am doing with 2 colleagues plus a volunteer on Wednesday and Thursday. This week I will earn my keep!!!
Love to you all.
Cornelia
Happy International Women’s day to all of you! This place knows how to throw a celebration.
There were over 800 women’s groups marching in the northwest region that I am in. All of them had matching uniforms ( in our case cabas in green and yellow), head scarves, and signs , some inspiring, some just with the organizations/groups name. We met down on the main street and marched past the bandstand where the local and area dignitaries sat ( including the governor and local fons). There was a lot of clapping and picture taking.
We then cabbed back to Ntankah’s offices where we had put up canopies and set out chairs. Women had cooked last night for a crowd and beer and sodas were brought in. Grassroots women from the area ( sister organizations) arrived with a large bus and the party got started.
Speeches ( I was elected to do one), a great lunch, a fashion show, several songs from us as hosts and impromptu songs galore. A large youth contingent led us in many dances and got us old people really grooving. We then had a dance contest of traditional dances which was a blast, and we had names of men and women called out ( we had to find each other and dance). I got the quarter head of our division! A thoroughly enjoyable the day. The music and beer flowed.
What’s happened to us at home? The young people here that are aware, educated and involved want a better future for men and women, gender equality and no more HIV. The are real pioneers spreading the word against lots of opposition. They are involved in water issues, land issues, women’s rights. It is inspiring and let’s me know how far we have come in my generation. I forget some of the struggles from the past.
For my hiking buddies, last weekend I was able to hike again in one of the most beautiful spots I have seen so far. Three cabs and one motorcycle ride later we were in a valley surrounded by mountains. The valley has rich, black soil and farmers there grow tomatos, corn and tons of rice. My two buddies look out on the rice fields- it is the kind of view most of us would pay big bucks to sit in front of. PS. They happen to have water and Sykpe access as well. I may be a frequent visitor! This is where we are having the March birthday weekend.
There are two volunteers there working in one of the few mental health treatment programs in our region. It is much like a l’Arche community with patients ( called students) live with staff and caregivers. They work in small industries and have a combination of traditional and modern therapies ( including herbal and modern medicines and traditional healing practices. It is an inspiring community and a beautiful place.
Well, now it is the 12th and my internet is still not working.....I join the millions who say 'arghhhh, Cameroon!”. when my internet cooperates I will send this off.
Thursday was clean up day for the region- I forgot, was in Bamenda town and walked 2 hours back to work. No cabs run and any motorcycles caught by the police are in trouble. I am considering it a workout!!! Everyone is supposed to clean the front and surroundings of their homes and businesses. Then a mass burning happens of everything....yes, all the toxic substances we get to breathe.
Here it is Saturday and still trying internet. It may be spring before you get this entry. Saturday routine- get water, walk 20 minutes for a taxi to go to the market. First an hour in the bank as I shuffle from the guard, to the first suited man, to the next suited man to stamp my withdrawl slip, then into the 'vault'. I'm out. Groceries at one store, fabric in the main market, meat at the meat side of the market, vegies and fruits at the other side. Dodge taxis, go to the one bakery tha has baguettes and I trudge to the taxi area laden with knapsack and bags. Return trip home , walk 20 minutes. Unpack, wash clothes by hand, scrub my floors, eat lunch and drop with heat exhaustion in front of my computer. You wonder why I'd rather be trekking!!!!!
Next weekend is March birthday celebration weekend. Long trek, bonfire, tea plantation visit ( I hope). Stayed tuned for my mushroom growing workshop Monday and Tuesday and I workshop I am doing with 2 colleagues plus a volunteer on Wednesday and Thursday. This week I will earn my keep!!!
Love to you all.
Cornelia
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
The last few weeks and Cornelia goes on a mini holiday
March 1, 2011
It has been a few weeks and they have been busy. The seasons are changing slowly with a little more rain falling, lots of burning of green foliage as people get ready to plant in mid-March. The northwest region is under haze most of the time now and our mountains are invisible.
A note about planting here-there is no mechanized equipment or animals used here for farming. The majority of farms are small holdings and 80% of the work is done by the women. They are armed with a shovel that is sharpened and has a curved handle. It scoops and chops. They often babies strapped on their backs or children are left with older siblings while moms work.
Our team with me tagging along, offered a mobile HIV screening clinic and lecture. This was the first time for me to see my colleagues in action. We arrived with a lab tech, our nurse, grandma, two counsellors ( that do pre and post test counseling) and a variety of helpers. We lectured to an audience of mostly women on family planning, male and female condom use, all sorts of questions about sex and how condoms might affect sex, etc. It was very rousing, interactive and engaging. Even though there are all sorts of taboos here, talking about sex doesn’t seem to be one of them!
