Unfortunately we received news that little Peter lost his battle with malaria and an inflamed spleen on Thursday morning (while we were on safari). He was buried on Friday afternoon at Kyampisi (near the fresh water well), well-supported by the KCM family and the Kyampisi community at large. According to Peter Sewakiryanga there was a very large gathering at the service which was followed by a long walk (over 1 kilometre) to the burial site.
On the other hand, it seems young Hope is doing quite well. She was taken by a witch doctor some years ago, had her tongue removed and was bound for 18 months while left alone out in the bush. All this has seen her suffer nerve and brain damage. She has also developed significant issues with muscle tone, limb movement and general well being. KCM have agreed to assist in her ongoing treatment and therapy.
I took Hope and members of Hope's immediate family to the Physio-Therapist on Tuesday afternoon. It seems the Physio is willing to work with Hope at the Jesus House for as long as is required. One twist in all this is it seems that Hope may have contracted Cerebral Palsy following a bad case of malaria while she was bound by the witch doctor. Apparently CP is not that uncommon in infants if they get a bad case of malaria and it remains untreated, especially when they're very young.
The Physio is quietly confident that he'll be able to restore Hope back to her former self but he's unsure what impact the CP will have on this outcome. Only time will confirm this.
In the mean time, we're praying for a miracle in her life.
Tuesday, 30 October 2012
Monday, 29 October 2012
The Surgery
Today (Monday) saw us drive to 'The Surgery', a Medical Clinic set up predominantly for Mzungu (western) patients. This is our third visit to the clinic in less than a week. Our previous visits were for Eli (last Thursday) and for Hannah and Lydia (last Friday).
To cut a long story short we've been quite sick as a family for more than a week. While we were all sick at the same time initially, it's been the kids, especially Hannah and Eli, who have been sick the longest.
Our visit last Friday revealed that Lydia had caught an Intestinal Amoeba. Based on the symptoms being the same for all 3 kids, Dr Stockley diagnosed that Hannah and Eli had the same problem and prescribed the same medication.
While Lydia and Eli responded quite quickly to the treatment, Hannah's symptoms continued.
The reason for dropping into 'The Surgery' today was to deliver a stool sample from Hannah and Eli (to confirm the presence of an Intestinal Amoeba). While there I decided I might as well give a stool sample to check myself out as well.
According to the test results we are all clear of Intestinal Amoebas (praise the Lord) but as Hannah has high levels of yeast (probably due to her not eating very much and her taking the wrong medication for the past few days) Dr Stockley prescribed her some alternative medication for the next 4 days.
While the initial medication for Intestinal Amoebas cost 100,000 schillings, Hannah's new medication only cost 2,000 schillings.
Interestingly we waited for a total of 5 hours on our 3 visits to 'The Surgery'.
Of even more interest was that we met Lynda, a lady from Australia who is married to Peter (Joel) Schuurs, older brother of Mark Schuurs who was in my Year 11 and 12 class at St Peters Lutheran College. It certainly is a small world?
To cut a long story short we've been quite sick as a family for more than a week. While we were all sick at the same time initially, it's been the kids, especially Hannah and Eli, who have been sick the longest.
Our visit last Friday revealed that Lydia had caught an Intestinal Amoeba. Based on the symptoms being the same for all 3 kids, Dr Stockley diagnosed that Hannah and Eli had the same problem and prescribed the same medication.
While Lydia and Eli responded quite quickly to the treatment, Hannah's symptoms continued.
The reason for dropping into 'The Surgery' today was to deliver a stool sample from Hannah and Eli (to confirm the presence of an Intestinal Amoeba). While there I decided I might as well give a stool sample to check myself out as well.
According to the test results we are all clear of Intestinal Amoebas (praise the Lord) but as Hannah has high levels of yeast (probably due to her not eating very much and her taking the wrong medication for the past few days) Dr Stockley prescribed her some alternative medication for the next 4 days.
While the initial medication for Intestinal Amoebas cost 100,000 schillings, Hannah's new medication only cost 2,000 schillings.
Interestingly we waited for a total of 5 hours on our 3 visits to 'The Surgery'.
Of even more interest was that we met Lynda, a lady from Australia who is married to Peter (Joel) Schuurs, older brother of Mark Schuurs who was in my Year 11 and 12 class at St Peters Lutheran College. It certainly is a small world?
Rote Learning
It seems the prevailing teaching method in Uganda is rote learning. Teachers teach from textbooks and students learn definitions for the upcoming test.
While I was teaching the Social Studies topic 'the environment' to the Primary 3 class last week I thought I would open up discussion to define different aspects of 'the environment'.
It was pretty clear that the only definition the students (and their teacher) wanted to discuss was that defined in the textbook: 'the things around us'. While this is true, it seemed a little narrow to me.
I was hoping to break the class into small groups (each with a sheet of butchers paper) and ask the students to work as a team and write down as many different aspects of the environment that they could think of (e.g. the natural environment v the man-made environment). I think I'll try this strategy next time I'm asked to teach - and I'll appoint a scribe, a reporter and someone to collect the required materials (pen and paper). I think the students will really enjoy the strategy, as will the teachers.
I'll let you know how it all pans out!
While I was teaching the Social Studies topic 'the environment' to the Primary 3 class last week I thought I would open up discussion to define different aspects of 'the environment'.
It was pretty clear that the only definition the students (and their teacher) wanted to discuss was that defined in the textbook: 'the things around us'. While this is true, it seemed a little narrow to me.
I was hoping to break the class into small groups (each with a sheet of butchers paper) and ask the students to work as a team and write down as many different aspects of the environment that they could think of (e.g. the natural environment v the man-made environment). I think I'll try this strategy next time I'm asked to teach - and I'll appoint a scribe, a reporter and someone to collect the required materials (pen and paper). I think the students will really enjoy the strategy, as will the teachers.
I'll let you know how it all pans out!
Soccer v Borda Borda team
After driving little Peter to the Medical Clinic in Kalagi (on Friday afternoon) members of the KCM team (including workmen assisting at the Kyampisi building site) competed against the local Kyampisi Borda Borda drivers.
The word 'compete' is a good one, as the game was highly competitive. Even though I'd played competitive soccer at high school many years ago I felt like a boy playing against men - not in relation to my age or size (actually I was the oldest player on the field and probably one of the biggest) but in relation to my skills - Africans play soccer at every available opportunity and can do things with a ball that I can only dream about! Their natural talent is certainly well developed.
At half time the score was 1-1. During the second half KCM scored two goals (actually Peter Sewakiryanga scored 2 goals) and the Borda Borda team failed to score any.
I was a little surprised by Peter's skills, but after hearing that he used to play in the National soccer team, I can fully appreciate where he gained his prowess.
As there had been some rain falling on the field, those of us not wearing soccer boots found it quite slippery. To be honest though, even if I had been dressed appropriately, I would have still looked second-class at best.
At the end of the game we took a team photo, gave 3 cheers for the Borda Borda team and prayed for those who had been playing and spectating.
The word 'compete' is a good one, as the game was highly competitive. Even though I'd played competitive soccer at high school many years ago I felt like a boy playing against men - not in relation to my age or size (actually I was the oldest player on the field and probably one of the biggest) but in relation to my skills - Africans play soccer at every available opportunity and can do things with a ball that I can only dream about! Their natural talent is certainly well developed.
At half time the score was 1-1. During the second half KCM scored two goals (actually Peter Sewakiryanga scored 2 goals) and the Borda Borda team failed to score any.
I was a little surprised by Peter's skills, but after hearing that he used to play in the National soccer team, I can fully appreciate where he gained his prowess.
As there had been some rain falling on the field, those of us not wearing soccer boots found it quite slippery. To be honest though, even if I had been dressed appropriately, I would have still looked second-class at best.
At the end of the game we took a team photo, gave 3 cheers for the Borda Borda team and prayed for those who had been playing and spectating.
Malaria Test with little Peter
Prior to playing soccer at Kyampisi on Friday afternoon, Brittney (a married lady from Tennessee, USA) and I drove little Peter to the Medical Clinic at Kalagi.
