Bukoba, Tanzania: Starting Duties in Bukoba

This week, the COSAD Tanzania team kicked in to high gear at our local office since Smart and I returned from Dar es Salaam. Smart, Monica, Edson, Antifona and I met earlier in the week to talk about the dynamics of our new team, set goals, and go over basic responsibilities. We ran plenty of errands in town, giving me one last chance to get accustomed to Bukoba before Smart leaves. Thankfully, the team he is leaving me with is fully equipped and willing to help me adjust to my new life here- professionally and personally. Below is a picture of Antifona and I practicing English/ Swahili in my home. These have become daily lessons, usually lasting all day as I travel into town or the office. Monica also helps. The English/ Swahili phrase book is possibly the most valuable item I brought with me!

We spent a few afternoons going to two villages introducing the new COSAD team to the the women/leaders, and also informing them of what we will be doing in the next few months. On Tuesday, we went to the village Smart grew up in as a young child. I saw his old house, and meet his maternal grandmother. It was incredibly humbling; quite an honor.

Saturday, I spent the day with Mama Fatu and her daughters at the house, rested and regrouped. Mama Fatu helped me cook beans and rice, and I played soccer with Flavia, her daughter.