I also spent a day at a workshop with 5 organizations that were being evaluated by VSO. I got to help facilitate a small group of women who were clients of the organizations on how they felt about their experiences. It was very touching actually to hear first hand how volunteers like me and agencies like CUSO-VSO do help people who need it most.
70 volunteers got together in the capitol Yaounde for 4 days of monitoring and evaluation review. Rousing discussions, debates, arguments and a good dose of French English confusion rounded out the week. I ate well including pizza ( I craved cheese), Indian ( one Indian restaurant), pizza again and Chinese. I then hit a large supermarket and bought cheese, chorizo, granola, soy sauce, rice wraps- treats to bring back and hoard. It was grand except for the almost pick pocket disaster- I fortunately was wearing my caba ( my large big mama dress), which has so many folds he couldn’t get his hand in my pocket. I elbowed him and got into my taxi. A wicked man as they would say here.
I took the opportunity to take a few days and went for the weekend to Kribi, a beautiful seaside resort a 4 hour bus ride away. 4 volunteers from Quebec are there working in a model forestry program. So, I stayed in a hotel and swam, ate prawns and enjoyed a wonderful day. ( I will omit details of worms on walls that fall on people in the middle of the night. The geckos at least catch mosquitos!) We visited a pygmy village, had a pirogue ride down a river and relaxed. Not to belabour transportation problems but the 4 hours was in a bus with 10 rows, seats for 3.5 people and 5 people were squashed together. I discovered that men are better seat mates because they actually move a little to give you space ( women don’t) and they don’t have big hips ( women do). Imagine the three seats in an airplane filled with 3 reasonably sized people. Then add a large women with large bags of groceries that wedges herself in to the seat. My legs were numb by the end of the journey. PS Anyone getting out before the end had to climb out through the windows of the bus.
Anyway, enough of the planes, trains and automobile stories. In all seriousness, tourism will never take hold here as long as the roads and transportation structures are so poor.
I’m back with a big welcome from my ’family’ and gang at work. I was missed and missed them too. I was happy to be out of the city.
This week we are preparing for International Womens Day next Tuesday. It is a huge event here and one that I’m sure will remind me of years in the past. There are about 800 women’s groups marching down our main street ( the same street the kids marched mid-February). We will all have a uniform, the same dresses, that one of our staff is sewing as I write this. We will dance, eat, play soccer, etc. These people can teach me how to have fun! When is the last time we did any serious marching? And as for drumming and dancing….
I am going to be offering a 2 day workshop with another volunteer and a few of Ntankah’s staff in the next few weeks. I am excited and nervous about that. It will be on HIV/Aids and counseling skills for community volunteers and home based care givers. Another volunteer, our IT guy, is going to offer a day on Excel and one on Word, plus set up a website. So between these things and some reports to send in to VSO on the organization, March should be a little busier.
Well the bats are busy mating and our goats are having babies. Spring is coming!! For all of my dear friends and family as well it will be soon!. Take care all and happy International Women’s day!
It has been a few weeks and they have been busy. The seasons are changing slowly with a little more rain falling, lots of burning of green foliage as people get ready to plant in mid-March. The northwest region is under haze most of the time now and our mountains are invisible.
A note about planting here-there is no mechanized equipment or animals used here for farming. The majority of farms are small holdings and 80% of the work is done by the women. They are armed with a shovel that is sharpened and has a curved handle. It scoops and chops. They often babies strapped on their backs or children are left with older siblings while moms work.
Our team with me tagging along, offered a mobile HIV screening clinic and lecture. This was the first time for me to see my colleagues in action. We arrived with a lab tech, our nurse, grandma, two counsellors ( that do pre and post test counseling) and a variety of helpers. We lectured to an audience of mostly women on family planning, male and female condom use, all sorts of questions about sex and how condoms might affect sex, etc. It was very rousing, interactive and engaging. Even though there are all sorts of taboos here, talking about sex doesn’t seem to be one of them!
I also spent a day at a workshop with 5 organizations that were being evaluated by VSO. I got to help facilitate a small group of women who were clients of the organizations on how they felt about their experiences. It was very touching actually to hear first hand how volunteers like me and agencies like CUSO-VSO do help people who need it most.
