Tanzania

In 2003 when we first visited Mnase village education was not a priority for children, for all sorts of reasons. Things have changed and this year they just had their ninth graduation – very excited to receive these pictures from our contact Seth. #VFTN2018

It was great to see the medical dispensary up and running with medicine in the cabinet, a microscope, solar panels on the roof and electricity about to be connected.  It now has full-time medical workers and fieldworkers dealing with the day to day running. Next door, the government’s hospital is now a clinic for pregnant women. It was intended for people who are severely ill and need a bed but sadly at the moment it is being used as a dorm for the field students.

When speaking with the medical staff and chairman of the village we realised that the workers don’t live near the dispensary, not the best situation. So we discussed the possibilities of building a home that would be available to those that work at the dispensary. This would be an incredible help for any emergency situations at night which at the moment aren’t covered.

Mnase village was like a desert and Bekah’s eyes were soon streaming as strong winds blew up dust into her eyes. Because the fields were so bare, apart from a few decimated crops, plastic litter could be seen everywhere dotting the village landscape. Before they had access to plastic all their waste would decompose naturally. No refuse collection here!

Seth has encouraged the chairman that each visit we stay in a different part of town in order to continually build friendships. This time we are staying in a house with sofas / couches and amazingly, just connected 3 days before, electricity! Wow what incredible changes in the community. Everyone was pleased to see us and there were lots of warm welcomes.

Very thankful to let you know that 121 sacks of maize was delivered to Mnase village – the community are very thankful to all those who helped make this possible – Asante Sana!