It is the day before my departure and I leave with mixed feelings. I have made friends here, truly, that I know will be friends for life. Who knew... that half way around the world and in completely different cultural surroundings, connections of mind, heart and purpose could run so deep!?
This trip has been very successful, in ways that we did not anticipate. Friendships, organizational accomplishments with local ward and villages, shipping dilemmas clarified, tax waivers begun, assurances of safety at Parliament and Ministry government levels and a greater understanding of cultural and family histories, that still shapes decision making today... all are invaluable and key to implementation and sustainability of this Uru Water Project!
Our wonderful Mt. Kilimanjaro climbers and film crew, of course, accomplished AMAZING personal feats in their push to the top. I and countless others, in Uru and the USA, are forever grateful for their commitments and some very real suffering, to benefit this project’s fundraising efforts. Ranging in age from 19 to 72 years old... a needed correction of Mama Florentina’s age, by the way!... this group has truly set a standard of selfless service for collective good, that will reap benefits in the lives of many.
With thanks, may God bless them all.
We have received donor support from family and friends, pledging in the names of our brave Kilimanjaro climbers. Additionally, we are receiving donations through our WelIs For The Grandmothers program, in which donations of $2000. gathered individually or as a group, may be made to create a well. These Grandmother or Mother, Grandfather or Father, Brother or Sister wells, will honor our own loved ones who have sacrificed, worked hard or inspired us. Their efforts or ideals have made our lives better... just like the countless grandmothers and mothers who have carried water and sacrificed in Uru, working to sustain and improve the lives of later generations here. AGAIN, we celebrate the generosity of people, who hear of the needs of strangers and make their problems their own.
With thanks, may God bless them all.
ICBD faces some challenges still, in raising the remaining necessary funds to bring the first 25 bore holes into reality this August, as promised. We have all worked so hard and come so far, that I MUST believe the additional monies are on their way even yet, from people and hearts not yet known by us. I am looking forward, in this respect, to returning home to share more deeply of the wonders I have seen here, the possibilities and the great opportunities we have... to create something unimaginably important and lasting and real here!
Lastly, I bring with me stories written by the Uru children, of their challenges and hopes concerning water. I also have a precious ARMLOAD of drawings, that transcends our language barriers. These careful and loving renderings tell their stories with humor and truth, of their daily and life threatening dilemmas with unclean or no available water. Some of the adults have been so inspired by my invitation to share stories of water and Kilimanjaro, that they have formed a Storytellers Group and have begun interviewing ”the old ones”, gathering the folk tales of water and Kibo, the mountain, that are an inherent part of Uru’s ongoing story of Water and Life.
Before “the oldie ones leave us”, as Salome says, we are gathering the people’s stories to preserve for Uru’s children... and now the children of America, as well. Kilimanjaro is a world heritage and some say the beginnings of humankind are here, so these stories are OUR stories, too. And what I REALLY love, is that ICBD and the Uru Water Project, are part of this long and amazing historical shaping of life on Kilimanjaro now, too! With thanks, may God bless us all.
Barbara Joye
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Sunday, February 22, 2009
A Wonderful Weekend
I spent the weekend at Kishumundu Secondary School, in the little house they have built for mujungu *European* volunteers. It was a welcome relief to be on the mountain and James Kiware, the Headmaster, and Salome, the school secretary, went out of their way to make me feel at home. They kept referring to the volunteer house as MY home... and laughing.
I walked into a small house with cement floors and a wooden pantry that they had stocked with fresh vegetables, mango, banana and lots of coca cola.... they joke about coca cola being American wine. The house sits at the back of the school, overlooking a deep ravine that runs with water during the “big rains”. It’s completely dry now.
Salome and I spent a lot of time together, cooking and talking. All meals are prepared fresh as there is no refrigeration. It’s really very healthy, but also very time consuming. Salome comes from a poor family, not that she’s complaining! She is a self made woman and really is one of the most resourceful and happy people I’ve met...ever.
She credits God with every good thing in her life and has worked amazingly hard to educate herself. She brought out every certificate she has ever earned... for computer training, red cross training and volunteerism and secretarial school. She had never shown them to anyone before and I was so touched, because I knew I wasn’t being shown just certificates.
These papers represented the best... and hardest... parts of her life. In the face of cultural challenges faced by a woman and real poverty, she kept working and praying and hoping and working more. She is a single working woman in a culture that still has a foot steeped in very old female roles of near servitude. She serves as a kind and active role model for the young girls at Kishumundu Secondary School, encouraging them to “Study, study, study...stand on your own two feet... education is the only way out of poverty and the only way to protect your future”!
She also counsels them “Do NOT take a bride price from your husband to be, so that he does not think he has BOUGHT you!” In traditional families, the bride’s family is normally paid a gift of cattle or goats or something relative to the groom’s financial status. Salome is one of those people, unlikely at first glance, who is really breaking through barriers of old thinking and cutting a path of equality for women in Tanzania... one student at a time.
I walked, or should I say CLIMBED, to Salome’s church with her this morning. I couldn’t understand the service, since I only know maybe a dozen Swahili words, but prayers and music translate into one’s heart universally! At the end of the service, the minister asked me to tell the small congregation about our water project. So I talked and Salome translated. (Yes, Salome speaks EXCELLENT English... it was one of her certificates!)