70 volunteers got together in the capitol Yaounde for 4 days of monitoring and evaluation review. Rousing discussions, debates, arguments and a good dose of French English confusion rounded out the week. I ate well including pizza ( I craved cheese), Indian ( one Indian restaurant), pizza again and Chinese. I then hit a large supermarket and bought cheese, chorizo, granola, soy sauce, rice wraps- treats to bring back and hoard. It was grand except for the almost pick pocket disaster- I fortunately was wearing my caba ( my large big mama dress), which has so many folds he couldn’t get his hand in my pocket. I elbowed him and got into my taxi. A wicked man as they would say here.
I took the opportunity to take a few days and went for the weekend to Kribi, a beautiful seaside resort a 4 hour bus ride away. 4 volunteers from Quebec are there working in a model forestry program. So, I stayed in a hotel and swam, ate prawns and enjoyed a wonderful day. ( I will omit details of worms on walls that fall on people in the middle of the night. The geckos at least catch mosquitos!) We visited a pygmy village, had a pirogue ride down a river and relaxed. Not to belabour transportation problems but the 4 hours was in a bus with 10 rows, seats for 3.5 people and 5 people were squashed together. I discovered that men are better seat mates because they actually move a little to give you space ( women don’t) and they don’t have big hips ( women do). Imagine the three seats in an airplane filled with 3 reasonably sized people. Then add a large women with large bags of groceries that wedges herself in to the seat. My legs were numb by the end of the journey. PS Anyone getting out before the end had to climb out through the windows of the bus.
Anyway, enough of the planes, trains and automobile stories. In all seriousness, tourism will never take hold here as long as the roads and transportation structures are so poor.
I’m back with a big welcome from my ’family’ and gang at work. I was missed and missed them too. I was happy to be out of the city.
This week we are preparing for International Womens Day next Tuesday. It is a huge event here and one that I’m sure will remind me of years in the past. There are about 800 women’s groups marching down our main street ( the same street the kids marched mid-February). We will all have a uniform, the same dresses, that one of our staff is sewing as I write this. We will dance, eat, play soccer, etc. These people can teach me how to have fun! When is the last time we did any serious marching? And as for drumming and dancing….
I am going to be offering a 2 day workshop with another volunteer and a few of Ntankah’s staff in the next few weeks. I am excited and nervous about that. It will be on HIV/Aids and counseling skills for community volunteers and home based care givers. Another volunteer, our IT guy, is going to offer a day on Excel and one on Word, plus set up a website. So between these things and some reports to send in to VSO on the organization, March should be a little busier.
Well the bats are busy mating and our goats are having babies. Spring is coming!! For all of my dear friends and family as well it will be soon!. Take care all and happy International Women’s day!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
February 8, 2011
February 8, 2011
Well, the rainy season is approaching and I’ve had a taste of what’s to come. We have had several short but powerful rains that are the worst of what we get in November on the Island. The rats that live in my ceiling become very active and I pray that they stay up where they belong! The dust settles when the rains come and people get ready to start planting. The fields are prepared and people here are getting excited about the shift in weather. Most people here are farmers and depend on what they grow for the majority of their livelihoods as well as food for their families.
I had the pleasure of having my first trek last Sunday. A group of us new and old volunteers headed for Belo- three taxi rides from where I am. I have included pictures which show the beautiful landscape. We are surrounded by mountains and hills, valleys and grazing land. There was a trail for parts of the trek, none for others; some of the trails went through farm lands, at other times we were on beautiful ridges. It was about 4 hours up, over and down.
Well, the rainy season is approaching and I’ve had a taste of what’s to come. We have had several short but powerful rains that are the worst of what we get in November on the Island. The rats that live in my ceiling become very active and I pray that they stay up where they belong! The dust settles when the rains come and people get ready to start planting. The fields are prepared and people here are getting excited about the shift in weather. Most people here are farmers and depend on what they grow for the majority of their livelihoods as well as food for their families.
I had the pleasure of having my first trek last Sunday. A group of us new and old volunteers headed for Belo- three taxi rides from where I am. I have included pictures which show the beautiful landscape. We are surrounded by mountains and hills, valleys and grazing land. There was a trail for parts of the trek, none for others; some of the trails went through farm lands, at other times we were on beautiful ridges. It was about 4 hours up, over and down.
Just a mention about taxi rides. On the way back we had 8, yes 8 passengers in a Toyota type taxi. Three with the driver, four in the backseat and one passenger in the boot. The driver drove full speed and we all prayed we didn’t have to push up the hills. It took about 2 hours to travel 44 kilometers, with waiting for taxis, driving, stopping the taxis to pick up other people and deliver them, cool off the car, etc. Traveling has become an adventure in itself!