Peter has an enlarged spleen which has led to other complications including anaemia and a lower tolerance to infection. He has also required 4 blood transfusions over the past few months.
After presenting with a high fever and diarrhea it was thought he may now have malaria. The Clinic nurse gave Peter one of the standard Malaria Tests - which requires a drop of the patient's blood (together with another solution) being placed on a short plastic 'ruler'. After about 20 minutes the Test indicates whether the result is positive or negative.
In Peter's case, the test came back positive and he was given the appropriate medication, via a needle in his thigh - much to his horror!
This particular treatment required Peter to have 2 follow-up needles on Saturday and Sunday respectively.
Unfortunately Peter hasn't improved and we plan to take him to Case Medical Surgery on Monday for another blood transfusion and they'll probably admit him to hospital.
Peter has an enlarged spleen which has led to other complications including anaemia and a lower tolerance to infection. He has also required 4 blood transfusions over the past few months.
After presenting with a high fever and diarrhea it was thought he may now have malaria. The Clinic nurse gave Peter one of the standard Malaria Tests - which requires a drop of the patient's blood (together with another solution) being placed on a short plastic 'ruler'. After about 20 minutes the Test indicates whether the result is positive or negative.
In Peter's case, the test came back positive and he was given the appropriate medication, via a needle in his thigh - much to his horror!
This particular treatment required Peter to have 2 follow-up needles on Saturday and Sunday respectively.
Unfortunately Peter hasn't improved and we plan to take him to Case Medical Surgery on Monday for another blood transfusion and they'll probably admit him to hospital.
Saturday, 27 October 2012
Electricity Challenges
The past week has seen us living more often without electricity than with electricity - especially during those hours when having it is a blessing!
To be honest, the novelty is starting to wear off, as it's a little frustrating when the phone, computer and camera have all run out of charge and you want to use them. Similarly it's a little frustrating if you have charge on the computer and you want to access the Internet, but it's not available as there's no power to run the router.
I understand the Ugandan Government is selling it's hydro-power to neighbouring countries to help pay off their growing debt (something that seems to be a growing global problem).
To be honest, the novelty is starting to wear off, as it's a little frustrating when the phone, computer and camera have all run out of charge and you want to use them. Similarly it's a little frustrating if you have charge on the computer and you want to access the Internet, but it's not available as there's no power to run the router.
I understand the Ugandan Government is selling it's hydro-power to neighbouring countries to help pay off their growing debt (something that seems to be a growing global problem).
Ja Ja Margaret
Last Wednesday afternoon Peter took the KCM men to meet some of the local Kyampisi identities - one of these was Ja Ja (grandma) Margaret, a 90 year old lady who lives with her extended family and is blind. After we'd spoken with her for a while (in Lugandan) Peter asked me to pray for her family. Before praying, I asked Peter to ask Margaret if there was anything that she really needed and that would make her more comfortable. She asked if we could repair her leaking roof and provide her with a mattress, sheets and a blanket.
After I prayed, we returned back to the Kyampisi church where we've been working for the past week - building the roof for the new ministry centre at the back of the Children's Church.
Last Thursday after taking Sonia and the kids to 'The Surgery' a Mzungu (western) doctor's surgery in Kampala (separate blog) we drove home via Hardware World in Ntinda to buy roofing sheets and roofing nails. A very kind young man at Hardware World secured the iron sheets on the back of the KCM 4WD with rope.
Later that afternoon on our way out to Kyampisi, it was very wet and the rope managed to loosen sufficient to allow the sheets to fly off - in the Main Street of Kijabijo. I quickly stopped the 4WD. As I walked towards the sheeting I could hear the community cheering and see a taxi approaching. I'm thinking 'I hope he manouvers his way around the sheeting' but alas, he drives straight over them and they went flying in all directions.
To cut a long story short, two friendly men and I gathered together the sheets, bound them with rope and fastened them on the back of the 4WD. I paid them both 1000 schillings for their help. Within 15 minutes we were back on our way out to Ja Ja Margaret's home.
We left the roofing sheets with Margaret for erection the next day.
As a team we fixed her roof and gave her a mattress, sheets and a blanket on Friday. Unfortunately as we were at 'The Surgery' again on Friday morning I wasn't a part of this exercise, which was disappointing as I provided the materials and was keen to practically serve her in this way.
After I prayed, we returned back to the Kyampisi church where we've been working for the past week - building the roof for the new ministry centre at the back of the Children's Church.
Last Thursday after taking Sonia and the kids to 'The Surgery' a Mzungu (western) doctor's surgery in Kampala (separate blog) we drove home via Hardware World in Ntinda to buy roofing sheets and roofing nails. A very kind young man at Hardware World secured the iron sheets on the back of the KCM 4WD with rope.
Later that afternoon on our way out to Kyampisi, it was very wet and the rope managed to loosen sufficient to allow the sheets to fly off - in the Main Street of Kijabijo. I quickly stopped the 4WD. As I walked towards the sheeting I could hear the community cheering and see a taxi approaching. I'm thinking 'I hope he manouvers his way around the sheeting' but alas, he drives straight over them and they went flying in all directions.
To cut a long story short, two friendly men and I gathered together the sheets, bound them with rope and fastened them on the back of the 4WD. I paid them both 1000 schillings for their help. Within 15 minutes we were back on our way out to Ja Ja Margaret's home.
We left the roofing sheets with Margaret for erection the next day.
As a team we fixed her roof and gave her a mattress, sheets and a blanket on Friday. Unfortunately as we were at 'The Surgery' again on Friday morning I wasn't a part of this exercise, which was disappointing as I provided the materials and was keen to practically serve her in this way.
Monday, 22 October 2012
Sickness in the family
The past 72 hours has seen us all come down with sickness to varying degrees.
It all started with Sonia who has been feeling poorly for most of the week - while she wasn't actually vomiting, she's certainly felt unwell.
Next was Eli, who came down with vomiting and diarrhea on Thursday morning - we think he may have caught something out at Kyampisi.
Next was Lydia, who came down with vomiting and diarrhea on Thursday night - she probably caught this from Eli.
Next was Hannah who came down with vomiting and diarrhea last night.
Finally I (Mark) came down with diarrhea last night. To be honest, I've never had so many visits to the toilet in one night (I stopped counting at about 20). It was one of those nights when you need to either laugh or cry!
Thankfully it seems we're all getting stronger - but it's been a difficult few days. Last night was particularly trying as the toilet was at a premium all night.
I don't think we've ever had a night like that before in our marriage. I was pleased that the toilet didn't pack it in!
Sonia was amazing in her support of us all last night. She must have thought she was on night shift at the local hospital!
Unfortunately I wasn't able to preach at Kyampisi this morning. I'm praying that I'll be sufficiently improved tomorrow to be able to address the local Ministers Fraternal meeting at 11am in Kampala.
It all started with Sonia who has been feeling poorly for most of the week - while she wasn't actually vomiting, she's certainly felt unwell.
Next was Eli, who came down with vomiting and diarrhea on Thursday morning - we think he may have caught something out at Kyampisi.
Next was Lydia, who came down with vomiting and diarrhea on Thursday night - she probably caught this from Eli.
Next was Hannah who came down with vomiting and diarrhea last night.
Finally I (Mark) came down with diarrhea last night. To be honest, I've never had so many visits to the toilet in one night (I stopped counting at about 20). It was one of those nights when you need to either laugh or cry!
Thankfully it seems we're all getting stronger - but it's been a difficult few days. Last night was particularly trying as the toilet was at a premium all night.
I don't think we've ever had a night like that before in our marriage. I was pleased that the toilet didn't pack it in!
Sonia was amazing in her support of us all last night. She must have thought she was on night shift at the local hospital!
Unfortunately I wasn't able to preach at Kyampisi this morning. I'm praying that I'll be sufficiently improved tomorrow to be able to address the local Ministers Fraternal meeting at 11am in Kampala.
Resources for Kyampisi School
Yesterday (Saturday) saw us drive Peter and four teachers (from Kyampisi School) to Kampala to purchase teacher reference books, student workbooks, school readers, reference material, classroom resources, Bible devotionals, sports equipment, furniture and staff uniforms.