The very old women, in particular, were so grateful and excited over water coming soon! One of them bought me an ARMLOAD of fresh spinach, as a way of saying thank you. I carried it down the mountain, hot and tired from the heat but happy in my heart, to share the gift with boarded students at Kishumundu School.
Barbara Joye
I walked into a small house with cement floors and a wooden pantry that they had stocked with fresh vegetables, mango, banana and lots of coca cola.... they joke about coca cola being American wine. The house sits at the back of the school, overlooking a deep ravine that runs with water during the “big rains”. It’s completely dry now.
Salome and I spent a lot of time together, cooking and talking. All meals are prepared fresh as there is no refrigeration. It’s really very healthy, but also very time consuming. Salome comes from a poor family, not that she’s complaining! She is a self made woman and really is one of the most resourceful and happy people I’ve met...ever.
She credits God with every good thing in her life and has worked amazingly hard to educate herself. She brought out every certificate she has ever earned... for computer training, red cross training and volunteerism and secretarial school. She had never shown them to anyone before and I was so touched, because I knew I wasn’t being shown just certificates.
These papers represented the best... and hardest... parts of her life. In the face of cultural challenges faced by a woman and real poverty, she kept working and praying and hoping and working more. She is a single working woman in a culture that still has a foot steeped in very old female roles of near servitude. She serves as a kind and active role model for the young girls at Kishumundu Secondary School, encouraging them to “Study, study, study...stand on your own two feet... education is the only way out of poverty and the only way to protect your future”!
She also counsels them “Do NOT take a bride price from your husband to be, so that he does not think he has BOUGHT you!” In traditional families, the bride’s family is normally paid a gift of cattle or goats or something relative to the groom’s financial status. Salome is one of those people, unlikely at first glance, who is really breaking through barriers of old thinking and cutting a path of equality for women in Tanzania... one student at a time.
I walked, or should I say CLIMBED, to Salome’s church with her this morning. I couldn’t understand the service, since I only know maybe a dozen Swahili words, but prayers and music translate into one’s heart universally! At the end of the service, the minister asked me to tell the small congregation about our water project. So I talked and Salome translated. (Yes, Salome speaks EXCELLENT English... it was one of her certificates!)
The very old women, in particular, were so grateful and excited over water coming soon! One of them bought me an ARMLOAD of fresh spinach, as a way of saying thank you. I carried it down the mountain, hot and tired from the heat but happy in my heart, to share the gift with boarded students at Kishumundu School.
Barbara Joye
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
The wheels are in motion!
Some early rains have started, as a preview of the monsoon season to come, in March. Everyone prays for rain here, so it is always welcome. My own perspective has been altered and I don’t believe I can ever feel unappreciative of rain again.
I spent my morning revising letters for equipment permits and tax waivers. The Uru Ward counselors Evarist Momburi, Rose Temba and Stephen Mambaleo, are working overtime with me, to make sure our remaining time together is maximized. EVERYONE is thinking of nothing but water and wells right now. I have met with Dr. Chami, this area’s Parliament representative, two times now. I am learning more about Tanzanian politics and the working of government in these matters than I ever thought possible! I am surprised at how much I am enjoying this aspect, even with all the challenges of communication, cultural understandings and required learning curves! I think it’s probably because I am so grateful for this level of cooperation and so excited to see the internal mechanics of our project moving forward!
I keep telling everyone here it’s too early to plan such things, but they are already planning a BIG celebration for the first well that brings in water. Florentina woke me up last night, pounding on my door in her night gown. Dr. Chami had just called her, pressing her/me for a firm drilling date, because the President of Tanzania would like to clear his schedule for the dedication! Florentina could not stop laughing.
No one in the USA can possibly believe how important these buckets of water are to very thirsty people. I can only keep writing... and telling... and praying with these people and our friends at home... that we will all realize our common vision as planned.
For today at least, we are all giving thanks for the sound and smell and taste... of rain!
Barbara Joye
I spent my morning revising letters for equipment permits and tax waivers. The Uru Ward counselors Evarist Momburi, Rose Temba and Stephen Mambaleo, are working overtime with me, to make sure our remaining time together is maximized. EVERYONE is thinking of nothing but water and wells right now. I have met with Dr. Chami, this area’s Parliament representative, two times now. I am learning more about Tanzanian politics and the working of government in these matters than I ever thought possible! I am surprised at how much I am enjoying this aspect, even with all the challenges of communication, cultural understandings and required learning curves! I think it’s probably because I am so grateful for this level of cooperation and so excited to see the internal mechanics of our project moving forward!
I keep telling everyone here it’s too early to plan such things, but they are already planning a BIG celebration for the first well that brings in water. Florentina woke me up last night, pounding on my door in her night gown. Dr. Chami had just called her, pressing her/me for a firm drilling date, because the President of Tanzania would like to clear his schedule for the dedication! Florentina could not stop laughing.
No one in the USA can possibly believe how important these buckets of water are to very thirsty people. I can only keep writing... and telling... and praying with these people and our friends at home... that we will all realize our common vision as planned.
For today at least, we are all giving thanks for the sound and smell and taste... of rain!