My work with Ntankah Village Women’s Common Initiative Group is not as yet fleshed out but I am working hard at patience ( one of my virtues as many of you know!). The group functions as a collective, making decisions and planning cooperatively. As they grow and expand the areas they are wanting to work in, some staff and members have specialized in certain areas. There is an income generating project working with a piggery, raising fowl, operating a corn grinder which turns corn into flour for Fu-Fu. Members also hire themselves out to farmers to work and the income generated goes back into the organization. They have a savings program for members as well.
A nurse midwife is here every day and is training a member in basic nursing and medicines. We are able to do screening for HIV/AIDS, see pregnant women for consultation and treat problems that do not require hospitalization.
There are a large contingent of caregivers that visit widows, orphans and other vulnerable people in the community many of whom have HIV or AIDS. They have been trained over the years by attending workshops and consulting with the group’s leader. The caregivers are in the community and help identify vulnerable peoples that then can be followed up by others if need be.
The women are inspiring in the work they have done with very little money. The vision of helping the underprivileged is strong and members problem-solve frequently to come up with options for needy people ( this week after meeting together they have found a house for a woman with 5 children who lost her husband and whose father-in-law threw her out). They have formed a strong network with other grassroots women’s groups in the area as well as a doctor, a lab technician, a lawyer and others who can be called on for service. I am now part of that network of resource people that can be called on to support the counseling work, provide workshops down the road, work on proposals to access funding sources and anything else the members see that I can do.
Right now we are planning International Women’s day March 8th. This is a very important holiday in Cameroon and every community has a celebration. We are singing, dancing, having skits to impart HIV information as well as food and a soccer game (men versus women). I guess after all the years I’ve watched soccer. It’s time to play a game. That’ll be worth a few pictures.
For any of you reading this blog, please let me know if there are things you would like to know about. I would be happy to share my experiences via email.
Just a mention about taxi rides. On the way back we had 8, yes 8 passengers in a Toyota type taxi. Three with the driver, four in the backseat and one passenger in the boot. The driver drove full speed and we all prayed we didn’t have to push up the hills. It took about 2 hours to travel 44 kilometers, with waiting for taxis, driving, stopping the taxis to pick up other people and deliver them, cool off the car, etc. Traveling has become an adventure in itself!
My work with Ntankah Village Women’s Common Initiative Group is not as yet fleshed out but I am working hard at patience ( one of my virtues as many of you know!). The group functions as a collective, making decisions and planning cooperatively. As they grow and expand the areas they are wanting to work in, some staff and members have specialized in certain areas. There is an income generating project working with a piggery, raising fowl, operating a corn grinder which turns corn into flour for Fu-Fu. Members also hire themselves out to farmers to work and the income generated goes back into the organization. They have a savings program for members as well.
A nurse midwife is here every day and is training a member in basic nursing and medicines. We are able to do screening for HIV/AIDS, see pregnant women for consultation and treat problems that do not require hospitalization.
There are a large contingent of caregivers that visit widows, orphans and other vulnerable people in the community many of whom have HIV or AIDS. They have been trained over the years by attending workshops and consulting with the group’s leader. The caregivers are in the community and help identify vulnerable peoples that then can be followed up by others if need be.
The women are inspiring in the work they have done with very little money. The vision of helping the underprivileged is strong and members problem-solve frequently to come up with options for needy people ( this week after meeting together they have found a house for a woman with 5 children who lost her husband and whose father-in-law threw her out). They have formed a strong network with other grassroots women’s groups in the area as well as a doctor, a lab technician, a lawyer and others who can be called on for service. I am now part of that network of resource people that can be called on to support the counseling work, provide workshops down the road, work on proposals to access funding sources and anything else the members see that I can do.
Right now we are planning International Women’s day March 8th. This is a very important holiday in Cameroon and every community has a celebration. We are singing, dancing, having skits to impart HIV information as well as food and a soccer game (men versus women). I guess after all the years I’ve watched soccer. It’s time to play a game. That’ll be worth a few pictures.
For any of you reading this blog, please let me know if there are things you would like to know about. I would be happy to share my experiences via email.
Well, the rainy season is approaching and I’ve had a taste of what’s to come. We have had several short but powerful rains that are the worst of what we get in November on the Island. The rats that live in my ceiling become very active and I pray that they stay up where they belong! The dust settles when the rains come and people get ready to start planting. The fields are prepared and people here are getting excited about the shift in weather. Most people here are farmers and depend on what they grow for the majority of their livelihoods as well as food for their families.