A full day and a little over 4,000,000 schillings ($1,600) brought smiles to the faces of the teachers, not to mention Peter and Moses (KCM Board Chair).
Each of the resources will make a huge difference to the quality of the teaching and learning across the classrooms. The students will be the big winners!
For at least two of the teachers, it was their first time shopping at an inner-city Shopping Centre. This highlighted to me the importance of village teachers getting out of their comfort zone and broadening their horizons - something we probably take for granted in Australia.
Our trip home to the Jesus House was fun as the back of the KCM 4WD was absolutely packed. Peter squeezed into the back with the new purchases. Every time I drive over a bump he yelled out 'slow down'. Just to clarify, I was only driving between 5-10km/hour for much of the journey home.
A full day and a little over 4,000,000 schillings ($1,600) brought smiles to the faces of the teachers, not to mention Peter and Moses (KCM Board Chair).
Each of the resources will make a huge difference to the quality of the teaching and learning across the classrooms. The students will be the big winners!
For at least two of the teachers, it was their first time shopping at an inner-city Shopping Centre. This highlighted to me the importance of village teachers getting out of their comfort zone and broadening their horizons - something we probably take for granted in Australia.
Our trip home to the Jesus House was fun as the back of the KCM 4WD was absolutely packed. Peter squeezed into the back with the new purchases. Every time I drive over a bump he yelled out 'slow down'. Just to clarify, I was only driving between 5-10km/hour for much of the journey home.
Fire at the Jesus House
Last Saturday afternoon while the men of KCM were watching the soccer battle between Uganda and Zambia, Sonia, Lydia and Eli had their own little battle to contend with.
It seems George was playing with matches at the Jesus House when some mattresses under the kitchen area ignited. What followed was a full on fire that threatened the kitchen area, the Jesus House, our flat, Jeffrey's flat and Brenda's flat.
Praise God that the damage was minimal. Thanks to the leadership of Sonia and her quick thinking with a bucket, the focus of Lydia on the hose and available members of the KCM team working together, the facilities at the Jesus House live to tell the story.
The only inconvenience to the Jesus House was damage to the eating area for guests - which will need to be fixed as a matter of some urgency.
It seems George was playing with matches at the Jesus House when some mattresses under the kitchen area ignited. What followed was a full on fire that threatened the kitchen area, the Jesus House, our flat, Jeffrey's flat and Brenda's flat.
Praise God that the damage was minimal. Thanks to the leadership of Sonia and her quick thinking with a bucket, the focus of Lydia on the hose and available members of the KCM team working together, the facilities at the Jesus House live to tell the story.
The only inconvenience to the Jesus House was damage to the eating area for guests - which will need to be fixed as a matter of some urgency.
Thursday, 18 October 2012
Jiggers from Kyampisi
Over the past few days we've been learning about the 'must have' Kyampisi experience of Jiggers.
Jiggers are a little bit like Scabies. They are little parasites that burrow their way into an unsuspecting foot and lay eggs.
Once they're in the foot, the only way to get them out is to break the skin with something sharp and physically pull them out with a pin.
Apparently Jiggers like to burrow into the soles of your feet and the palms of your hand. I'm told you don't know you have them for about 3 days because it takes this long before you feel them eating your flesh - sounds charming!
Apparently Jiggers live in dust and are found in many places throughout Africa, one of which is Kyampisi. The safest way to ensure you don't pick up Jiggers is to wear shoes, preferably closed-in shoes.
Suffice to say, we're all wearing closed-in shoes when we visit Kyampisi this afternoon for Bible study (which I'm taking).
Jiggers are a little bit like Scabies. They are little parasites that burrow their way into an unsuspecting foot and lay eggs.
Once they're in the foot, the only way to get them out is to break the skin with something sharp and physically pull them out with a pin.
Apparently Jiggers like to burrow into the soles of your feet and the palms of your hand. I'm told you don't know you have them for about 3 days because it takes this long before you feel them eating your flesh - sounds charming!
Apparently Jiggers live in dust and are found in many places throughout Africa, one of which is Kyampisi. The safest way to ensure you don't pick up Jiggers is to wear shoes, preferably closed-in shoes.
Suffice to say, we're all wearing closed-in shoes when we visit Kyampisi this afternoon for Bible study (which I'm taking).
Encounter with Ugandan Police
After a evening of shopping and browsing as a family at Oasis Shopping Centre last night, we drove home in the KCM 4WD to the Jesus House.
Little did we realise the 'fun' we were about to experience.
About 3 minutes into our return journey a young policeman (probably not more than 20 years old) stopped us in the middle of a round-about and asked us to pull over - which I reluctantly did!
To be honest, I was a little curious about the reason behind this inconvenience - was it a random breath test? did they realise that we didn't have working indicator lights on the 4WD? was I speeding? was it illegal to drive a child without a booster seat?
When I asked the policeman if there was a problem, he said he watched me turn at the lights at Jinga Road. When I asked him if there was a problem with the manner in which I did this, he said that I had broken the law. When I asked him how I had broken the law he pronounced that U-turns are illegal at traffic lights in Uganda.
I promptly apologised and explained that I was a new driver in Uganda and that in Australia it was a common practice to execute a U-turn at traffic lights (except if there is a sign disallowing it).
As the young policeman asked for my licence and started to write out a ticket, including a 40,000 shillings fine, a higher ranking policeman appeared at my window. I explained to him that we were new to Uganda, that we were here to help build a school and medical clinic at Kyampisi and I thought it was very unfair to issue me with a ticket for making a U-turn at traffic lights when I didn't realise it was illegal.
To cut a long story short, as the first policeman was checking out the KCM 4WD for defects, the second policeman issued me with a verbal caution.
Interestingly, the first policeman asked me to reverse back into the round-about (which I thought was very dangerous) to help get back into the flow of traffic. When I had executed the U-turn earlier at the Jinger Road traffic lights, there was only one other car at the intersection as it was about 9pm (which I think was a lot safer than reversing back into a round-about).
As we were discussing the infringement with the two policemen, a young boy scooted past on a pair of rollerblades hanging on to the back of a Borda Borda (again, very dangerous).
It seems consistency isn't really a big part of police enforcement in Uganda?
Little did we realise the 'fun' we were about to experience.
About 3 minutes into our return journey a young policeman (probably not more than 20 years old) stopped us in the middle of a round-about and asked us to pull over - which I reluctantly did!
To be honest, I was a little curious about the reason behind this inconvenience - was it a random breath test? did they realise that we didn't have working indicator lights on the 4WD? was I speeding? was it illegal to drive a child without a booster seat?
When I asked the policeman if there was a problem, he said he watched me turn at the lights at Jinga Road. When I asked him if there was a problem with the manner in which I did this, he said that I had broken the law. When I asked him how I had broken the law he pronounced that U-turns are illegal at traffic lights in Uganda.
I promptly apologised and explained that I was a new driver in Uganda and that in Australia it was a common practice to execute a U-turn at traffic lights (except if there is a sign disallowing it).
As the young policeman asked for my licence and started to write out a ticket, including a 40,000 shillings fine, a higher ranking policeman appeared at my window. I explained to him that we were new to Uganda, that we were here to help build a school and medical clinic at Kyampisi and I thought it was very unfair to issue me with a ticket for making a U-turn at traffic lights when I didn't realise it was illegal.
To cut a long story short, as the first policeman was checking out the KCM 4WD for defects, the second policeman issued me with a verbal caution.
Interestingly, the first policeman asked me to reverse back into the round-about (which I thought was very dangerous) to help get back into the flow of traffic. When I had executed the U-turn earlier at the Jinger Road traffic lights, there was only one other car at the intersection as it was about 9pm (which I think was a lot safer than reversing back into a round-about).
As we were discussing the infringement with the two policemen, a young boy scooted past on a pair of rollerblades hanging on to the back of a Borda Borda (again, very dangerous).
It seems consistency isn't really a big part of police enforcement in Uganda?