Barbara Joye
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Sunday Church
Mama Flo and I drove to Kibosho today, to attend a children’s mass. Kibosho is west of Uru and the church we traveled to had been built decades ago by missionaries. Its sanctuary rivals some Chicago churches in size and I marveled at the stain glass windows throughout. While it had all the familiar landmarks of a Catholic church, it was also uniquely African. Most enjoyable was the choir that sang most of the mass, acapella to an African drumbeat, with all their hearts and voices. I marvel wherever I go, at the passion and pride that the children in particular bring to everything they do.
This church also offers a primary school, and this is where Mama Flo attended school in her childhood. She shared some reminiscences with me, as we walked the expansive grounds edged by banana trees. One nun skeptically informed her that she didn’t believe Florentina would pass “Form 6” into Secondary school. In typical Florentina style, she responded, “that’s ok... I want to drive a taxi anyway!” That was a statement meant to shock the Sister, as it was the farthest thing from a typical female job that Flo could think of. It had the desired affect on the Sister.
But Florentina said the conversation also served to secretly motivate her. She was determined to prove this nun wrong and EVERYONE was shocked again when the parish priest showed up to inform the Sister that Florentina had finished FIRST in her required examinations, in all of Kilimanjaro. Florentina was cautioned, though, “Do Not Be Proud, Florentina... but you are going to Secondary School.”
And so, Florentina avoided life as a taxi driver... and the rest is history.
Barbara Joye
This church also offers a primary school, and this is where Mama Flo attended school in her childhood. She shared some reminiscences with me, as we walked the expansive grounds edged by banana trees. One nun skeptically informed her that she didn’t believe Florentina would pass “Form 6” into Secondary school. In typical Florentina style, she responded, “that’s ok... I want to drive a taxi anyway!” That was a statement meant to shock the Sister, as it was the farthest thing from a typical female job that Flo could think of. It had the desired affect on the Sister.
But Florentina said the conversation also served to secretly motivate her. She was determined to prove this nun wrong and EVERYONE was shocked again when the parish priest showed up to inform the Sister that Florentina had finished FIRST in her required examinations, in all of Kilimanjaro. Florentina was cautioned, though, “Do Not Be Proud, Florentina... but you are going to Secondary School.”
And so, Florentina avoided life as a taxi driver... and the rest is history.
Barbara Joye
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Some History
I spent time in the Moshi library today, researching the Chagga people’s stories. Chagga are the people who live in Uru and they have a very rich history. They have always been peaceful - hardworking and committed to agriculture and family. The people here now are very interested in technology and education, seeing these things as a means of advancing themselves in the world.
The library was one more experience of how time has stood still here since British colonial occupation ended in 1961 and Tanzania became a sovereign country. The remnants of colonial times are everywhere, the buildings and homes still present but in ruin or disrepair, with little to no modern improvements. Apparently, there was no transitional effort when the British left, they simply picked up and went, when the new government was sanctioned. There was no effort ever made to work cooperatively as business people. When I asked about this, the older people themselves can’t explain it. If the British were fearful, which is likely, these peaceful Chagga people don’t understand it.
Many of the books in the library were from these times, with an absolute dearth of any more recent materials. In a country whose people prize education so much, it was one more heartbreaking realization of the long term effects... of short sighted politics and greed... and the resulting poverty. On the positive side, there were many young people in the library, studying quietly. They also fill the internet cafes here, anxious to be apprised of the world. They pay from 50 cents to one dollar an hour here, when they have the funds, to access the internet at these cafes.
Meanwhile, the village officials and local politicians are all highly motivated to work cooperatively with ICBD and one another, on behalf of the Uru Water Project. My challenge right now is too MUCH help... which is truly a GOOD problem to have! There is such HOPE here now, and for that, we are ALL grateful.
Barbara Joye
The library was one more experience of how time has stood still here since British colonial occupation ended in 1961 and Tanzania became a sovereign country. The remnants of colonial times are everywhere, the buildings and homes still present but in ruin or disrepair, with little to no modern improvements. Apparently, there was no transitional effort when the British left, they simply picked up and went, when the new government was sanctioned. There was no effort ever made to work cooperatively as business people. When I asked about this, the older people themselves can’t explain it. If the British were fearful, which is likely, these peaceful Chagga people don’t understand it.
Many of the books in the library were from these times, with an absolute dearth of any more recent materials. In a country whose people prize education so much, it was one more heartbreaking realization of the long term effects... of short sighted politics and greed... and the resulting poverty. On the positive side, there were many young people in the library, studying quietly. They also fill the internet cafes here, anxious to be apprised of the world. They pay from 50 cents to one dollar an hour here, when they have the funds, to access the internet at these cafes.
Meanwhile, the village officials and local politicians are all highly motivated to work cooperatively with ICBD and one another, on behalf of the Uru Water Project. My challenge right now is too MUCH help... which is truly a GOOD problem to have! There is such HOPE here now, and for that, we are ALL grateful.
Barbara Joye
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
A Personal Safari
In Tanzania, a “safari” is not only a trip to see big game animals. Its literal meaning is a “far journey”. So I returned yesterday from my “safari” to Tanga, a very old port city on the Indian Ocean.
As the drive is 6 hours to Tanga, I had a lot of time to reflect on the people living in this harsh, semi arid region. Hundreds of miles of near desert are framed by first the Usambara mountains and then the Pares mountains. I constantly wonder at the harsh conditions of heat and inaccessibility to water and at the strength and will of people to survive in these surroundings.