I had the pleasure of having my first trek last Sunday. A group of us new and old volunteers headed for Belo- three taxi rides from where I am. I have included pictures which show the beautiful landscape. We are surrounded by mountains and hills, valleys and grazing land. There was a trail for parts of the trek, none for others; some of the trails went through farm lands, at other times we were on beautiful ridges. It was about 4 hours up, over and down.
Well, the rainy season is approaching and I’ve had a taste of what’s to come. We have had several short but powerful rains that are the worst of what we get in November on the Island. The rats that live in my ceiling become very active and I pray that they stay up where they belong! The dust settles when the rains come and people get ready to start planting. The fields are prepared and people here are getting excited about the shift in weather. Most people here are farmers and depend on what they grow for the majority of their livelihoods as well as food for their families.
I had the pleasure of having my first trek last Sunday. A group of us new and old volunteers headed for Belo- three taxi rides from where I am. I have included pictures which show the beautiful landscape. We are surrounded by mountains and hills, valleys and grazing land. There was a trail for parts of the trek, none for others; some of the trails went through farm lands, at other times we were on beautiful ridges. It was about 4 hours up, over and down.
Just a mention about taxi rides. On the way back we had 8, yes 8 passengers in a Toyota type taxi. Three with the driver, four in the backseat and one passenger in the boot. The driver drove full speed and we all prayed we didn’t have to push up the hills. It took about 2 hours to travel 44 kilometers, with waiting for taxis, driving, stopping the taxis to pick up other people and deliver them, cool off the car, etc. Traveling has become an adventure in itself!
My work with Ntankah Village Women’s Common Initiative Group is not as yet fleshed out but I am working hard at patience ( one of my virtues as many of you know!). The group functions as a collective, making decisions and planning cooperatively. As they grow and expand the areas they are wanting to work in, some staff and members have specialized in certain areas. There is an income generating project working with a piggery, raising fowl, operating a corn grinder which turns corn into flour for Fu-Fu. Members also hire themselves out to farmers to work and the income generated goes back into the organization. They have a savings program for members as well.
A nurse midwife is here every day and is training a member in basic nursing and medicines. We are able to do screening for HIV/AIDS, see pregnant women for consultation and treat problems that do not require hospitalization.
There are a large contingent of caregivers that visit widows, orphans and other vulnerable people in the community many of whom have HIV or AIDS. They have been trained over the years by attending workshops and consulting with the group’s leader. The caregivers are in the community and help identify vulnerable peoples that then can be followed up by others if need be.
The women are inspiring in the work they have done with very little money. The vision of helping the underprivileged is strong and members problem-solve frequently to come up with options for needy people ( this week after meeting together they have found a house for a woman with 5 children who lost her husband and whose father-in-law threw her out). They have formed a strong network with other grassroots women’s groups in the area as well as a doctor, a lab technician, a lawyer and others who can be called on for service. I am now part of that network of resource people that can be called on to support the counseling work, provide workshops down the road, work on proposals to access funding sources and anything else the members see that I can do.
Right now we are planning International Women’s day March 8th. This is a very important holiday in Cameroon and every community has a celebration. We are singing, dancing, having skits to impart HIV information as well as food and a soccer game (men versus women). I guess after all the years I’ve watched soccer. It’s time to play a game. That’ll be worth a few pictures.
For any of you reading this blog, please let me know if there are things you would like to know about. I would be happy to share my experiences via email.
Just a mention about taxi rides. On the way back we had 8, yes 8 passengers in a Toyota type taxi. Three with the driver, four in the backseat and one passenger in the boot. The driver drove full speed and we all prayed we didn’t have to push up the hills. It took about 2 hours to travel 44 kilometers, with waiting for taxis, driving, stopping the taxis to pick up other people and deliver them, cool off the car, etc. Traveling has become an adventure in itself!
My work with Ntankah Village Women’s Common Initiative Group is not as yet fleshed out but I am working hard at patience ( one of my virtues as many of you know!). The group functions as a collective, making decisions and planning cooperatively. As they grow and expand the areas they are wanting to work in, some staff and members have specialized in certain areas. There is an income generating project working with a piggery, raising fowl, operating a corn grinder which turns corn into flour for Fu-Fu. Members also hire themselves out to farmers to work and the income generated goes back into the organization. They have a savings program for members as well.
A nurse midwife is here every day and is training a member in basic nursing and medicines. We are able to do screening for HIV/AIDS, see pregnant women for consultation and treat problems that do not require hospitalization.