Monday, 15 October 2012
Funeral Service and Burial
After a full day of concreting, which in Africa also means filling plastic jerry cans with water from a nearby stream, Hannah and I joined Peter and probably 500 people at the funeral and burial service of an 84 year old lady named Kate from the Kyampisi church. Kate was a foundation member of Peter's church and much loved by the congregation. Her grand-daughter's name is Juliet and she has become a good friend of Hannah's. Juliet is also a leader in the Kyampisi Children's Choir.
While the full service was conducted in Lugandan, it was very obvious that it was a Christian ceremony as the Bible featured prominently as did beautiful singing (or worship to God as Peter whispered to me).
The final part of the service saw the wrapped body placed in the coffin, the coffin nailed closed and us walk behind it to the burial plot - in the Kate's back yard (amongst the banana, coffee mango and pawpaw trees).
After the wrapped coffin (in a white sheet) was carefully lowered into the ground (probably about half as deep as in Australia) family members were invited to drop ash on the coffin. Following this, 5 strong trunks were placed over the pit followed by corrugated iron sheets. Above this was placed wire mesh reinforced with strips of steel. Above this was added a hand mixed concrete (mixed as we watched).
After about a week, I understand the burial site will be finished - a neat coating of concrete will be added over the rough mix and Kate's name, her dates of birth and death and a cross will be inscribed in the cement.
Following the service we returned to the building site for some more concreting. Fortunately the mixer broke down and so we had to stop - today was a big day (8am-8pm).
The mix was 24 shovels of aggregate, 24 shovels of river sand, 1/2 a bag of cement and the right measure of water.
I'll share more about the building in tomorrow's blog - after a shower and a good sleep.
While the full service was conducted in Lugandan, it was very obvious that it was a Christian ceremony as the Bible featured prominently as did beautiful singing (or worship to God as Peter whispered to me).
The final part of the service saw the wrapped body placed in the coffin, the coffin nailed closed and us walk behind it to the burial plot - in the Kate's back yard (amongst the banana, coffee mango and pawpaw trees).
After the wrapped coffin (in a white sheet) was carefully lowered into the ground (probably about half as deep as in Australia) family members were invited to drop ash on the coffin. Following this, 5 strong trunks were placed over the pit followed by corrugated iron sheets. Above this was placed wire mesh reinforced with strips of steel. Above this was added a hand mixed concrete (mixed as we watched).
After about a week, I understand the burial site will be finished - a neat coating of concrete will be added over the rough mix and Kate's name, her dates of birth and death and a cross will be inscribed in the cement.
Following the service we returned to the building site for some more concreting. Fortunately the mixer broke down and so we had to stop - today was a big day (8am-8pm).
The mix was 24 shovels of aggregate, 24 shovels of river sand, 1/2 a bag of cement and the right measure of water.
I'll share more about the building in tomorrow's blog - after a shower and a good sleep.
Saturday, 13 October 2012
African Cup Soccer Qualifying
Today (Saturday) saw the boys of KCM attend the African Cup Qualifying match between Uganda and Zambia.
I don't think I've ever been a part of a crowd as vocal and fanatical as I was today. In addition to this, I don't think I've ever seen as many police (including riot police) in one place at any one time. It certainly helped give a sense of order and security.
Four hours of electric atmosphere (including pre game routines and entertainment) came down to a penalty shoot out and ultimately one kick. Sadly about 50,000 Ugandan fans walked away absolutely devastated. Uganda actually played the better of the two teams (and won the game) but due to the fact that they lost their earlier game against Zambia (in Zambia) the points for and against were actually level and the outcome needed to be decided by a penalty shoot out.
The final score in the penalty shoot out was 9-8 to Zambia.
We sat in the general admission section of Mandela National Stadium. The fans were very passionate, very loud and I think every one of them was wearing a Uganda Cranes Jersey, either yellow, red or black (the colours of the Ugandan flag).
When the soccer ball came into the attacking half of the field (which was the case probably 65% of the game, the crowd cheered. When the ball came within 25 meters of the goal and it looked like they might score, the crowd collectively held their breath. When the Ugandan Cranes actually scored a goal the crowd rose to their feet and made such a loud noise that I stuck a finger in my ears. People were dancing around and blowing horns and whistles and picking up the person beside them. The emotion was raw and spontaneous. When the team lost the penalty shoot out the crowd was silenced and collectively stood up and walked out of the stadium. The mood was very heavy.
Interestingly there were a few scuffles as we walked down to where we caught our Borda-Borda. As I walked, I kept a very close eye on Sam, from the KCM team. He told me that the scuffles were between those pick pocketing and those with something to pick pocket. It was fascinating to see how the crowd worked together to catch the thief and notify the police where he was.
Our trip home on the Borda-Borda was a little slow because we had three passengers riding with the driver.
I don't think I've ever been a part of a crowd as vocal and fanatical as I was today. In addition to this, I don't think I've ever seen as many police (including riot police) in one place at any one time. It certainly helped give a sense of order and security.
Four hours of electric atmosphere (including pre game routines and entertainment) came down to a penalty shoot out and ultimately one kick. Sadly about 50,000 Ugandan fans walked away absolutely devastated. Uganda actually played the better of the two teams (and won the game) but due to the fact that they lost their earlier game against Zambia (in Zambia) the points for and against were actually level and the outcome needed to be decided by a penalty shoot out.
The final score in the penalty shoot out was 9-8 to Zambia.
We sat in the general admission section of Mandela National Stadium. The fans were very passionate, very loud and I think every one of them was wearing a Uganda Cranes Jersey, either yellow, red or black (the colours of the Ugandan flag).
When the soccer ball came into the attacking half of the field (which was the case probably 65% of the game, the crowd cheered. When the ball came within 25 meters of the goal and it looked like they might score, the crowd collectively held their breath. When the Ugandan Cranes actually scored a goal the crowd rose to their feet and made such a loud noise that I stuck a finger in my ears. People were dancing around and blowing horns and whistles and picking up the person beside them. The emotion was raw and spontaneous. When the team lost the penalty shoot out the crowd was silenced and collectively stood up and walked out of the stadium. The mood was very heavy.
Interestingly there were a few scuffles as we walked down to where we caught our Borda-Borda. As I walked, I kept a very close eye on Sam, from the KCM team. He told me that the scuffles were between those pick pocketing and those with something to pick pocket. It was fascinating to see how the crowd worked together to catch the thief and notify the police where he was.
Our trip home on the Borda-Borda was a little slow because we had three passengers riding with the driver.
Project Update
So far we've allocated funds to the following projects with KCM:
1. laying the ground floor slab for three primary classrooms at the new Kyampisi International Christian School
2. erecting a corrugated tin roof on the multi-purpose ministry centre
3. purchasing teacher resources for the current Kyampisi school
4. building a well for the Kyampisi community
5. purchasing a front door for the church, a lockable door for the church office and resources for the Jesus House
6. repairing a few issues with the KCM 4WD.
While some of these projects will be completed over the next 4-6 weeks, others have already been finalised.
There are a number of other projects that we are still negotiating with KCM. These include:
1. laying the slab for the new Medical Clinic being established on the adjoining block to the new school.
2. establishing business ventures with members of the Kyampisi community.
3. mentoring the current teaching staff and developing administrative systems with the current Headmistress.
4. cooking with local families.
We are also planning to work with Watoto (in their schools and babies homes) and link up with Gideons International and the local branch of the Association of Christian Schools International.
1. laying the ground floor slab for three primary classrooms at the new Kyampisi International Christian School
2. erecting a corrugated tin roof on the multi-purpose ministry centre
3. purchasing teacher resources for the current Kyampisi school
4. building a well for the Kyampisi community
5. purchasing a front door for the church, a lockable door for the church office and resources for the Jesus House
6. repairing a few issues with the KCM 4WD.
While some of these projects will be completed over the next 4-6 weeks, others have already been finalised.
There are a number of other projects that we are still negotiating with KCM. These include:
1. laying the slab for the new Medical Clinic being established on the adjoining block to the new school.
2. establishing business ventures with members of the Kyampisi community.
3. mentoring the current teaching staff and developing administrative systems with the current Headmistress.
