November

It is now a month since we left Hamilton and such a lot has happened!  In Victoria no new cases of covid19 and the beginnings of opening up to the rest of the country.  Now we could possibly visit Tasmania we are on the wrong continent!

At Olkokola there are 38 new students with a wide range of disabilities and educational experiences.  The only common thing is no English! So I am being stretched and having to relearn quickly all the Kiswahili I’ve forgotten in seven months lack of use.  The younger students in particular talk to me in rapid Swahili and are nonplussed that I do not understand.  For staff meetings I rely on google translate and prepare what I need to say.  Usually we are able to communicate well.  But in the classrooms sometimes I just have to hope for the best! It seems to work.

All the students have done a mathematics diagnostic test - 16 questions in 20 minutes ranging from counting to applied problem solving involving fractions - and those who are capable introduced to the program of individualised learning.  They are also able to use the library to read and borrow books. We are away for the next three weeks and the students will be going home for Christmas just as we get back.  Small group classes on specific topics will start in January.

We had a quick trip to Kenya to Amboseli NP last weekend.  That meant crossing the border at Namanga where the Corner Hotel is to be found. (Photographed for our David who worked at its namesake in Richmond.)  

The park has an extensive wetland system and is home to many birds both dryland and water birds including migrants from the northern hemisphere that travel to Africa for the winter. We had a lovely time - very relaxing and we* saw 16o species of bird.  Also many hippos, antelopes and elephants.  No giraffes were seen though they are supposed to be there.  Luckily we saw them along the road up to Namanga so I was happy.

Next week we travel south to Iringa, Ruaha NP and Mikumi NP among other places.  Steve has written a full report on the Kenya trip and will do the same for the trip south.  You’ll find it here.

More soon, love from Jenny

* well, Steve did and told me about them!