Drought

I am back in Arusha until Sunday and will use some time to get caught up on journal entries. First the setting, which is a harsh backdrop, and then I will back track to my arrival in Longido.

Longido cries out for water and food. It is impossible not to feel compassion for every living thing you see. How long has this area been without rain? Eight months? Ten months? It is evident everywhere.

The Maasai have taken their cattle many miles away in search of sustenance. Still carcasses litter the landscape, having never made it to their destination. Dozens die each day. Closer to home goats must stretch higher and higher to reach anything green on the bushes. Dogs are lethargic. Chickens find few scraps on the ground. And baboons who, I am told by the Cultural Tourism guide, survive because they can eat anything available, are dying on Mt. Longido.

But the people, the amazing resilient people of Longido and Kimokouwa rise again each day and look hopefully skyward. They are used to being put to the test. It takes the women longer and longer to return from Mt. Longido with water. Still they make the journey each day, colourful buckets atop their heads and babies on their backs. Everyone walks a little slower.

Trucks from Arusha carrying water arrive regularly now. It is important that the schools are able to provide food and water for those in their care. Enterprising citizens with trucks arrive from the city selling blue containers filled with water – 20 liters for 200 shillings (about 20 cents.) A caravan of government cars toured the area and took little time concluding that food aid was needed. Sacks of maize arrived two days after the visit, enough to help people in the short term. The people pay 60 shillings a kilo – less than 10 cents - to help offset the cost of transportation. Dr. Steven Kiruswa has prepared and sent a proposal for assistance to every relief organization he knows.

All of this has meant that our project plans be adjusted and resources re-directed. Flexibility is essential. I am both fortunate and embarrassed to have options these people cannot imagine.