4. cooking with local families.
We are also planning to work with Watoto (in their schools and babies homes) and link up with Gideons International and the local branch of the Association of Christian Schools International.
Thursday, 11 October 2012
Building at Kyampisi 2
Filling the foundations of the multi-purpose centre with soil continues to be a significant part of our work at the moment. To be honest, I'm becoming a little tired of shoveling dirt into a wheelbarrow and dumping it 25 metres away - but without a bobcat, it is probably the only way to complete this task. I was pleased that we hired a small truck yesterday, and although we still had to fill it, each load was equivalent to more than 50 wheelbarrows. I can assure you that every efficiency is appreciated!
What I didn't realise until yesterday was that the piles of soil that we're moving weren't previously dumped by human means but by little ants - they are actually disused ant hills. On further clarification it seems they were actually poisoned (weeks ago) to eradicate the ants in readiness for us to use the soil.
Today we undertook another type of building, a renovating job. We added a verandah to a little old house owned by a little old man. It's all part of KCMs program of working within the community to transform the community. It sits alongside projects such as fixing existing infrastructure and establishing business ventures such as building pig pens and buying pigs.
To be completely honest, I didn't actually help build the verandah as I was busy with some locals trying to get out of a sticky situation. As we had lots of rain, the dirt track was very boggy and despite my best intentions and careful maneuvering we got bogged. To cut a long story short, about an hour later we managed to make our way to drier ground (amidst cheering and clapping from the local children).
The day finished with Bible Study at the Kyampisi church. I continued on with Peter's theme from the previous Sunday and focused on 1 Peter 2:9 where we are encouraged 'to show forth the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvellous light'. I used the illustration of a talking flower (who was previously a seed living in darkness under the ground but is now showing forth the praises of God who called it upwards into the light of day). The locals seemed to appreciate the message.
What I didn't realise until yesterday was that the piles of soil that we're moving weren't previously dumped by human means but by little ants - they are actually disused ant hills. On further clarification it seems they were actually poisoned (weeks ago) to eradicate the ants in readiness for us to use the soil.
Today we undertook another type of building, a renovating job. We added a verandah to a little old house owned by a little old man. It's all part of KCMs program of working within the community to transform the community. It sits alongside projects such as fixing existing infrastructure and establishing business ventures such as building pig pens and buying pigs.
To be completely honest, I didn't actually help build the verandah as I was busy with some locals trying to get out of a sticky situation. As we had lots of rain, the dirt track was very boggy and despite my best intentions and careful maneuvering we got bogged. To cut a long story short, about an hour later we managed to make our way to drier ground (amidst cheering and clapping from the local children).
The day finished with Bible Study at the Kyampisi church. I continued on with Peter's theme from the previous Sunday and focused on 1 Peter 2:9 where we are encouraged 'to show forth the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvellous light'. I used the illustration of a talking flower (who was previously a seed living in darkness under the ground but is now showing forth the praises of God who called it upwards into the light of day). The locals seemed to appreciate the message.
Tuesday, 9 October 2012
Sanyu Babies Home
Today (Tuesday) saw us drive to Sanyu Babies Home in the centre of Kampala. This will be a regular commitment every Tuesday morning from 7.30am.
When we arrived, I was asked to strip the cots and re-make them with clean sheets and blankets. After this, I hung out bucket-fulls of clean clothes and sheets. Honestly the lines were 20 meters long and there were at least 6 of them!
While I was doing this Sonia, Hannah and Lydia were cleaning, changing and feeding about 25 babies - in an assembly line fashion! Eli was just in awe of so many babies and couldn't really understand why we were there. One of Sonia's quotes for the day, "I've never seen so much baby poo" and "I'm glad they issued me with plastic gloves".
After doing all this, we enjoyed about an hour just playing with the babies and toddlers. They were very cute and very cuddly!
When we got back to the car, we realised that it wouldn't start. Peter organised for a taxi to pick us up. As Ugandan taxis are mini buses and accommodate 12 passengers, we had heaps of room to spread out.
We drove home via Garden City Shopping Complex. We bought some more Rwenzori water and some snacks.
When we arrived, I was asked to strip the cots and re-make them with clean sheets and blankets. After this, I hung out bucket-fulls of clean clothes and sheets. Honestly the lines were 20 meters long and there were at least 6 of them!
While I was doing this Sonia, Hannah and Lydia were cleaning, changing and feeding about 25 babies - in an assembly line fashion! Eli was just in awe of so many babies and couldn't really understand why we were there. One of Sonia's quotes for the day, "I've never seen so much baby poo" and "I'm glad they issued me with plastic gloves".
After doing all this, we enjoyed about an hour just playing with the babies and toddlers. They were very cute and very cuddly!
When we got back to the car, we realised that it wouldn't start. Peter organised for a taxi to pick us up. As Ugandan taxis are mini buses and accommodate 12 passengers, we had heaps of room to spread out.
We drove home via Garden City Shopping Complex. We bought some more Rwenzori water and some snacks.
Building at Kyampisi 1
Yesterday (Monday) saw us begin our building work at Kyampisi.
To begin, Peter and I drove to the local hardware to buy reo, wire, cement and sand. To cut a long story short, Peter asked me if I would be in a position to pay for it all, which although I was willing to do, I didn't have the required 3,000,000 shillings in cash (and the hardware store wouldn't take VISA). I've organised the money today and we'll pay for it all tomorrow.
Initially we're working on the foundations (initially ground floor and then first floor) for the primary classrooms at the new Kyampisi International Christian School - a two-story block consisting of six classrooms (three upstairs and three downstairs, each with a verandah on the eastern side).
This decision was made as the Kyampisi community had already commenced the ground floor foundations - excavation work and initial rocks.
I spent time smashing huge boulders (with a sledge hammer) and compacting them into the excavation area in readiness for smaller pebbles, sand, reo and cement.
Once we've finished the ground floor slab I understand we'll be building pillars to support the elevated slab (first floor) which we'll also lay.
As the Lord provides, KCM plans to erect four of these double story blocks - two side by side and two opposite the initial two (with a playground area in between).
The second project was unknown to us before we visited Kyampisi, having said that, it seems to be well needed. Until KCM build their main church, probably in 2014 (depending on funds) they are limited to a shady area under the trees or the children's chapel that was erected in 2010, as a place of worship. Interestingly, Peter separates the children and the adults on a Sunday morning and chooses to keep the children in their chapel. Peter has a vision for a large roofed area to be built behind the current children's chapel that will act as a multi-purpose area (including a place of worship until the main church is built). KCM have recently built a retaining wall to build up the foundation (as the area has a significant slope).
Although we spent many hours filling this area with soil yesterday, we still have loads more soil to move in order to fill the area completely so we can lay a concrete slab - probably a similar process to the ground floor slab of the classroom, although not quite as solid as the multi-purpose structure is only one level.
For the record, we forgot to take our gloves yesterday - and as we were working pretty hard in hot conditions, we started to earn a flew blisters. One of the locals helping us had a pair of gloves which he shared with me - given that they had holes all through them, they didn't really make a big difference - but the thought was greatly appreciated!
Once we finished our day of manual labour we enjoyed a staff meeting with Peter and the four teachers from the Kyampisi school. They outlined the many resources critically needed at the school - we agreed to take them shopping next Saturday to buy what we can. We also agreed to buy them staff uniforms.
After a full day we drove back to the Jesus House. To be honest, I prefer driving in the daytime. Driving at night in Uganda is very difficult as there are Borda Borda's driving in each direction, people walking in all directions and cars coming towards you (and overtaking you) with high beam lights switched on and you really can't see where you're driving. It isn't fun because you're very conscious that you could hit someone as there are no street lights.
To begin, Peter and I drove to the local hardware to buy reo, wire, cement and sand. To cut a long story short, Peter asked me if I would be in a position to pay for it all, which although I was willing to do, I didn't have the required 3,000,000 shillings in cash (and the hardware store wouldn't take VISA). I've organised the money today and we'll pay for it all tomorrow.