There are a large contingent of caregivers that visit widows, orphans and other vulnerable people in the community many of whom have HIV or AIDS. They have been trained over the years by attending workshops and consulting with the group’s leader. The caregivers are in the community and help identify vulnerable peoples that then can be followed up by others if need be.
The women are inspiring in the work they have done with very little money. The vision of helping the underprivileged is strong and members problem-solve frequently to come up with options for needy people ( this week after meeting together they have found a house for a woman with 5 children who lost her husband and whose father-in-law threw her out). They have formed a strong network with other grassroots women’s groups in the area as well as a doctor, a lab technician, a lawyer and others who can be called on for service. I am now part of that network of resource people that can be called on to support the counseling work, provide workshops down the road, work on proposals to access funding sources and anything else the members see that I can do.
Right now we are planning International Women’s day March 8th. This is a very important holiday in Cameroon and every community has a celebration. We are singing, dancing, having skits to impart HIV information as well as food and a soccer game (men versus women). I guess after all the years I’ve watched soccer. It’s time to play a game. That’ll be worth a few pictures.
For any of you reading this blog, please let me know if there are things you would like to know about. I would be happy to share my experiences via email.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
First Week in Bafut
First week in Bafut
I am getting used to being called white man,especially by the children. There's no gender differentiation here.
I am getting used to scaring children because of my skin color.
I am getting used to eating mounds of corn meal mush and jamajama ( sliced, boiled greens).
I am still not used to being waited on by young people; getting meals made, cleaning done,etc. I need to get assertive and cook some of my own meals. When I asked my host about shopping and cooking for myself she asked me why?
I am still not used to the sitting around aspect of Cameroon. There is a lot of visiting and imparting information in the day to day connection between people.
I am not used to the fact that I have paid for nothing since I have come into this family. We have gone out for drinks in the evening a few times and if I'm invited I don't pay. I will have to invite them and then they will have no choice but to let me pay! There is no concept here of potluck. If dave invited the hikers to the Xmas party he would have to supply all the food ( way to go Joanne), and at least two drinks a person.
I am not used to, and just can't, eat because it is offered. I am mastering the art of rubbing my belly and saying ' belly flop' which means belly is full up in Pidgin. If I stop by to say hello I will be asked to take drink or food ( see how hard it is to make a choice?).
I have had my first motorcycle ride as a passenger. I was scared ...less. I created much enjoyment and merriment for everyone. They are determined to teach me to ride myself. There is a motorcycle connected to the group that I can use. I think I might just stick with cabs as much as I can. At 150 francs a ride ( about 50 cents) it's worth it ( even with 7 people in a cab).
I am loving saying good morning/afternoon/evening to everyone, usually with a one or two handed hand shake. With a few women I know a little better I am getting a slap first that moves into a handshake with a snap of the fingers to finish off.
I am getting used to seeing little kids (3+) walking alone or in small groups long distances to school. Also, seeing kids with huge burdens on their heads walking great distances for their families ( with food, wood, etc).
I have not adjusted to the slowness and inconsistency of the communication here. My internet is down as much a s it is up and running. Downloading a document or attaching one can take hours.
I am getting adjusted to the women in this group breaking into song and clapping , maybe doing a dance around a table. They are threatening to have me play goalie for International Women's Day when the women challenge the men to a soccer match. Funny eh girls. Stayed tuned for March 8th news.
I am getting used to being called white man,especially by the children. There's no gender differentiation here.
I am getting used to scaring children because of my skin color.
I am getting used to eating mounds of corn meal mush and jamajama ( sliced, boiled greens).
I am still not used to being waited on by young people; getting meals made, cleaning done,etc. I need to get assertive and cook some of my own meals. When I asked my host about shopping and cooking for myself she asked me why?
I am still not used to the sitting around aspect of Cameroon. There is a lot of visiting and imparting information in the day to day connection between people.
I am not used to the fact that I have paid for nothing since I have come into this family. We have gone out for drinks in the evening a few times and if I'm invited I don't pay. I will have to invite them and then they will have no choice but to let me pay! There is no concept here of potluck. If dave invited the hikers to the Xmas party he would have to supply all the food ( way to go Joanne), and at least two drinks a person.
I am not used to, and just can't, eat because it is offered. I am mastering the art of rubbing my belly and saying ' belly flop' which means belly is full up in Pidgin. If I stop by to say hello I will be asked to take drink or food ( see how hard it is to make a choice?).
