So, there is a reason why I haven't talked much about the work I am doing here with SWANNEPHA, and to be honest, it's because there isn't any. The Organization has been going through a lot of difficulties lately and we happened to come right in the middle of the chaos. The lady who we were supposed to work with quit two weeks before we arrived and the woman who was promoted to the position is less than desirable. Right now we have no electricity, no telephone, and no petty cash, so working on projects is incredibly difficult. SWANNEPHA has no money whatsoever, and it has definitely taken a toll on our motivation and desire.
But enough of the depressing stuff, Aye and I have some things on our own to keep busy. We have talked to school children about basic hygiene and self esteem. We have created a lesson plan about body parts and taught at a local preschool. We have visited rural clinics and brought the samples back to the hospital for testing. The two of us REFUSE to sit in the office staring at each other or reading books.
Something that I am struggling with is the sustainability of my actions. When I leave here, everything that I am doing will stop. The challenge is creating something that can be used even when I'm back at home. Unfortunately, I don't believe SWANNEPHA can assist me with this task as they are scrambling for funding and support.
The next couple of weeks are going to be full of critical thinking and brainstorming ideas to work on for the remainder of my placement. Wish me luck!
Your SiSwati word for the day is 'Sondzela' meaning 'come closer'. We now say this to kids that we pass on our way to and from work so that they can get close enought for us to give them stickers. On another note, it is also the backpackers hostel that we love. http://www.hostelz.com/hostel/27966-Sondzela-Backpackers-Lodge-Hostel We had our orientation here, and we spend a night last week with the rest of the SWANNEPHA team.
Thanks so much for your patience,
Love,
Gina
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