Initially we're working on the foundations (initially ground floor and then first floor) for the primary classrooms at the new Kyampisi International Christian School - a two-story block consisting of six classrooms (three upstairs and three downstairs, each with a verandah on the eastern side).
This decision was made as the Kyampisi community had already commenced the ground floor foundations - excavation work and initial rocks.
I spent time smashing huge boulders (with a sledge hammer) and compacting them into the excavation area in readiness for smaller pebbles, sand, reo and cement.
Once we've finished the ground floor slab I understand we'll be building pillars to support the elevated slab (first floor) which we'll also lay.
As the Lord provides, KCM plans to erect four of these double story blocks - two side by side and two opposite the initial two (with a playground area in between).
The second project was unknown to us before we visited Kyampisi, having said that, it seems to be well needed. Until KCM build their main church, probably in 2014 (depending on funds) they are limited to a shady area under the trees or the children's chapel that was erected in 2010, as a place of worship. Interestingly, Peter separates the children and the adults on a Sunday morning and chooses to keep the children in their chapel. Peter has a vision for a large roofed area to be built behind the current children's chapel that will act as a multi-purpose area (including a place of worship until the main church is built). KCM have recently built a retaining wall to build up the foundation (as the area has a significant slope).
Although we spent many hours filling this area with soil yesterday, we still have loads more soil to move in order to fill the area completely so we can lay a concrete slab - probably a similar process to the ground floor slab of the classroom, although not quite as solid as the multi-purpose structure is only one level.
For the record, we forgot to take our gloves yesterday - and as we were working pretty hard in hot conditions, we started to earn a flew blisters. One of the locals helping us had a pair of gloves which he shared with me - given that they had holes all through them, they didn't really make a big difference - but the thought was greatly appreciated!
Once we finished our day of manual labour we enjoyed a staff meeting with Peter and the four teachers from the Kyampisi school. They outlined the many resources critically needed at the school - we agreed to take them shopping next Saturday to buy what we can. We also agreed to buy them staff uniforms.
After a full day we drove back to the Jesus House. To be honest, I prefer driving in the daytime. Driving at night in Uganda is very difficult as there are Borda Borda's driving in each direction, people walking in all directions and cars coming towards you (and overtaking you) with high beam lights switched on and you really can't see where you're driving. It isn't fun because you're very conscious that you could hit someone as there are no street lights.
Sunday, 7 October 2012
Worship at Kyampisi
When we arrived at Kyampisi this morning (Sunday) Peter asked me to take his car and pick up Nalongo from her home. She was so excited when she saw the car pull up outside her home as she's not able to walk to church as it's too far. As I was leaving I noticed her neighbour, Deo, and invited him to come to church next week. He agreed.
Church had already started when Nalongo and I arrived. The congregation were fully engaged in singing vibrant praise to the Lord. After some time, Peter welcomed visitors, initially locals, then us as a family. After being introduced I spoke briefly about us all being one in Jesus and that we were very excited about being a part of the team at KCM.
One of the highlights of the service was the item by the Kyampisi Children's Choir. The choir, consisting of about twenty five children, sing with such clarity and enthusiasm (not that dissimilar to the Watoto Children's Choir).
Peter preached from Leviticus 25, especially verses 8-13 where we read about the Year of Jubilee. He spoke about the importance of personal holiness and forgiveness and atonement with each other and with God, especially at this time in the history of Uganda. He also challenged us to take this time for personal renewal and seeking a deeper understanding of God's purpose for our life. He linked all this to the 50 years of Independence celebrations that Uganda will celebrate this week, October 9. He also honoured those in attendance who were 50 years or more in age.
Peter also tied in the verse from 2 Peter where Paul writes that 'we are a royal priesthood and a holy nation - a people belonging to God who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light'. He also encouraged us to claim the authority we have as Christians to declare liberty to the people of Uganda.
Church had already started when Nalongo and I arrived. The congregation were fully engaged in singing vibrant praise to the Lord. After some time, Peter welcomed visitors, initially locals, then us as a family. After being introduced I spoke briefly about us all being one in Jesus and that we were very excited about being a part of the team at KCM.
One of the highlights of the service was the item by the Kyampisi Children's Choir. The choir, consisting of about twenty five children, sing with such clarity and enthusiasm (not that dissimilar to the Watoto Children's Choir).
Peter preached from Leviticus 25, especially verses 8-13 where we read about the Year of Jubilee. He spoke about the importance of personal holiness and forgiveness and atonement with each other and with God, especially at this time in the history of Uganda. He also challenged us to take this time for personal renewal and seeking a deeper understanding of God's purpose for our life. He linked all this to the 50 years of Independence celebrations that Uganda will celebrate this week, October 9. He also honoured those in attendance who were 50 years or more in age.
Peter also tied in the verse from 2 Peter where Paul writes that 'we are a royal priesthood and a holy nation - a people belonging to God who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light'. He also encouraged us to claim the authority we have as Christians to declare liberty to the people of Uganda.
Staff Meeting & Driving in Kampala
Today (Saturday) saw Sonia and I participate in our first KCM Staff Meeting. Peter led the team in a devotion around the topic of 'unity' (based on 2 Corinthians 12) after Sam led us all in a time of singing and worship.
Peter explained that everyone on the KCM team had been on a forced two-week holiday, the first break many had had for well over twelve months. Apparently holidays aren't a part of the Ugandan culture as the expectation if you have a job is to work - usually 6 days a week. Peter wanted his team to have a time of refreshment and rejuvenation prior to us coming as a family. Peter asked us (as Muzungus) to elaborate on the importance of holidays and the significance behind taking a well-deserved break every now and then.
Peter also introduced team members and outlined the roles that each fulfilled. He then outlined the program for the week and spoke of the importance of everyone being on time - something African's aren't famous for! We closed the staff meeting with singing, worship and an open prayer time.
After lunch I drove the family to Game Shopping Centre - this was my first experience of driving in Kampala traffic. To be honest, you have to be very careful, but at the same time, you have to be quite aggressive or you'll get left behind and the drivers behind you get quite upset. Another feature is that there is usually three lanes of traffic in each lane (in both directions) and lots of Borda Borda's weaving between the traffic (not to mention the pedestrians crossing the road or walking along the edge of the road). On our return trip we were caught in a traffic jam - after about 30 minutes we started to move (courtesy of some clever police who encouraged us all to work together). On our way home Hannah and Lydia travelled in the back tray of the 4WD with Sam. This proved to be a good experience for the girls as it's something that can't be done in Australia.
Game Shopping Centre includes Shop Rite Grocery Store and Supermarket, Game all-purpose Store (which sells white-goods, sports equipment, groceries, alcohol, hardware and toys), a number of speciality shops, banks and a coffee lounge.
Peter explained that everyone on the KCM team had been on a forced two-week holiday, the first break many had had for well over twelve months. Apparently holidays aren't a part of the Ugandan culture as the expectation if you have a job is to work - usually 6 days a week. Peter wanted his team to have a time of refreshment and rejuvenation prior to us coming as a family. Peter asked us (as Muzungus) to elaborate on the importance of holidays and the significance behind taking a well-deserved break every now and then.
Peter also introduced team members and outlined the roles that each fulfilled. He then outlined the program for the week and spoke of the importance of everyone being on time - something African's aren't famous for! We closed the staff meeting with singing, worship and an open prayer time.
After lunch I drove the family to Game Shopping Centre - this was my first experience of driving in Kampala traffic. To be honest, you have to be very careful, but at the same time, you have to be quite aggressive or you'll get left behind and the drivers behind you get quite upset. Another feature is that there is usually three lanes of traffic in each lane (in both directions) and lots of Borda Borda's weaving between the traffic (not to mention the pedestrians crossing the road or walking along the edge of the road). On our return trip we were caught in a traffic jam - after about 30 minutes we started to move (courtesy of some clever police who encouraged us all to work together). On our way home Hannah and Lydia travelled in the back tray of the 4WD with Sam. This proved to be a good experience for the girls as it's something that can't be done in Australia.