I have had my first motorcycle ride as a passenger. I was scared ...less. I created much enjoyment and merriment for everyone. They are determined to teach me to ride myself. There is a motorcycle connected to the group that I can use. I think I might just stick with cabs as much as I can. At 150 francs a ride ( about 50 cents) it's worth it ( even with 7 people in a cab).
I am loving saying good morning/afternoon/evening to everyone, usually with a one or two handed hand shake. With a few women I know a little better I am getting a slap first that moves into a handshake with a snap of the fingers to finish off.
I am getting used to seeing little kids (3+) walking alone or in small groups long distances to school. Also, seeing kids with huge burdens on their heads walking great distances for their families ( with food, wood, etc).
I have not adjusted to the slowness and inconsistency of the communication here. My internet is down as much a s it is up and running. Downloading a document or attaching one can take hours.
I am getting adjusted to the women in this group breaking into song and clapping , maybe doing a dance around a table. They are threatening to have me play goalie for International Women's Day when the women challenge the men to a soccer match. Funny eh girls. Stayed tuned for March 8th news.
First Days in Bafut
First day in Bafut
Well, I was the first to be picked up this morning by Mama Veronica. First order of business- the grass roots car had conked out down the lane and we had boys push it somewhere to get something done. John, Veronica’s husband took great pleasure in telling me about the state of life living with a grassroots woman. There was a lot of laughter- the car was the worst of the worst cars I have ever seen. Totally cracked windshield, rusted out body, stuffing out of the seats, metal exposed in the seat rims. But, it chugged along and got us home ( My luggage had to go in an accompanying motor cycle taxi).
Home is 8 miles outside Bamenda (Mile 8), then 15-20 minutes down a winding DIRT ROAD. Veronica and John have 5 children, one still at home in secondary school, one in secondary school boarding, a daughter Theresa. In university ( she has been appointed my guide and protector along with the boys). They have built a small complex on a piece of land. I am to live in a LITTLE suite on the other side of the courtyard to the main house. I am enclosed by caring and cooking. I have a little sitting room with leapard print wicker chairs and a TV, a small bedroom with single bed and a wardrobe with little lambs on it. Remember the ones to hang your clothes in and zip up? Then a closet kitchen that the boys are still finishing and a little bathroom, with toilet and small sink. Shower is a hand held one, cold water only.
The family has encouraged me to join them anytime in a large living room space with comfy furniture, bigger TV and VCR. The kitchen is a fire pit set aside in a large outdoor court yard. There is a new pup who was a rescue dog ( no need for my dog spray here). First day I watched fu-fu and ndole being cooked over a fire pit ( 2 hours). We ate and then went to the Women’s Center. It is a couple of desks, a few sewing machines and a few computers. Internet is dial up.
Then a big adventure going back to the market in Bamenda to get a few foods and towels. Theresa, a daughter home for the afternoon from university came with me to haggle and protect me ( orders of Mama). So, I bought used towels that looked like Value Village rejects, plastic containers that again looked suspiciously used and good vegies and fruits that I got taken advantage of (worse if I was alone). I got bargaining tips ( I smile too much and look too eager) and lessons on getting taxis.
Back to the center where two elders were waiting for me. They had walked all the way to the house wanting to great me and I was shopping! I was invited for a beer which was non negotiable and all the group talked Pidgin- not a word understood by me. Many people, especially the older people, don’t speak English, especially if they haven’t been educated. Just when things were interesting enough the power went out, a frequent occurance here apparently. Candles were brought out and everyone continued to sit.
Home at last, unpacked groceries into the common kitchen and am alone. This will take some getting used too. The women here are trying to do a little of everything. They help each other with small loans for businesses, help pay for medicines ( they just got someone to donate some medical supplies), teach sewing for young women to have skill, Theresa is trying to get youth together, giving families money for school fees, helping support a midwife to deliver babies more safely….. Little money and lots of ideas. Transportation is horrendous. Women are walking some for hours to get a basket of vegies to a market. These same women have furnished my home, supplied my kitchen, made my bed and are feeding me. I feel blessed by kindness and welcome by everyone I met today.
Tomorrow we go to a funeral of a client who died this morning from AIDS
( ’a stubborn man who refused to take medicines’). I have been told that this week is to visit, rest, and get organized. I have to combat the urge to ’do something’ and just be!
Well, off to make my ’still need to buy list’ for going into town on Saturday. I have my outfit and caba ( a big mumu dress) to pick up, toilet paper and bleach ( have to clean my little place and get it for the veggies) and hangers to buy and a housewarming party to go to. He is a Philipino volunteer who has been here for 1.5 years and just signed on for a second stint. He is a fantastic cook and is making an Asian feast.