I saw huge acreages devoted to the growing of sisal, a crop suitable to hot sun and no water. Apparently Tanzania was the sisal capital of the world at one time, before the world market for it collapsed in the 1970s. More ancient and sobering history recounts this same road as part of the original ivory and slave caravan routes.
Because the landscapes and even everyday life have changed so little since these times, it is not difficult to imagine these caravans and the misery they exported. Just like the endless stretches of red sand and plant scruff, seeing into the stretch of history and the stories of greed built on human misery is not only possible, it is palpable. Its legacy is present still in the bodies and land of its descendants, calling for a spirit of renewal and freedom from the bondage that still lives in people’s minds.
An overnight stay in Tanga’s port area allowed Florentina and I to investigate regulations at the shipping authorities. After many conversations with various offices, we found our way to a clearing agent. This office will be our central contact for all paper work needed to have our equipment container clear customs, achieve tax exemption status and to be transported by truck to Moshi. We left Tanga with good information and feeling positive about our ability to achieve safe receipt and transport of the long awaited bore hole equipment, for Uru.
In our way, maybe, this water relief project will provide a small healing of old sins, by offering some freedom for the women here, who carry this society and its burdens literally on their backs.
May the dreams of women, their thoughts and talents be realized... through the gift of water... soon!
Barbara Joye
As the drive is 6 hours to Tanga, I had a lot of time to reflect on the people living in this harsh, semi arid region. Hundreds of miles of near desert are framed by first the Usambara mountains and then the Pares mountains. I constantly wonder at the harsh conditions of heat and inaccessibility to water and at the strength and will of people to survive in these surroundings.
I saw huge acreages devoted to the growing of sisal, a crop suitable to hot sun and no water. Apparently Tanzania was the sisal capital of the world at one time, before the world market for it collapsed in the 1970s. More ancient and sobering history recounts this same road as part of the original ivory and slave caravan routes.
Because the landscapes and even everyday life have changed so little since these times, it is not difficult to imagine these caravans and the misery they exported. Just like the endless stretches of red sand and plant scruff, seeing into the stretch of history and the stories of greed built on human misery is not only possible, it is palpable. Its legacy is present still in the bodies and land of its descendants, calling for a spirit of renewal and freedom from the bondage that still lives in people’s minds.
An overnight stay in Tanga’s port area allowed Florentina and I to investigate regulations at the shipping authorities. After many conversations with various offices, we found our way to a clearing agent. This office will be our central contact for all paper work needed to have our equipment container clear customs, achieve tax exemption status and to be transported by truck to Moshi. We left Tanga with good information and feeling positive about our ability to achieve safe receipt and transport of the long awaited bore hole equipment, for Uru.
In our way, maybe, this water relief project will provide a small healing of old sins, by offering some freedom for the women here, who carry this society and its burdens literally on their backs.
May the dreams of women, their thoughts and talents be realized... through the gift of water... soon!
Barbara Joye
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Life in Moshi
I am based at Mama Florentina’s home in Moshi, Tanzania. While Moshi is a town... soon to be a city, officially, I am told... it still has all the characteristics of a third world culture. Mama’s home is in the “best” part of town, but is conversely referred to as Shanty Town. That is a GOOD name, here. She has added several out buildings since our visit a year ago, including a “cow house” with a thatched roof and three cows, for milking.
The electricity failed, again, yesterday. No one gets excited here. They calmly just light oil lamps and Matrona starts up the outside “cookers”, fueled by charcoal, to prepare the meals. We spent the evening sitting under the roofed deck, commenting on the nearly full moon, the possible early coming of the monsoon season, and sharing tales of childhood escapades. Mama Flo apparently was quite adventurous as a child, which truly comes as no surprise. Based on the tales, the only surprise is that she LIVED to tell the tales! My own tales of escape and daring pale in comparison to her life in Africa. But she seemed to enjoy them, anyway.
It has been cloudy and periodically rainy for the last two days, hence the talk of an early monsoon season. The rain is a very welcome presence here in Tanzania, bringing relief from the heat and hope that water will soon run through the dried up creeks and furrows.
All roads in Moshi, except for a few, very main thorough fares, are red dirt and quite rutted. When it rains, the roads become VERY slippery, and really quite treacherous up into the villages. Due to changes in weather and some other complications with local schedules, I will have to delay my walk of the proposed well sites in the villages. Instead, Mama and I, driven by Ephraim, will make our way to the port in Tanga today. It is an overnight trip and will allow us to make contacts and get clearer about shipping regulations. This is VERY important, as we will be charged storage charges if our container of equipment does not clear customs or does not begin transport within 7 days of coming into harbor! We discussed trying to take the bus, to save on costs, but in the end decided that the increased risk to ourselves and additional time spent was not worth it.
And so, we leave for Tanga, with prayers for a safe journey and connection to good people... who will play their part in Water for Uru!
Barbara Joye
The electricity failed, again, yesterday. No one gets excited here. They calmly just light oil lamps and Matrona starts up the outside “cookers”, fueled by charcoal, to prepare the meals. We spent the evening sitting under the roofed deck, commenting on the nearly full moon, the possible early coming of the monsoon season, and sharing tales of childhood escapades. Mama Flo apparently was quite adventurous as a child, which truly comes as no surprise. Based on the tales, the only surprise is that she LIVED to tell the tales! My own tales of escape and daring pale in comparison to her life in Africa. But she seemed to enjoy them, anyway.
