Day 9 Yesterday was our last full day in the Gambia. As our container had only arrived late the previous day, we still had a lot to do before leaving. After a short night the question remained if we would be able to get everything done by noon … African or European timing? …
Day 8 Today as well we split up our group. Annelies, Lieve and Charlotte went to the health centre in Sifoe. Annelies distributed medicine with the nurse and Lieve treated a finger that had been cut off by a machete. Next we went to a wholesaler’s with the head of the centre to buy…
Day 7 Today we’re splitting up the group for the first time in a long time! Ingrid and Annelies left with Kalifa to try to do something about our container. They went to and fro between the Ministry of public health and the harbour. They filled out several forms and had long conversations. It…
Day 6 Day six and still no container. This container with educational materials and medical supplies was supposed to be on site by the time we arrived. We were told several problems had cropped up and nobody seemed to know when they would be solved. This afternoon we had a crisis meeting to find out…
Day 5 Today we got up early to be on time for the start of our school day at the Hope Nursery School. We planned a morning of corner work for all classes. This way the teachers could learn about different ways of teaching and playing. Amongst other things we did drawing, cutting and building…
Day 4 Today we had a meeting with the headmaster of the Hope Nursery School to discuss his long term plans for the school. He presented several ideas to improve the school in the future. We plan to incorporate these ideas in our own discussions to come to an ideal long term plan. Next…
Day 3 Today we again went to work at the Hope Nursery school. First we sorted the toys and the books we found in the dream class and the school library. A few children offered their help and proved to be diligent workers. At lunch time we were treated to an excellent meal. Kalifa’s…
Day 2 Our first stop today was the Hope Nursery School. We were pleasantly surprised by the opulent vegetable garden. The difference from last year was enormous! There were mango and papaya trees, cucumbers and okras. The okra plant is called “old lady fingers” by the locals. The similarity is striking. Next we were…
Day 1 Today is the day. After waiting for a year, we could again leave for the Gambia. The weather report announced 38°. What a difference to Belgium. All ready to go the 9 of us and our 18 filled to the brim suitcases arrived at Zaventem airport this morning. A new adventure awaits.…
Counting down to our departure 2020 We are done with everything we could take care of from Belgium. * We bought and collected all kinds of useful things (medicine, educational materials, sports equipment, bicycles for toddlers, medical equipment) and sent those ahead in a container. * Gambian workmen have done Infrastructure works at the Hope…