Game Shopping Centre includes Shop Rite Grocery Store and Supermarket, Game all-purpose Store (which sells white-goods, sports equipment, groceries, alcohol, hardware and toys), a number of speciality shops, banks and a coffee lounge.
Friday, 5 October 2012
Nalongo
Today (Friday) we were privileged to meet Nalongo, which translated from Lugandan means 'mother of twins'. She is an 89 year old lady living at Kyampisi. She lives in very basic accommodation, looks after her 5 grandchildren (their parents have both died) and has been of deep encouragement to Peter's commitment to Kyampisi. She says she has a golden front door, provided by God, to keep wild animals and intruders out of her house - in reality, it is an old and torn sheet. Her faith is very strong and extremely inspiring. She epitomises the reality of many Africans - she had very little from an earthly perspective but a great deal spiritually.
After visiting Nalongo, Peter introduced us to a practicing witchdoctor at Kyampisi. Peter and I visited his consulting room, a little square building (made of clay bricks) with a tin roof - unlike the witch doctors shrine at Mpigi which was a big round building (also made of bricks) with a grass roof. Inside his room was an assortment of plastic bottles, each containing herbal remedies. There was also a collection of dry leaves that he mixed with the herbs when treating patients. On the wall was a Certificate issued by the Uganda Traditional Healers and Herbalists Association. It's a little unclear to me the difference between a traditional healer and a witch doctor. I'll keep asking questions about this.
After praying with the witchdoctor, Peter took us to the Kyampisi church where we met with Robert, the builder engaged by KCM. We discussed the Master Plan for the community of Kyampisi, including the new school, the new church, new clinic and other general infrastructure. The vision of community transformation is extremely exciting.
Prior to driving back to the Jesus House, we visited Prayer Mountain at Kyampisi. Prayer Mountain is the highest piece of land as far as the eye can see and is littered with huge boulders of granite. Peter is wanting to buy this land and develop it as a House of Prayer. The view in all directions from Prayer Mountain is breath-taking - looking over Kyampisi is especially significant.
I drove back to Kampala on this occasion. Apart from the clutch getting stuck and the amount if pot holes in the road, the journey was quite uneventful. Peter bought us roasted sweet potato and roasted maize (corn) to tie us over until dinner.
Dinner was rice, pea stew and a potato side dish.
After visiting Nalongo, Peter introduced us to a practicing witchdoctor at Kyampisi. Peter and I visited his consulting room, a little square building (made of clay bricks) with a tin roof - unlike the witch doctors shrine at Mpigi which was a big round building (also made of bricks) with a grass roof. Inside his room was an assortment of plastic bottles, each containing herbal remedies. There was also a collection of dry leaves that he mixed with the herbs when treating patients. On the wall was a Certificate issued by the Uganda Traditional Healers and Herbalists Association. It's a little unclear to me the difference between a traditional healer and a witch doctor. I'll keep asking questions about this.
After praying with the witchdoctor, Peter took us to the Kyampisi church where we met with Robert, the builder engaged by KCM. We discussed the Master Plan for the community of Kyampisi, including the new school, the new church, new clinic and other general infrastructure. The vision of community transformation is extremely exciting.
Prior to driving back to the Jesus House, we visited Prayer Mountain at Kyampisi. Prayer Mountain is the highest piece of land as far as the eye can see and is littered with huge boulders of granite. Peter is wanting to buy this land and develop it as a House of Prayer. The view in all directions from Prayer Mountain is breath-taking - looking over Kyampisi is especially significant.
I drove back to Kampala on this occasion. Apart from the clutch getting stuck and the amount if pot holes in the road, the journey was quite uneventful. Peter bought us roasted sweet potato and roasted maize (corn) to tie us over until dinner.
Dinner was rice, pea stew and a potato side dish.
Child Sacrifice Documentary
The past two days have involved members of the KCM team (including Peter and me) working beside a TV crew from the Netherlands filming a documentary on the practice of Child Sacrifice.
Following an Orientation visit of Kyampisi village (including the current and proposed schools, current and proposed churches and mingling with members of the community) Peter, Dianna and I drove to the main Kampala hospital to meet with senior Police and Medical personnel at the city morgue. This included the Chief of Pathology and Forensics who spoke about their experiences with victims of sacrifice, both children and adults. The stories shared were incredibly tragic, but they need to be heard by the international community if the practice of Child Sacrificing is to cease.
While we were in one of the offices (for probably two and a half hours) I lost count of how many dead bodies (each wrapped in blankets) were delivered to the morgue in the back of either private 4WDs or Police trucks. Once processed, including an identification process by family members, the body was placed in a coffin and taken by the family for burial.
To make the matter more of a statement, the Police Inspector said that this was usually the quietest time of the day. I certainly wouldn't want to be there when it was busy!
This morning saw us meet with His Lordship, Judge Lumik Mukasa of the High Court of Uganda. His office was pretty grand, especially by Ugandan standards. He made us very aware that we were in the presence of someone very special. When one member of our team referred to him as 'that man' he was quickly put in his place.
On the way to the High Court Peter's car ran out if diesel. As we were scheduled to meet Judge Mukasa we didn't have time to wait for a mechanic so we hopped on to a Borda Borda. While at first I thought this may prove to be a little scary, it was absolutely amazing. The driver was very careful as he weaved his way through traffic. To be honest, I really enjoyed the experience and felt very safe throughout the 30 minute journey. The experience cost 5000 schillings, or a little under $2.
On the side, the Leader of the Opposition Party was arrested today for leading a march against the current President. This resulted in some unrest on the streets just outside the High Court which was referred to riot police. We were very safe and there were no further incidents.
This afternoon saw us drive to Mpigi, a rural village about one and a half hours drive from Kampala, to interview a witch doctor. Interestingly the film crew was able to film him consulting with a patient in his shrine - a mother and her sick 2 year old child. It was quite confronting to hear how he called on the spirits and to see how he used beads and a live chicken as part of the occasion. The child's mother stayed with her throughout the ceremony, which proved comforting for both. Apparently the mother had previously been to a medical doctor but the treatment had failed. She was now seeking the treatment of a witch doctor. Part way through the ceremony, the witch doctor asked for money because the spirits were asking for it. The 30 minute ceremony finished with a ritual involving banana leaves and fire. I was pleased that there was an interpreter present as the whole ceremony was conducted in Lugandan.
While this was all taking place, Sonia, Hannah, Lydia and Eli enjoyed a quiet morning at the Jesus House with Brenda, Sam, Edwin, Medi and 'Nagua' and 'Mambo' the resident monkeys. After a rice with pea stew lunch they travelled to Kyampisi for their Orientation and Thursday afternoon Bible Study. They were thrilled to meet some of the children at the school and their respective teachers. The Kyampisi community was very welcoming of them and made everyone feel extremely special. The children of Kyampisi were especially excited to play with Lydia and Eli as we had told the principal that they would be attending Kyampisi School (on those days that suit) while we're living at the Jesus House.
Hannah enjoyed meeting Angel, a 14 year old girl who attends the school. They spoke about playing the piano as Angel wants to learn the piano.
Following an Orientation visit of Kyampisi village (including the current and proposed schools, current and proposed churches and mingling with members of the community) Peter, Dianna and I drove to the main Kampala hospital to meet with senior Police and Medical personnel at the city morgue. This included the Chief of Pathology and Forensics who spoke about their experiences with victims of sacrifice, both children and adults. The stories shared were incredibly tragic, but they need to be heard by the international community if the practice of Child Sacrificing is to cease.
While we were in one of the offices (for probably two and a half hours) I lost count of how many dead bodies (each wrapped in blankets) were delivered to the morgue in the back of either private 4WDs or Police trucks. Once processed, including an identification process by family members, the body was placed in a coffin and taken by the family for burial.
To make the matter more of a statement, the Police Inspector said that this was usually the quietest time of the day. I certainly wouldn't want to be there when it was busy!
This morning saw us meet with His Lordship, Judge Lumik Mukasa of the High Court of Uganda. His office was pretty grand, especially by Ugandan standards. He made us very aware that we were in the presence of someone very special. When one member of our team referred to him as 'that man' he was quickly put in his place.