Day Two In Bafut
I spent the day waiting, sitting, waiting, then at a funeral where we sat, ate, drank, sat, ate moved over, drank, ate, watched dances including a masked dance. I was exhausted from the sitting and the heat. It will be an art to not accept all that is offered to me as the food is not all that palatable. My host says it will take years to build up a tolerance for the food! Other volunteer veterans say most of us will loose weight here.
Well, I was the first to be picked up this morning by Mama Veronica. First order of business- the grass roots car had conked out down the lane and we had boys push it somewhere to get something done. John, Veronica’s husband took great pleasure in telling me about the state of life living with a grassroots woman. There was a lot of laughter- the car was the worst of the worst cars I have ever seen. Totally cracked windshield, rusted out body, stuffing out of the seats, metal exposed in the seat rims. But, it chugged along and got us home ( My luggage had to go in an accompanying motor cycle taxi).
Home is 8 miles outside Bamenda (Mile 8), then 15-20 minutes down a winding DIRT ROAD. Veronica and John have 5 children, one still at home in secondary school, one in secondary school boarding, a daughter Theresa. In university ( she has been appointed my guide and protector along with the boys). They have built a small complex on a piece of land. I am to live in a LITTLE suite on the other side of the courtyard to the main house. I am enclosed by caring and cooking. I have a little sitting room with leapard print wicker chairs and a TV, a small bedroom with single bed and a wardrobe with little lambs on it. Remember the ones to hang your clothes in and zip up? Then a closet kitchen that the boys are still finishing and a little bathroom, with toilet and small sink. Shower is a hand held one, cold water only.
The family has encouraged me to join them anytime in a large living room space with comfy furniture, bigger TV and VCR. The kitchen is a fire pit set aside in a large outdoor court yard. There is a new pup who was a rescue dog ( no need for my dog spray here). First day I watched fu-fu and ndole being cooked over a fire pit ( 2 hours). We ate and then went to the Women’s Center. It is a couple of desks, a few sewing machines and a few computers. Internet is dial up.
Then a big adventure going back to the market in Bamenda to get a few foods and towels. Theresa, a daughter home for the afternoon from university came with me to haggle and protect me ( orders of Mama). So, I bought used towels that looked like Value Village rejects, plastic containers that again looked suspiciously used and good vegies and fruits that I got taken advantage of (worse if I was alone). I got bargaining tips ( I smile too much and look too eager) and lessons on getting taxis.
Back to the center where two elders were waiting for me. They had walked all the way to the house wanting to great me and I was shopping! I was invited for a beer which was non negotiable and all the group talked Pidgin- not a word understood by me. Many people, especially the older people, don’t speak English, especially if they haven’t been educated. Just when things were interesting enough the power went out, a frequent occurance here apparently. Candles were brought out and everyone continued to sit.
Home at last, unpacked groceries into the common kitchen and am alone. This will take some getting used too. The women here are trying to do a little of everything. They help each other with small loans for businesses, help pay for medicines ( they just got someone to donate some medical supplies), teach sewing for young women to have skill, Theresa is trying to get youth together, giving families money for school fees, helping support a midwife to deliver babies more safely….. Little money and lots of ideas. Transportation is horrendous. Women are walking some for hours to get a basket of vegies to a market. These same women have furnished my home, supplied my kitchen, made my bed and are feeding me. I feel blessed by kindness and welcome by everyone I met today.
Tomorrow we go to a funeral of a client who died this morning from AIDS
( ’a stubborn man who refused to take medicines’). I have been told that this week is to visit, rest, and get organized. I have to combat the urge to ’do something’ and just be!
Well, off to make my ’still need to buy list’ for going into town on Saturday. I have my outfit and caba ( a big mumu dress) to pick up, toilet paper and bleach ( have to clean my little place and get it for the veggies) and hangers to buy and a housewarming party to go to. He is a Philipino volunteer who has been here for 1.5 years and just signed on for a second stint. He is a fantastic cook and is making an Asian feast.
Day Two In Bafut
I spent the day waiting, sitting, waiting, then at a funeral where we sat, ate, drank, sat, ate moved over, drank, ate, watched dances including a masked dance. I was exhausted from the sitting and the heat. It will be an art to not accept all that is offered to me as the food is not all that palatable. My host says it will take years to build up a tolerance for the food! Other volunteer veterans say most of us will loose weight here.
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