It has been cloudy and periodically rainy for the last two days, hence the talk of an early monsoon season. The rain is a very welcome presence here in Tanzania, bringing relief from the heat and hope that water will soon run through the dried up creeks and furrows.
All roads in Moshi, except for a few, very main thorough fares, are red dirt and quite rutted. When it rains, the roads become VERY slippery, and really quite treacherous up into the villages. Due to changes in weather and some other complications with local schedules, I will have to delay my walk of the proposed well sites in the villages. Instead, Mama and I, driven by Ephraim, will make our way to the port in Tanga today. It is an overnight trip and will allow us to make contacts and get clearer about shipping regulations. This is VERY important, as we will be charged storage charges if our container of equipment does not clear customs or does not begin transport within 7 days of coming into harbor! We discussed trying to take the bus, to save on costs, but in the end decided that the increased risk to ourselves and additional time spent was not worth it.
And so, we leave for Tanga, with prayers for a safe journey and connection to good people... who will play their part in Water for Uru!
Barbara Joye
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Next Steps
Our group of Kilimanjaro climbers has returned to America, each to their respective states and homes. I remain in Tanzania until February 26, to follow up on details for placement of the first 25 wells. This is a time of great wonder and gratitude. Wonder at the continued unfoldment of international cooperation and sense of unity through our common purpose. And gratitude for the safe return of our group from their great adventure up Kilimanjaro... and their success in raising funds and awareness for ICBD’s immediate relief water project for Uru. We are very much closer to meeting our plan to begin digging bore holes this summer!
I will continue to work through the weekend, going to the villages and walking the proposed sites for the first wells. We will be placing them at schools, clinics and community/church centers, for maximum immediate impact. I am looking forward to the walking... and climbing! Standing on the actual sites, beneath the canopy of rain forest with banana and mango trees and feeling the red earth beneath my feet, will bring this vision one more step towards realization.
While life is, without question, very difficult here, Kilimanjaro is a respite of beauty and a promise of life’s provision. The people gather fruits from the forests, grow gardens of vegetables, and cut grasses from her slopes to feed the goats and cattle. I will look forward to time on this mountain and among her people, tomorrow!
Barbara Joye
I will continue to work through the weekend, going to the villages and walking the proposed sites for the first wells. We will be placing them at schools, clinics and community/church centers, for maximum immediate impact. I am looking forward to the walking... and climbing! Standing on the actual sites, beneath the canopy of rain forest with banana and mango trees and feeling the red earth beneath my feet, will bring this vision one more step towards realization.
While life is, without question, very difficult here, Kilimanjaro is a respite of beauty and a promise of life’s provision. The people gather fruits from the forests, grow gardens of vegetables, and cut grasses from her slopes to feed the goats and cattle. I will look forward to time on this mountain and among her people, tomorrow!
Barbara Joye
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Amazing safari and moving forward!
Life in Tanzania has continued to be filled with wonder. Our entire group spent two days on Safari, with an amazing number of animals seen and photographed. One land rover contained the film crew and the other had the rest of us playing tourists. It was really very funny to look up and see maybe six cameras at once pointed at each other… filming or photographing someone... as THEY filmed and photographed someone else! The good news is we have some truly beautiful pictures and film footage, for the documentary and to share when we get home.
The landscape of Ngorogoro is so dramatic and utterly unique. It was formed by first a rift... a great chasm that opened and allowed lava to pour out onto the earth’s surface. Over time, the lava itself formed a volcano. Eventually the volcano collapsed in on itself, creating a great flat plain or crater, surrounded by a mountainous wall.
As safari visitors we traveled first to the top of the crater walls, then descended over a rugged, sometimes slippery road to the plain far below. Once there, the eco system of plant and animal life living within this naturally contained environment, offered us an immediately apparent view of nature in balance. Predators and prey coexist, in largely plain view of one another.
It was thrilling to see a pride of lions resting in the grasses, with a herd of gazelles grazing peacefully in the distance. If a lion began moving, the herd went on alert, gauging whether or not the movements were a threat. It was an incredible visual odyssey of life and death... and the impossibly intricate interdependence of creatures large and small.
Once back in Moshi, we split up to accomplish dual purposes. Catherine went with Matrona, our wonderful cook here, to film life in her village home. As a single mother, Matrona struggles greatly to care for her small son and to help with her extended family. She dreams of a better future for herself and Soloman, not knowing how, but hoping for the best. Catherine was deeply touched by the material poverty she witnessed today, and was challenged to maintain composure in the presence of these hard realities.
The rest of us met with officials from the Tazanian Water department and the Pangani River Basin Project. We accomplished a lot in the obtaining of further information and support towards the required permits and surveys. We remain on track for drilling to begin this summer...with the continued support of our family, friends and caring donors.
We are all so excited and hopeful to see our plans for immediate clean water relief realized. These first 25 wells are eagerly awaited by many, many women like Matrona... who are already grateful and joyous of the time and health the wells will provide them. Water IS life... and no one knows it better than these women who walk, climb and carry it for hours and hours everyday. Today brought us ALL one step closer to the realization of our shared dreams!