On the way to the High Court Peter's car ran out if diesel. As we were scheduled to meet Judge Mukasa we didn't have time to wait for a mechanic so we hopped on to a Borda Borda. While at first I thought this may prove to be a little scary, it was absolutely amazing. The driver was very careful as he weaved his way through traffic. To be honest, I really enjoyed the experience and felt very safe throughout the 30 minute journey. The experience cost 5000 schillings, or a little under $2.
On the side, the Leader of the Opposition Party was arrested today for leading a march against the current President. This resulted in some unrest on the streets just outside the High Court which was referred to riot police. We were very safe and there were no further incidents.
This afternoon saw us drive to Mpigi, a rural village about one and a half hours drive from Kampala, to interview a witch doctor. Interestingly the film crew was able to film him consulting with a patient in his shrine - a mother and her sick 2 year old child. It was quite confronting to hear how he called on the spirits and to see how he used beads and a live chicken as part of the occasion. The child's mother stayed with her throughout the ceremony, which proved comforting for both. Apparently the mother had previously been to a medical doctor but the treatment had failed. She was now seeking the treatment of a witch doctor. Part way through the ceremony, the witch doctor asked for money because the spirits were asking for it. The 30 minute ceremony finished with a ritual involving banana leaves and fire. I was pleased that there was an interpreter present as the whole ceremony was conducted in Lugandan.
While this was all taking place, Sonia, Hannah, Lydia and Eli enjoyed a quiet morning at the Jesus House with Brenda, Sam, Edwin, Medi and 'Nagua' and 'Mambo' the resident monkeys. After a rice with pea stew lunch they travelled to Kyampisi for their Orientation and Thursday afternoon Bible Study. They were thrilled to meet some of the children at the school and their respective teachers. The Kyampisi community was very welcoming of them and made everyone feel extremely special. The children of Kyampisi were especially excited to play with Lydia and Eli as we had told the principal that they would be attending Kyampisi School (on those days that suit) while we're living at the Jesus House.
Hannah enjoyed meeting Angel, a 14 year old girl who attends the school. They spoke about playing the piano as Angel wants to learn the piano.
Tuesday, 2 October 2012
Meeting the KCM staff
It seems like today has become a day for meeting Kyampisi Childcare Ministry (KCM) staff.
Peter is the CEO and seems to have an oversight and mentoring role. He is the face of KCM and is the one who speaks on behalf of the ministry. He is a qualified Accountant who feels God had called him to serve the community of Kyampisi through the Board of KCM for a season.
We haven't met members of the KCM Board as yet, but are looking forward to this as God opens doors.
Dianna, Peter's sister, seems to act like his PA and Office Manager.
Shelin acts as the auditor and Business Manager for KCM.
Edith is responsible for the KCM Child Sponsorship Program and organising tours for working groups (safari tours and white water rafting).
Brenda is the resident cook and has served us very well, We've enjoyed omelette's for breakfast, rice with red bean stew for lunch and rice, roasted potatoes and bean stew for dinner. Brenda has also introduced us to ginger coffee - absolutely sensational.
Jeffrey is the security guard at the Jesus House. While we haven't seen his gun, I certainly wouldn't want to break into the compound as he's been charged with the responsibility to keep everyone safe.
Sam, Medi, Edwin and Colin seem to fill a need wherever there is one - gardening, driving and general maintenance. Sam is also the resident guitarist and leads the singing and worship at devotions. He is very talented and has an amazing voice. The singing at devotions is spontaneous and sweet - and in 3 part harmony!
Speaking about devotions, Peter has asked me to lead staff devotions each morning at 9am. He's also asked me to weave into these times Biblical teaching about personal responsibility in team membership and the importance of unity as a team.
Barbara is one of the teachers at the temporary KCM school at Kyampisi and also takes responsibility for the KCM Children's Choir. Peter and Barbara are setting up a recording studio at the Jesus House where they're hoping to record the next KCM Children's Choir CD.
While we've been hanging around building relationships today there has been a film crew working on the sequel to the BBC Documentary on Child Sacrificing. I think they're interviewing a Ugandan judge tomorrow (who was critical in the sentencing of local witch doctors) and a set of parents whose son was affected by the practice.
Thanks for reading this blog and thanks for your prayers.
Praise Points
1. Good health for us as a family
2. Receptiveness from the KCM staff to us as a family
3. Opening doors to sharing the message of Child Sacrificing to the international community
4. Deepening relationships with KCM staff
Talk later. God bless you.
Peter is the CEO and seems to have an oversight and mentoring role. He is the face of KCM and is the one who speaks on behalf of the ministry. He is a qualified Accountant who feels God had called him to serve the community of Kyampisi through the Board of KCM for a season.
We haven't met members of the KCM Board as yet, but are looking forward to this as God opens doors.
Dianna, Peter's sister, seems to act like his PA and Office Manager.
Shelin acts as the auditor and Business Manager for KCM.
Edith is responsible for the KCM Child Sponsorship Program and organising tours for working groups (safari tours and white water rafting).
Brenda is the resident cook and has served us very well, We've enjoyed omelette's for breakfast, rice with red bean stew for lunch and rice, roasted potatoes and bean stew for dinner. Brenda has also introduced us to ginger coffee - absolutely sensational.
Jeffrey is the security guard at the Jesus House. While we haven't seen his gun, I certainly wouldn't want to break into the compound as he's been charged with the responsibility to keep everyone safe.
Sam, Medi, Edwin and Colin seem to fill a need wherever there is one - gardening, driving and general maintenance. Sam is also the resident guitarist and leads the singing and worship at devotions. He is very talented and has an amazing voice. The singing at devotions is spontaneous and sweet - and in 3 part harmony!
Speaking about devotions, Peter has asked me to lead staff devotions each morning at 9am. He's also asked me to weave into these times Biblical teaching about personal responsibility in team membership and the importance of unity as a team.
Barbara is one of the teachers at the temporary KCM school at Kyampisi and also takes responsibility for the KCM Children's Choir. Peter and Barbara are setting up a recording studio at the Jesus House where they're hoping to record the next KCM Children's Choir CD.
While we've been hanging around building relationships today there has been a film crew working on the sequel to the BBC Documentary on Child Sacrificing. I think they're interviewing a Ugandan judge tomorrow (who was critical in the sentencing of local witch doctors) and a set of parents whose son was affected by the practice.
Thanks for reading this blog and thanks for your prayers.
Praise Points
1. Good health for us as a family
2. Receptiveness from the KCM staff to us as a family
3. Opening doors to sharing the message of Child Sacrificing to the international community
4. Deepening relationships with KCM staff
Talk later. God bless you.
Settling in to the Jesus House
After a long flight via Singapore and Dubai we arrived at Entebbe International Airport in Uganda.
We were very pleased with the mild climate (mid-twenties) after high thirties in Singapore and low forties in Dubai.
We were picked up at the airport by Edwin and Colin. As we were suffering a bit of jet-lag (probably from watching a few too many movies on the plane) the drive to our new Ugandan home, the Jesus House, was fairly quiet - Sonia was especially surprised by the reality of life in Uganda.
After unpacking our clothes and establishing who was sleeping where, we enjoyed egg and noodles for dinner.
The Jesus House is really three houses. One house includes accommodation for singles and the main administration area. The second house has been set up for families and the third house is where Kyampisi Childcare staff sleep.
Our family unit is quite spacious with a combined toilet/shower and separate lounge room.
We were very pleased with the mild climate (mid-twenties) after high thirties in Singapore and low forties in Dubai.
We were picked up at the airport by Edwin and Colin. As we were suffering a bit of jet-lag (probably from watching a few too many movies on the plane) the drive to our new Ugandan home, the Jesus House, was fairly quiet - Sonia was especially surprised by the reality of life in Uganda.
After unpacking our clothes and establishing who was sleeping where, we enjoyed egg and noodles for dinner.
The Jesus House is really three houses. One house includes accommodation for singles and the main administration area. The second house has been set up for families and the third house is where Kyampisi Childcare staff sleep.
Our family unit is quite spacious with a combined toilet/shower and separate lounge room.
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