Barbara Joye
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Another side of Africa
With a day’s rest and many stories shared, the group will now go on safari together for two days! We are being joined by the climb guide, Honest, and bringing the climb cook, Valance. We are all looking forward to time together and to the excitement of seeing and photographing the animals. This is a chance for everyone to connect to other aspects of the culture here... and to another whole terrain, plant and animal life.
I will look forward to sharing updates on Tuesday!
God bless.
Barbara Joye
I will look forward to sharing updates on Tuesday!
God bless.
Barbara Joye
Saturday, January 31, 2009
IT HAS BEEN DONE!
GREETINGS to all! It is a day of gratitude and celebration, with all of our climbers safe and back down from the mountain!
We had quite an evening last night... with the mountain guides and porters joining us at Mama Florentina’s... for feasting, prayers of gratitude... and many stories of the challenges they faced and overcame. There was laughter... and tales of how everyone had to let go of “fear and personal dignities” in favor of survival!
I must correct my previous blog entry- the climbers did NOT have a 24 hour rest before the final ascent... our information was incorrect. In fact, they remained on their feet for 22 of the last 24 hours! Torrential rains complicated their pacing and slowed their movements over very slippery rock faces. At some points, they were literally clinging to rock faces!
Poppy has suffered from extreme lung congestion throughout her climb, with Ron coming down with it midway, too. She believes she had the beginnings of bronchitis when she left the U.S. The climbers carried antibiotics with them, so she began taking them during her climb. With the thinning altitude... 50% less oxygen... she was compelled to remain at their last camp, rejoining the group at their descent. She literally could not exert and get a breath, too.
Poppy describes watching the group begin their night time ascent, “all wearing headlamps, a winding trail of tiny lights making their way upward.” As she watched the lights of the climbers, she saw “a beautiful falling star arc over them”, and “believed them to be safe and protected” in their final journey skyward. As she continued watching them move out of sight, she found peace in her role, in that moment, of holding a prayer space of hope and faith for the group.
Mama Florentina Masawe, with a heart condition and at 62 years old, made it to Stella Point, the last peak before Uhuru...Freedom Point... a difference of only 200 meters altitude from the absolute top of Kilimanajro! She is thrilled with her effort and the group is truly in awe of her. She began her ascent every day, 2 hours earlier than everyone else. She paced herself... slowly, slowly... so she could keep going. Last night when she arrived home, she immediately went into town, shopping for food and making arrangements for the celebration!! Truthfully, everyone else looked like they were in a bit of shock when they came down... it took a while before they all looked cognizant Not Mama!
The remainder of the group made the final, almost vertical ascent... to Uhuru... Mary, Margie, Catherine, Ron and Jeremy. And I can tell you, they are grateful and very happy to have made it. What an incredible group of people! The gift of effort, heart and symbolism of It Can Be Done! will continue to inspire us all- in our lives and for this water project, in Africa and at home. IT HAS BEEN DONE!
Barbara Joye
Friday, January 30, 2009
Are we there yet?
We have word that we should pick up the climbers later today! We have not heard if all made it to the top, but I know that all intended to make a final push...
after their day of rest. We're all anxious and excited for their safe return... and will be celebrating with a big dinner...cooked by Matrona... later tonight!
While the group made their way skyward, I have been moving things along on the ground! I am focusing right now on making way for the planned shipment of all our equipment, this summer. Everything needs to be in perfect order for receipt, transport and the waiver of VAT... or taxes... because we are a non profit with a charitable mission. Evarist Momburi, Councelor of Uru North ward, has been especially helpful to me with all the meetings and necessary conversations. The village officials, Tanzanian government and volunteers alike... have made truly great efforts to organize and cooperate. In any country, this is a remarkable feat unto itself!
I have visited some of the villages and schools again, where we plan to place some of the wells. The situation is even more difficult that when we came last year. This region did not receive what they call the “small rains” in November and December, so even the open furrows, or dug trenches, that funnel rain water down the mountain to those below, are completely dry. I cannot tell you how difficult it was to hold back tears, as I stood by school children in their uniforms, scooping brown water from barely wet, muddy ditches, their drinking water from a tiny rain we had the day before.
And the women here... they do EVERYTHING in these villages. Childcare, agriculture, livestock, cooking and carrying water up and down for hours and hours. They are even more tired now... having to walk farther up the mountain to find natural springs. The women are so eager to know and learn other, better ways, and they ask me many questions about our lives in the U.S. Their enthusiasm and willingness is contagious and has set me dreaming anew, of connections between ICBD and other organizations, who focus on micro loans and economics for women. But, WATER FIRST... so that all will feel healthier and stronger... and may have the fortitude and belief, in dreams of their own making.
May we all dream together, for the watering of our own lives... in the ways we each and everyone need... for happiness and wellbeing.
Blessings to each and all for your prayers.
Barbara Joye
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Final Ascent!
Jambo! Word from the mountain seems positive. The group rested for 24 hours at a base camp, 17,000 feet, before they will make their final ascent, beginning this morning.
This helps them to acclimatize to the thin air, as well as gives their bodies some relief from climbing. They remain in good spirits... for this final push to the top!
They have had their challenges... weather... altitude sickness... muscle strain and soreness. Just being outside in the elements presents its own challenges, with a constant exposure to rain, sleet and snow. The porters and guides are very experienced, though, and have provided our group with good support, food and well set up camps, for rest and regrouping.
The guides and porters are amazing themselves. Their livelihoods are dependent on people who come to climb Kilimanjaro. The porters carry everything for the camps in baskets on their heads and use short cuts to stay ahead of the climbing groups. These short cuts are steep and very rugged and the porters are always at risk, themselves. A few of the porters were quite young... 16 years old. It is a rough way to earn a living, but there is so little opportunity here, that this work is considered to be good work.
The guides are extremely experienced in weather conditions and people's responses to the altitude. They assume this responsibility with courage, grace and great caring.
It takes them years to develop the necessary skills and proven strength for this work. When Sam became ill, it was one of the guides, Daniel, who brought him safely ...and very quickly!... down the mountain. We are grateful for the skill and strength demonstrated by Honest and Daniel, the guides for our group.
Barbara Joye
Moshi, Tanzania
This helps them to acclimatize to the thin air, as well as gives their bodies some relief from climbing. They remain in good spirits... for this final push to the top!
They have had their challenges... weather... altitude sickness... muscle strain and soreness. Just being outside in the elements presents its own challenges, with a constant exposure to rain, sleet and snow. The porters and guides are very experienced, though, and have provided our group with good support, food and well set up camps, for rest and regrouping.
The guides and porters are amazing themselves. Their livelihoods are dependent on people who come to climb Kilimanjaro. The porters carry everything for the camps in baskets on their heads and use short cuts to stay ahead of the climbing groups. These short cuts are steep and very rugged and the porters are always at risk, themselves. A few of the porters were quite young... 16 years old. It is a rough way to earn a living, but there is so little opportunity here, that this work is considered to be good work.
The guides are extremely experienced in weather conditions and people's responses to the altitude. They assume this responsibility with courage, grace and great caring.
It takes them years to develop the necessary skills and proven strength for this work. When Sam became ill, it was one of the guides, Daniel, who brought him safely ...and very quickly!... down the mountain. We are grateful for the skill and strength demonstrated by Honest and Daniel, the guides for our group.
Barbara Joye
Moshi, Tanzania
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Challenges and Courage
The Kilimanjaro climbers are now above 16,500 feet and all are feeling some effect from the altitude. Sam Fell, one of the film crew, has descended after reaching 16,000 feet.
It is never predictable as to who might feel the effects of the altitude, to the point of debilitating illness, and consequently forcing a descent. Sam suffered a lot, almost from the beginning with the altitude aspects, but he made a truly enduring effort to continue climbing. I cannot believe he made it to 16,000 feet, given his very negative response to the thin air and altitude… along with weather challenges of rain and snow! He made it back down the mountain last night, in a hard rain and over some very slippery inclines. Honestly... he’s my current hero in this very real test of courage. Sam is now feeling very well and happy with his effort... after a hot shower and a warm dinner last night!
The group perseveres, towards the 19,500 foot peak... the tallest free standing mountain on earth ... and symbol of commitment and courage to all who attempt an ascent to her top.
God bless them all.
Barbara Joye
Monday, January 26, 2009
Third day of Climb!
We have received a message this morning from the Kilimanjaro climbers and all are doing well! They are in the 3rd day of a 6 day ascent, so almost halfway to the top now. Everyone remains positive and hopeful of reaching the top.
Florentina Masawe has indicated she is tiring, but still determined. At 62 years old, she is the oldest climber, but this Kili climb has very special meaning to her. In addition to the symbolism of climbing as a partner with ICBD and providing African representation, Florentina was born on this mountain. She has climbed twice before... albeit younger! She grew up in the villages of Kilimanjaro, leaving when she received scholarship to Oxford. She continued her education in Sweden, where she married and had her children. Several years ago, she felt a strong call to return to her birthplace. Her husband has passed on and her children grown, so she has worked tirelessly to provide assistance in these villages.
She served as a field social worker in Sweden for 25 years, so her assistance with this water project has been absolutely invaluable. In truth, it could not have happened without her.
Her children are asking her to return to Sweden, but she is torn between family in Sweden and the roots of her lineage speaking to her through this mountain. So climbing Kilimanjaro is a personal act of love for her, believing it may be the last time she makes this ascent. I find excuses to ask her about life on her mountain, just so I can see the light in her eyes as she speaks of Kilimanjaro.
It is our hope that the mountain is loving her... and all of these climbers... as they add their personal stories to the generations of stories, lived and told and retold, about Kilimanjaro.
Barbara Joye
Moshi, Tanzania
Friday, January 23, 2009
Safe Arrival!
Phones, Flights, Florentina and Faces
It is almost 3 a.m. on Saturday morning, here in Tanzania. As I am ground support for our Kilimanjaro climbers, I’m up late figuring out a few bugs in our international calling system. We Americans are very funny in our expectations, believing we can set up systems in a third world country... like cell phones... and they will work just like back home!
Our flights were great and all luggage arrived intact, so for this we are very grateful! We take this as a good sign, of continued good journey to come.
From Florentina’s home ...our partner, coordinator and host... we saw our first view of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The weather is exceptionally clear, which is GREAT for the upcoming climb, and our first view of the mountain this trip, was both breath taking and aweing.. The faces of those who are here in Africa for the first time, were priceless, reflecting more than words can convey. First and foremost, I’m sure, were thoughts of the pending climb and what lies ahead to reach the top. All of the climbers are determined and excited and have already shown great support of one another in the early preparations. The climb will begin around 12 noon on Saturday ...which is 3am Saturday, Chicago time. Their guides, Honest and Daniel, came by this afternoon, to review preparations with the climbers. Everyone feels good about the arrangements and confident in their guides... and themselves.
Your prayers and good wishes for these wonderful people *Margie, Mary, Florentina, Poppy, Ron, Catherine, Jeremy and Sam* are much appreciated!
Water, Wells, and A Great Welcome
Earlier tonight, we met with a number of our village partners and government officials. We received terrific support from Mr. Chami, of Parliament, in particular. This was a GREAT relief and very encouraging, as we are doing our best to ensure safety, protection, sustainability and active involvement of the people here, at every level. A number of our concerns were answered beyond expectation, and we will be moving forward with the genuine support and commitment of all concerned.
For all our friends and family, be assured that the people here are deeply caring and respectful of our group and all in America who are contributing towards this project. They have asked us to convey their appreciation to everyone, acknowledging your generosity and sacrifices, and offer a resounding KARIBU… you are WELCOME here... always.
Blessings to one and all.
Barbara Joye
Monday, January 19, 2009
"Climb For A Cause" January 2009
Dear family and friends,
Our amazing team of climbers and ground support for It Can Be Done! departs Wednesday, January 21st for Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.
We have seven people participating in our “Climb for a Cause” fundraiser: Margie Braband, our fearless leader, her sister, Mary Legallet of California, and our friends Poppy Moelter and Ron Ricci from the Wisconsin area. In addition to climbing, our film team, Jeremy Vranich, Catherine Lynch and Sam Fell, all natives of the Lake Forest/Lake Bluff area, will be filming the 19,500 ft. vertical trek to be developed into a documentary.
Our ground support will be Barbara Joye, who will be staying in the village and meeting with many Uru people to continue the development of the water project committees, ascertain placement of the wells and collect stories from these wonderful loving people.
Many of you know that we have arrived at the long-researched decision of Phase I. It will consist of: purchasing the drill rig and supplies, shipping it all to Tanzania and hiring a local team for the project and installation of the FIRST 25 WELLS! We hope to begin Phase I sometime this summer. Each well comes to a cost of $2,000. We are asking people to come forth and become a “well steward” and be in charge of collecting the $2,000. to honor people or ideals that inspire us all, with the first wells to honor our ancestors..."whose many generational sacrifices have made the world a better place".
If you’d like to donate toward this goal or toward an individual climber, please visit our website http://www.itcanbedoneafrica.org/
Most importantly right now, we ask you to send our team your loving intentions and prayers for pure positive energy, healthy bodies, stamina, perseverance, positive attitude and Spirit to be with them, and to the people of Uru - heartfullness and love. We know that God has led us on this path every step of the way and will continue to protect, enfold and inspire us to move forward on this first phase of our mission.
Our climbers will begin their 6-day trek on Saturday, the 24th . I will be staying here this time around (but with them in spirit!) and as I receive updates (cell phones do work on the mountain!), I will keep you informed of their progress. So check this blog now and then!
Our deepest gratitude for all your support and prayers.
Chris Moses
IT CAN BE DONE!
Our amazing team of climbers and ground support for It Can Be Done! departs Wednesday, January 21st for Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.
We have seven people participating in our “Climb for a Cause” fundraiser: Margie Braband, our fearless leader, her sister, Mary Legallet of California, and our friends Poppy Moelter and Ron Ricci from the Wisconsin area. In addition to climbing, our film team, Jeremy Vranich, Catherine Lynch and Sam Fell, all natives of the Lake Forest/Lake Bluff area, will be filming the 19,500 ft. vertical trek to be developed into a documentary.
Our ground support will be Barbara Joye, who will be staying in the village and meeting with many Uru people to continue the development of the water project committees, ascertain placement of the wells and collect stories from these wonderful loving people.
Many of you know that we have arrived at the long-researched decision of Phase I. It will consist of: purchasing the drill rig and supplies, shipping it all to Tanzania and hiring a local team for the project and installation of the FIRST 25 WELLS! We hope to begin Phase I sometime this summer. Each well comes to a cost of $2,000. We are asking people to come forth and become a “well steward” and be in charge of collecting the $2,000. to honor people or ideals that inspire us all, with the first wells to honor our ancestors..."whose many generational sacrifices have made the world a better place".
If you’d like to donate toward this goal or toward an individual climber, please visit our website http://www.itcanbedoneafrica.org/
Most importantly right now, we ask you to send our team your loving intentions and prayers for pure positive energy, healthy bodies, stamina, perseverance, positive attitude and Spirit to be with them, and to the people of Uru - heartfullness and love. We know that God has led us on this path every step of the way and will continue to protect, enfold and inspire us to move forward on this first phase of our mission.
Our climbers will begin their 6-day trek on Saturday, the 24th . I will be staying here this time around (but with them in spirit!) and as I receive updates (cell phones do work on the mountain!), I will keep you informed of their progress. So check this blog now and then!
Our deepest gratitude for all your support and prayers.
Chris Moses
IT CAN BE DONE!
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